Spring is in the air (at least when it's not snowing here in Colorado!). "Daylight Savings" returns this weekend which means maybe we'll have the chance to get outside after work. Unless you already train in the dark. If so, right on! But for the rest of us, the extra hour or two of daylight can be a big motivator. So what's it gonna be: "Big Bang Theory" reruns or a half hour walk?
Aside from winter gym cardio & strength training, what do you do to prepare for hiking season? What motivates you?
Here are a few thoughts:
- Walk more on a daily basis.
- Start running/jogging for fitness.
- Sign up for an event, such as a 5K or 10K walk or run.
- Hike some local trails as they become snow free.
- Squeeze as many late season skiing or snowshoeing days in as possible.
- Sign up for a spring hiking tour and tough it out. (!)
I'm finding myself being drawn to the event world this spring. I've signed up for an event that will challenge me and (hopefully!) step up my training for the next six or so weeks.
As for my training, I intend to be back from my workout in time to watch "Survivor". :-)
Brief February Trip Notes:
We got back from hiking in Hawaii just over a week ago. Met some wonderful people, enjoyed hiking with some we already knew. Everyone seemed to have a good time!
Most of our mileage was not really huge because many of the trail surfaces can be quite challenging and time consuming. Thus, something that may appear to be "only" five miles can feel like twice that! Slow & steady hiking, good for balance. It gets dark relatively early as well. Snorkeling is to me a sort of "underwater hiking". We had one snorkel day per trip. I'm not much of a swimmer but enjoy all the colorful fish and coral. Snorkel Bob's and Pacific Whale Foundation actually have prescription masks you can rent that enable those of us who wear prescription lenses to see underwater! So cool!!
Pictures from hike to follow soon... please bear with me -- I put my camera's patch cord somewhere "safe"! :-(
Here's a link to Diana's trip report from Island Classic.
Crisp fall days are in full swing here in Colorado as well as in many regions around the globe. A few ski resorts are already opening ski runs and winter is on its way! There's no need to hibernate and wait for spring to go hiking... dress appropriately so you can stay active throughout the winter months with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter walks.
Layer Up!
An issue we face in winter is getting overheated by wearing too heavy or too much clothing. The more aerobic the sport, the more this is a factor. Being wet from perspiration subjects you to evaporative cooling. That means you can get colder and increase your risk for hypothermia when you sweat. Brrrr!
Consider the concept of "layering". Having multiple items of clothing available to put on and take off as you chill or begin to overheat helps to keep that perspiration level at a minimum. Clothing fabrics do make a difference. Cotton is not recommended for colder climates because it retains moisture when wet.
Start next to your skin with a "base" layer, such as lightweight synthetic or wool long johns and t-necks. Add an "insulating" layer, such as microfleece or polarfleece. Top it all off with a breathable "outer" layer or "shell", such as a waterproof, breathable Gore-tex or more breathable, water-resistant softshell.
Add more insulating layers (more microfleece or a vest) as you cool down and take them off when you feel you begin to overheat. I like to carry a down sweater in my pack as an extra insulating layer to don when stopping for a break.
Extremities in Extreme Weather
Hands, feet, face, and ears can be particularly sensitive to cold. These areas are often the first to be prone to frostnip or frostbite, too. Everyone has a different tolerance level. Here are a few thoughts about how I keep extremities warm:
- Gloves or Mittens: Gloves are nice when you are exerting yourself, but if you plan on stopping for any length of time (i.e., ski lift riding or perhaps just a lunch break), mittens are warmer. A wicking glove liner under a mitten can be a saving grace if it's cold and you have to do something that requires a glove to come off (like fasten a snowshoe binding!). Slide a handwarmer between the glove liner and mitten if your fingers are really cold.
- Shoes & Socks: I have good fitting, insulated boots for activities such as snowshoeing. A medium-thickness, merino wool sock works well for me. If you have room in your boot, you may want a couple of layers but keep in mind you'll need some literal wiggle room for your toes.
- Face, Head, Ears: Recommended items include a Fleece/Windproof Earband, Toques/Knit hat, and Neck gaiter/Balaclava. It's nice to have a hood on your insulating or shell layer for added protection from wind & cold.
Have fun & keep warm!
Note: These are only suggestions for you to consider. They are not intended to be a replacement for your good judgment. If it is cold outside and you don't feel you have appropriate clothing, go visit your local gym.
