THE 8 KEYS FOR A SUCCESSFUL HIKE

Hiking is much more than just a simple hobby. Hiking is the most efficient, reasonable and enjoyable way of discovering the world, whilst boosting the physical fitness. However, a decent trek can’t be improvised. Discover how to prepare for your trekking adventure in 8 steps.

1) Start training as soon as possible  

Whatever the type of your trekking adventure, the best way to prepare is to train. You should start by short distances and gradually work up to the length you’ll be trekking on your hike. Cardiovascular exercise is an essential component of training for hiking. Any cardio is good cardio. Think running, swimming, cycling. You will soon notice the benefits of these cardio exercises.

2) How to prepare your feet for hiking

Don’t take the risk to ruin your long distance walking experience with damaged feet. Start preparing your feet as soon as possible. You need to moisturise your feet with an anti friction cream or moisturising cream, starting 3 weeks before the trek. It will strengthen the elasticity of your skin and prevent the formation of blisters. It’s critical to take care of your feet and to understand how to keep them happy.

3) Eat healthy before a trek

You probably have an idea of what you will eat during your trekking adventure, but what about during training? Your food preparation for a short or long hike should be taken as seriously as the rest of your physical preparation. Food and water are the fuel that push you up that mountain, through that valley and along the sea. Start your food preparation weeks before the D Day.

4) How to choose the right hiking trail

Trekking is the discovery of a new way of life, new landscapes and new sensations. But it is important not to improvise too much! Decide how long you have to hike, pick a hike based on how much time you have and according to your level. Find your hiking trail online, with trekking maps or even in tourist offices. You will select the suitable routes according to your wish and level. It is also important to plan where you will rest at night. The best way to recover from long hours of hiking is simply to sleep. During that time, your body actually heals and repairs itself. Water and food supplies are also essential and you will maybe have to stop to gather more supplies. Don’t forget your ID papers and cash money to pay the cottages, which maybe are not equipped. If you camp, we suggest you avoid the peaks because of the wind.

5) Prepare your trekking equipment

Choosing the right pair of hiking shoes is essential. It’s important that they have the right padding and protection to endure the hike. Shoes, which are designed for the shape of your feet and your gait will be more comfortable. They also reduce impact and prevent shocks and trauma when running. Thanks to the 3D analysis tool, you will be able to know what kind of shoes fit you better. Select your shop according to your place of residence! Your feet are going to sweat, heat up and swell. That’s part of the trekking adventure! A pair of technical socks, which are suited to your feet will help to regulate and will keep your feet comfortable and blister-free throughout your journey. When it comes to the outdoors, adopt the 3 layer system. You can’t let cold get you. Be sure of your equipment; don’t wait until the eve to test it! It is especially right for shoes and socks, so as not to have a bad surprise on the D-day. Finally, your backpack should not weigh more than 20% of your body weight. Choose your bag after deciding on the things you want to pack in it.

6) Prepare a first aid kit 

In addition to your toiletry bag and first aid kit, take a sting and bites kit. Don’t forget to bring your Footcare kit that will protect your feet, before, during and after your long walks. With its “Cryo Recovery gel” providing a relaxing, relieving and repairing effect and its “toe cap and toe wrap” preventing chafing and black nails, it is the perfect solution to protect your feet.

7) Let your feet breathe

You will spend hours simply walking and despite the quality of your socks, insoles and hiking boots, your feet will certainly hurt at some point. Take your flip-flops with you and put them at night so your feet can breathe after a day of hiking! If you still have some room in your backpack, don’t hesitate anymore and take a shoe dryer. What a blast to start a new day with dry socks and shoes!

8) Reading is mind training

If you want to start the trip before the departure, Mike Horn’s Lattitude Zero, is the perfect book to read before hiking. The author relates his 17 months of adventure surviving in nature. This is about the extraordinary story of an ordinary man.

Now you know almost everything you need to achieve the trekking of your dreams.

Our last tip: travel light!