10,000 Steps. Walk every day. Get your steps in … We’ve all heard those words, but how do we get started? What do we need? How do we make it a habit that we will not only keep, but actually look forward to? Well the answer to that is not that complicated, but there may be some things you’ll need to set you on the right path.
Now these things we will be talking about are for walking or hiking outdoors. Rain or shine and hot or cold.
To start with the obvious: Foot wear. Foot wear is incredibly important, because if your feet are hurting, or you are slipping, your walks and/or hikes will not be pleasant, and it will be difficult to create a habit of walking. They say you should not scrimp on your feet, but it’s not necessary to start with the most expensive shoes you can find. You may even have an old pair of sneakers laying around the house, just make sure they feel comfortable, won’t give you blisters BUT most importantly, make sure the treads are not worn. If they are, then yes, it’s time to purchase a new pair. If you’ll be doing some light hiking, those sneakers may be just fine, but you also may want to invest in a hiking sneaker or boot. Maybe one that’s waterproof or water resistant.
Next up, and obvious as well, is comfortable clothes. And that will be different for everyone, depending on their preference and of course weather will dictate that as well. Also I suggest having a light jacket or zippered sweatshirt that you’d be able to wrap around your waist, because you may start your walk/hike feeling cool or cold, but once you get moving, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you’ll warm up and even sweat! And then at the end of your walk/hike, you may cool off quickly and you’ll be happy you were carrying that jacket around your waist.
Now don’t forget the sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can still be harmful to your skin, we are walking for health … Let’s keep our skin healthy too! And for even more sun protection, a cap with an opening for a ponytail is very handy, and if you live in an area that has deer ticks, it will help keep them off of your head and out of your hair. And speaking of ticks, and all the other annoying bugs that come with the beautiful outdoors, like gnats, mosquitos and spiders, the essential oil, Deet free, all natural brand of Nantucket Spider has a product for every creepy crawly.
Next up:Hydration. Hydration is sooooo important, and dinking warm water out of a plastic water bottle is so unappealing. Having a stainless steel water bottle that will keep your ice water frigid for hours, is crucial. Now, the thought of carrying that seems cumberson, a backpack or a fanny pack that has not only a water bottle spot, but also a place to keep your phone, your keys, a quick protein snack and tissues is a great idea. It keeps your hands free and everything within reach.
Let’s talk protection: Having some sort of protection, especially if you are walking solo, is very important. Not only protection from humans, but you never know if you come across a dangerous animal. Two options are: Bear/Pepper Spray and a “Pocket” Knife. Both where you keep hanging on the outside of your backpack/fanny pack, so it is within hands reach in case of an emergency. And while we are talking safety, make sure you are ALWAYS aware of your surroundings. If you are wearing ear buds, only one in one ear, so your other ear is listening to what is going on around you.
Let’s talk about the weather … Some days it may rain, some days it may snow, but you are determined to get your walk/hike in That is why I suggest you have a couple of things on hand, hanging in your coat closet to grab on your way out the door, so your don’t waste time going through your closets for these items. When you’re ready to go, you don’t want to take the time to locate these items.
- Rain jacket
- Heated Vest
- Hat that covers neck
- Snow boots
- Hot Hands and Hot Feet
- Gloves
- Sunglasses with a sports band, so they will be hanging around your neck when you’re in the depths of the woods and the sun isn’t so bright.
And most importantly, you’ll need a positive attitude … even if you don’t feel “positive” when you start, I can almost guarantee by the end of your walk/hike, your perspective and mindset will have shifted and you will be so happy you did it, and you’ll be planning your next hike!
Happy Walking!!!!