Trekking and Hiking for beginners
Based on my own experience as an enthusiastic hiker
Walking is one of the most accessible and satisfying outdoor activities you can undertake. Whether you want to enjoy nature, get some fresh air, or just become more active, walking is a great way to start. In this blog post, I will discuss the basics of walking for beginners and share some helpful tips and statistics. So, keep reading!
Walking is simple and effective
Walking is very simple and offers a lot of benefits. I’ll briefly explain how and what below:
1. Starting with Walking
The beauty of walking is that you can start almost immediately. You don’t need any special equipment except for comfortable clothing and suitable shoes. If you want to know more about this, read my blog on how to choose the right hiking shoes or Ivo’s blog on hiking shoes for large sizes.
2. Health Benefits
Walking is not only enjoyable but also has numerous health benefits. It strengthens your muscles, improves your cardio health, and can aid in weight management and loss. Additionally, walking in nature can reduce stress and enhance your mental well-being.
3. The Right Posture
Walking is all about the right posture. Make sure you stand upright, relax your shoulders, and let your arms move naturally as you walk. This minimizes the strain on your joints and ensures a comfortable walking experience.
4. Distance and Speed
For beginners, it’s important to remember that walking isn’t about speed but about consistency. Start with short distances and gradually build up. An average walking speed for beginners is between 5 and 6 kilometers per hour.
Walking tips for beginners
Safety is always important while walking:
- Know Your Surroundings: Make sure you are familiar with the area where you will be walking. Bring a map or GPS if necessary.
- Dress Appropriately: Dress according to the weather and conditions. Use sunscreen and a hat if needed, and layer up in cold weather.
- Mobile Phone: Bring your mobile phone for emergencies and ensure it is fully charged.
- Safety in Nature: If walking in nature, be aware of wildlife and insects. Stay on the paths and respect nature.
Walking in numbers
Let’s look at some interesting statistics about walking:
- Calorie Burning: An average person can burn about 100 calories per kilometer while walking. This can vary based on your weight and walking speed.
- Pedometer: To track your progress, you can use a pedometer. The goal is usually 10,000 steps per day, which is roughly equivalent to 5 kilometers of walking.
- Walking Routes: There are thousands of walking routes available worldwide, ranging from easy paths to challenging mountain climbs. There’s something for everyone!
- Health Benefits: Regular walking can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and depression. It is one of the most accessible forms of exercise.
- Social Activity: Walking can also be a great social activity. Join a walking group or invite friends and family to join you.
Try to Enjoy!
As you are just beginning with walking, don’t punish yourself if you can’t cover the desired distance in one go. Start with manageable goals and gradually increase them. This way, you can steadily build up and soon be walking long distances with great pleasure! If you found these tips helpful and want to know more about walking, check out our comprehensive category where we delve into this topic in detail. If you have any additions to this blog, we’d love to read them in the comments below. This way, we can also learn from others and enrich this blog with valuable information!