Keeping the momentum: A hiker’s diary

Hiking can be a lot of fun, but one thing is for sure – keeping up the pace can sometimes be difficult, especially when you’re hiking with groups. Sometimes it can feel like an uphill battle when you’re hiking, especially when you’re new to it. Furthermore, it can be hard to know what is a good hiking pace and whether that matches with the rest of your group.

It’s a good idea to learn a little more about how to keep the momentum going when you’re on your hike. Thankfully, we’re here to help you out a little. Here’s our guide to keeping the momentum when you are hiking so you can have a great time!

Start out early

If you’re going hiking, it’s a good idea to get started early in the day. This is because it can get incredibly warm in the middle of the day, which can make you more prone to fatigue and discomfort when you are on the hike. If you start early then it’s usually still fairly cool, regardless of where you are. It’ll make it a lot easier for you to do the hike as a result, since the way back down will usually be a little less strenuous and so you won’t end up overheating. You can also change your pace based on the temperature too.

Take a break

It may be tempting to do your hike in one clean run without stopping. It certainly gives you something to brag about when you get home! With that being said though, it’s important to take breaks when you are hiking, or it can disrupt your pace. Make sure that you take small breaks on your way up those hills, even if it’s just to adjust your boots or to take a sip of water. Don’t take a break that’s too long though since this can tighten your muscles and make it harder to make your way up for the rest of the incline. Just take a quick five-minute break and then keep on moving to maintain your momentum.

Wear the right gear

You may think that it’s unimportant to worry about what you wear on your hike, but actually, it can have a big impact on your momentum. With shoes, you will feel uncomfortable if you are wearing the wrong ones and this can mean that you struggle more to keep up the pace. In terms of clothing, if you are wearing too many or too few layers, this can also make you uncomfortable. Dress for the weather based on the time of day that you will be hiking, and wear a decent pair of hiking boots. You will be much more comfortable and you will find the physical effort far easier too.

Pay attention to what your body is telling you

We all like to push ourselves every once in a while, but it’s important when you are hiking that you don’t push yourself too hard. Listening to your body is really important when you are hiking. One thing in particular that you really need to pay attention to is your hydration levels. Being dehydrated can be incredibly dangerous when you are hiking, whether the weather is warm or cold. If you aren’t feeling right, allow yourself to take a break and have a drink. It will be a lot safer for you to do this than soldiering on regardless, and you will find that you will have a much more enjoyable experience as a whole too.

Use a trekking pole

It’s worthwhile to get a trekking pole before you go on your big hiking excursion. Some people that have been hiking for a long time don’t like the idea of using hiking poles, but in reality, they can be a real lifesaver when you are trying to create a healthy and enjoyable pace while you are hiking. They are especially helpful when you are traveling back down the hill. They will help your body to feel less achy at the end of the excursion and will help to keep you feeling fresh throughout the whole trip. They’re certainly worth investing in!

Take someone with you

While it’s certainly possible to go hiking on your own and it can be very enjoyable to do so, it’s a better idea to go with someone on your hiking trip, especially if it’s your first time. Hiking can be dangerous, so it’s good to have someone that’s got your back. In addition to that, another person will also help you to stay motivated, allowing you to keep up the momentum.