Outdoor activities are good for the mind and body. Hiking is an opportunity to enjoy nature and get the body moving. The difficulty level varies by trail, but injury can occur at any level. Since hiking exercises so many parts of the body, you could experience pain in different areas. Here, we explain how to prevent common hiking injuries. Read on to learn more.
Blisters
Blisters are extremely common, and they’re the result of friction between your skin and your shoes. The best way to prevent blisters is by wearing proper shoes—hiking boots are the ideal option. You should make sure that the boots fit well before you go for a hike. If you wear hiking boots that are too big, you may get blisters. Make sure you know how to tell if hiking boots are too big.
Sprains
If you’re wondering how to prevent common hiking injuries, start by investing in quality hiking gear. Many hiking injuries are associated with a lack of proper equipment. Sprains are some of the more serious injuries, so preventing them is very important. You must wear hiking boots with good support, because when you go for a hike, you may end up walking on uneven terrain. High-quality hiking boots provide ankle support. Without it, your foot will slide around while you hike.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is an extremely serious condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. This happens in very low temperatures. If you’re hiking somewhere new, check the temperature before you depart. Changes in altitude can also change the temperature, so keep this in mind if you plan to hike up a mountain. The best way to prevent hypothermia is to be prepared. Make sure to wear shoes and gear that keep you warm. You should also consider bringing a change of clothes in case yours get wet. Lastly, consider bringing a warm beverage.