Four quick tips for hiking

Favour a breath of fresh air in countryside? Chung Cho‑ming, Occupational Therapy Assistant in North District Hospital and the team leader of the Oxfam trailwalker team of New Territories East Cluster last year shares some hiking tips to set you on the right path!

 

 

Stepping deep to keep footing

Stairway can be usually found in trails in Hong Kong. In order to keep footing, it is important to keep your back upright and step deep with whole foot on stair when walking up. Hikers should consider using non‑alternating stepping pattern when walking upstairs in steep. Relax and avoid tiptoeing when traversing downstairs. Moreover, walk sideways with your foot 45 degree turned and place it flat on the surface of the stair to reduce stress on joints.

 

Additional support by using hiking poles

Using hiking poles in pairs can lessen impact stress to body by 20%. Adjust poles to the correct length on flat ground, elbow is bent at a 90 degree angle when the pole is in a vertical position and keep it close to the body. Plant the tip slightly ahead of the foot and push off with the pole when moving uphill. For travelling downhill, position the poles slightly in front of you and aid in body balance.

 

Gear up to keep warm and get windproof protection

Tight-fitting long pants and moisture-wicking long sleeves can keep you warm in cold weather. Hikers should bring along waterproof windbreaker and an extra set of outfit to prevent from catching a chill on a breezy day or travelling through dense forest. Wearing a pair of high‑traction hiking footwear and gloves can provide protection while hitting rocky path.

 

Replenishing stations

Characteristics of the trail, location of exit points and replenishing stations will determine how much fuel you need to bring. Most importantly, go with experienced hikers!