Basics Of Hiking

IT'S MORE FUN HIKING IN THE PHILIPPINE WILDERNESS

Get ready for a thrilling journey in the Philippine wilderness! You’ll explore breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery...

...and the perpetual question of “Are we there yet?”

Brace yourself for a wild experience through the incredible nature. Just don’t forget to leave your pride behind, because you’ll be soaked with sweat by the time you reach the peak! Here are some valuable tips to enhance your hiking experience and make it more enjoyable.

1. Know Before You Go

Do some research before you go. Get the basic information such as trail length, elevation, water sources, weather, hazards and more. Here are just some of the things that you should know about beforehand.

• Check the map

  The first thing to do is to check the map, such as Google Map. It will show you the location of your destination, the best route to take, and the estimated time of arrival. Checking the map is a smart move for any traveler.

• How to get to the jump-off point

  Find the most convenient and reliable transport modes and services to take you to the jumpoff point and back.

• Length of trail

  Knowing the length of the trail allows you to estimate the hike distance. Knowing the hike distance beforehand can help you estimate the time it will take to complete, and the amount of food, water, and gear for the journey.

• Elevation gain

  Knowing the elevation gain beforehand can help you estimate the difficulty of the hike. Elevation gain refers to the amount of vertical distance you will cover from the trailhead to your goal.  Hikes with higher elevation gains can be more physically challenging and may require more time and preparation.

• Water source

  Water is one of the most important thing you need in your trip. Knowing where the reliable water source is can help you determine how much water to bring. Ask your local guide before you hit the trail.

• Weather

  Check the weather before you go. The weather may greatly affect the way to your destination, particularly the road and trail conditions. Knowing the road and trail conditions can help you prepare for the trip and bring appropriate gear.  Roads and trails can become slippery and muddy after heavy rains. Trail segments without tree cover can be hot on a sunny day, causing heat exhaustion and even heat stroke.

2. Pack The Essentials

Once you got the basic information you need, make a list of all the essentials that you'll need for your hike, and then eliminate any non-essential items. The weight of your backpack can affect your hiking performance, especially if you are carrying a heavy load. Carrying a heavy backpack can make it more difficult to maintain your balance, increase the strain on your muscles and joints, and lead to fatigue and exhaustion more quickly. Click the button below to learn more about the essentials.

3. Pack The Right Behavior

In addition to packing the necessary gear and supplies, individuals should also bring along a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment and the people.

4. Sleep

People overlook the importance of a good night's sleep before the journey. They tend to focus on preparing their gear, checking the weather, and planning their route, but neglect the importance of getting enough rest. However, sleep plays a critical role in physical and mental performance, and not getting enough sleep can increase the risk of injury or accidents on the trail.

5. Stretch And Exercise

Stretching before and after a physical activity like hiking can be beneficial for preventing injuries and reducing soreness. It can help prepare your muscles and also aid in recovery after the activity.

6. Pace Yourself

Start slow. Find a comfortable and sustainable speed that allows you to make progress without exhausting yourself too quickly. It's important to start at a pace that feels comfortable and maintain that pace consistently. Move like a turtle rather than a rabbit.

7. Breathing

Deep, rhythmic breathing is essential for maintaining energy and endurance on a hike. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, taking full, slow breaths to help regulate your heart rate and oxygen intake.

8. Breaks

Try to take regular and short breaks rather than occasional and lengthy ones. Taking regular short breaks can help reduce stiffening of muscles.

9. Hydration

Staying hydrated is critical during a hike, especially in hot weather. Carry a sufficient supply of water and electrolyte-replenishing drinks, and take frequent breaks to rehydrate.

10. Adjustments

Do whatever it takes to reduce muscle tension in particular areas. Using the same muscles in the same way for several hours is bound to have negative effects.

Taking shorter strides up a steep slope may help minimize muscle tension and fatigue. Taking baby steps can be an effective technique for preventing muscle tension, but it should be combined with other strategies such as regular breaks and stretching to maintain optimal muscle health during a hike.

NO LARGE LAND CARNIVORES HERE

If you're looking for a place to explore without becoming the main course of a bear, mountain lion, or tiger, then the Philippine wilderness is the place for you! That's right, folks - you can wander around and enjoy the natural beauty of the wilderness without having to worry about a giant furry creature. It's like the ultimate 'no predators allowed' club - sorry, bears, you're just not on the guest list.

Philippine wilderness: No large land predators here. Just shy snakes and pesky leeches.

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