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I am overweight and a beginner looking to start hiking for fun and fitness. Any ideas on how to get started?
I live in NE Georgia. Should I use poles? How do I buy a pack when I am really big?
I would like to camp/hike. I have a good lightweight tent and all the camping stuff and enjoy the outdoors. I thought that hiking would be the best step toward my goals, literally!
Answer:
It might help us answer if we had a little more info....
Do you walk a lot, already? If you haven't been taking walks on a regular basis, I would first begin a walking regime and try to condition your muscles/heart/lungs by just walking down the road before you try hiking.
If you do walk a lot, what kind of hiking are you interested in doing? Are you going to be back-packing to a place where you plan on camping, or are you just going to go on 'day' hikes with maybe a small pack carrying a picnic lunch and extra socks and a jacket, etc. About buying a pack, go to a sporting goods store if you can and ask the sales clerks to advise you. Tell them what you want to use it for and your concerns about finding one that will fit you- don't be embarrassed- you're doing a great thing for yourself by looking after your health and getting to spend time hiking- which is one of my favorite hobbies!
What kind of terrain are you planning on hiking on? I've sometimes used poles when hiking, but mostly for hilly areas where you're climbing up and down a lot. Be sure you have good hiking shoes or boots. (You don't have to get boots- some hiking shoes are much more comfortable and lighter so you can hike farther with less exertion.) Bring at least one extra pair of socks with you, and if possible, another pair of shoes/sandals/or whatever to give your feet a rest from the hiking shoes/boots when you're taking a break from the trail. Always plan for the worst conditions you might encounter on the trail, bringing plenty of water, food and an extra warm clothing layer like a jacket or sweater, a rain poncho, and a small first aid kit. I also carry a knife when I'm hiking- you never know when it will come in handy, even if it's just to open a can because you forgot to bring a can-opener! (I've carried the same heavy-duty Buck knife for over 30 years and it has opened more than one can!) A small GPS unit can be really helpful, too!
I hope this gives you some ideas on how to get started!
Good luck & happy trails!
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