First, you'll need a good pair of shoes and thick socks designed for this type of activity. You can start with some sturdy sneakers with thick bottoms. When you begin to take on more difficult trails, try a pair of hiking boots, and make sure they fit! Make sure they fit! Also, get a backpack or fanny pack to carry all of your hiking supplies. Dress in layers and bring along a waterproof jacket with a hood in case you get caught in the rain. And don't forget a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses because the higher you hike, the more dangerous the sun's rays become. Want to read more on protecting yourself from the sun?
To keep hiking fun, you always need to be prepared to beat problems that could happen while you're out, like finding the trail if you get lost or stuck in bad weather. Make sure you bring a map of the area you'll be hiking in and a sturdy compass. Don't know how to use a compass? Check this out to learn how. You'll also need to bring plenty of water and extra food, like sports bars or trail mix, in case you have to stay out late and get hungry. The adults on your hike should bring a box of waterproof matches and an Army-style knife. A flashlight and extra batteries will help you find your way if you end up out after dark. Finally, you'll need to bring a first aid kit, in case someone gets hurt during your hike. Want to know what goes in a first aid kit?
Take a hike! No, really, take the time to go hiking. Hiking with your friends or family is a great chance to get outdoors, breathe some fresh air, and get active. It's easy to get started. Just look for a trail in a national park near you!
For your first day hike (hiking for a day or less without camping overnight), choose a safe, well-marked trail that doesn't have too many steep climbs. Otherwise, you'll get tired too early and won't make it as far as you want to go. Each time you go hiking, try going a little farther and take a slightly steeper trail. Before you know it you'll be hiking the Appalachian Trail — a 2,167-mile trail that goes all the way from Maine to Georgia!
Did you know that you could lose weight by doing handstands? You can—but it’s only temporary. Many athletes who have to “weigh in” before competitions such as wrestlers, weight lifters, or rowers do handstands for about two minutes against a wall before they step on the scale. While they’re upside down, all of the blood rushes to their head. When they step on the scale, the blood is in free fall, causing it to be weightless and the athlete a few pounds lighter!