Time to start Hiking?
Hiking is just going for a walk in nature.
Hiking in Midlife is so good for your mind and body, it offers a wonderful blend of physical activity, mental relaxation, and a deeper connection with nature. As we navigate through midlife, hiking can become a cherished hobby that balances adventure with tranquillity. It provides an excellent way to stay fit, reduce stress, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Read about getting started, how to take in nature, and the equipment you need. Hiking is great whether you do it solo, with a friend, or with a group. And the best part? It’s completely free.
You don’t have to be fit and walk for miles. Just walking around your local park is still hiking.
How I got into Hiking
When I was 10 years old I ran one lap of the track during a school games lesson and beat all my friends. My games teacher suggested to my father that I join a running club. So, I did, and for 15 years I raced all over the country and loved it.
In my mid-twenties, I became busy with life and stopped competitive racing, but I continued running for exercise and fun. As I entered midlife, I still thought I could run as fast as before, but my body disagreed, and I kept getting injured. After recovering from yet another knee injury, I started walking instead of running to strengthen it. I realised I could walk quickly and soon covered more distance walking, than when I was running. That's when I realised I needed to make the switch from running to walking.
This was a significant event for me because I have always been a runner. I found it a bit awkward when people kept asking me how my running was going. I couldn't bring myself to tell them that I now prefer walking. I mean, who doesn't walk? So, I made up my mind to identify as a "hiker" instead, as it sounded more impressive.
"There are not many things in life that can provide so many positive benefits without costing anything”.
Hiking on your own can be very liberating
I started by exploring routes around my home and walked between 3 to 10 miles each time. I got a hiking app on my mobile so I could see all the public footpaths and routes. There are many apps available, so you just need to find one that suits what you want. Most of them offer free basic versions that are completely fine to start off with. You will be amazed at how many paths and routes there are close to where you live.
Before long, you are likely to get more adventurous and want to explore new areas and routes. Having no one around you, but the serene countryside and untouched nature, gives you a feeling of complete freedom. If you have had a tough week or have a lot on your mind, then the time and space allows you to unwind and calm life down again, all while getting your body fitter. It’s a win-win!
Joining a friendly hiking group can be a great experience
One of the great things about hiking is that it is perfectly acceptable to go alone. However, if you go regularly, it can sometimes be nice to have someone around to talk to. The main advantage is that having deep conversations totally distracts you from the miles you are walking. If you have friends who are interested, go with them. If you don’t have anyone, there are lots of hiking groups on Facebook. Most of them are private, so you have to ask to join first, before you can see what they are like. For me, one of the largest ones was Hiking Buddies UK, so I requested to join.
Reading about the group and the events that were put on by the members each week, matched what I had been hoping for. All the comments and messages from people who were either about to undertake a hike or had just completed one, were very positive and encouraging.
I found a local hike, pressed ‘Going,’ and felt a bit nervous attending my first hike with other people. I had no idea what to expect, how fast they would walk, whether I would be left behind, whether I was wearing the right gear, and whether they would be friendly to a newbie. I need not have worried, everything was fine and I felt so welcomed and enjoyed it immensely. It was exactly what I had hoped. I was hooked.
You can easily find a hike that matches your abilities near your location. Many people reach out to the organiser to get more details about the hike. Everyone is pretty open about their capabilities, and often someone will say it's their first hike or if they're feeling a bit out of shape. The goal is for everyone to stick together, so the organiser will be transparent about the terrain, the pace, and whether there will be any breaks, to make sure it's suitable for everyone.
No Pressure
The thing I have found with hiking is there is no competitiveness, rivalry, or snobbery. Everyone has their own aims and objectives. Some people set themselves challenges for really tough long hikes, while others are quite happy and feel a sense of achievement walking 5 miles on a flat easy route.
Wear what you like
Like any activity, you can get completely carried away with buying all the latest gear - backpacks, walking poles, sit mats, gaiters, the list is endless. However, when you start off, as long as you are going on a short local route you know well, a pair of good trainers, shorts and a t-shirt is absolutely fine, whatever you feel comfortable in. Normally you just need some water. You can build up the amount of specialist clothes and gear you have to suit the hikes you wish to go on over time.
Hiking is becoming very popular
It’s one of those activities that you don’t realise how many people do, until you start going to popular routes. It’s becoming so popular that some of the more famous peaks and sights have hundreds of people walking up them on a nice weekend.
So, not only is it really good for your physical and mental health, but it’s also very sociable and friendly, and it doesn't have to cost you a penny. Trust me, you will never look back. You will feel fitter in your mind and body and make many new friends.
Please see my blog page for more hiking adventures.
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