Four ways to make a hike easier

Are you about to go on a long-distance hike? Are you worried about how your unfit body will cope? Fear not, you can make the journey a little easier.

While some people may be thrilled about the prospect of tramping across rough landscapes and conquering steep ascents, there are plenty of individuals who could find the idea a little overwhelming if they are not used to outdoor pursuits.

So what can you do to make your first hike a success? You should focus on making the trip as comfortable as possible for your body, in whichever way you can. Here are four possible areas to invest in:

Shoes

There is a reason why experienced hikers and walking enthusiasts buy specialist footwear such as men’s North Face boots; they make walking easier for your feet. As well as giving the support and grip required to cross uneven terrain, hiking boots will tend to be waterproof, which is priceless in the rain.

Rest

A hike can be a tiring activity; make sure you bring the right gear with you so that your rest periods are something to look forward to. Think about taking a lightweight rug or blow-up cushion that you can sit on and truly relax those aching legs.

Drinks

By bringing the right selection of drinks on a long walk, you can cater for a variety of moods and physical needs. Depending on the weather, this may involve a flask of tea or coffee, an iced bottle of water, a fruit juice or simply a sugary drink - this final one can be especially important if you know your blood-sugar levels are susceptible when you exert yourself.

Goal

Although not strictly something you take with you, the idea of introducing a luxury goal at the end of your walk can be a huge psychological boost. If you know that you are eating in a Michelin-starred restaurant at the end of a walk, you are likely to have more energy than if you are set to spend the night in a campsite. Give yourself something to work towards.