Tips and advice for a good walk

Walking is a simple pleasure of life and one that is the most cheapest forms of exercise there is. It can also very healthy, especially if you can get out into the countryside; all that fresh air! There are so many places you can go for a walk and many choices of terrain; whether it be a gentle stroll, a ten mile hike, or a day exploring many miles of unspoilt countryside.

If you enjoy walking, or are thinking of doing some serious walking then here are a few tips to bear in mind.

Wear good quality walking shoes or boots. These are probably the first and most important items to consider.  They should fit comfortably, have a flexible sole and room for your toes to twiddle.  (When looking for new boots or shoes don't skimp on quality and when trying them on be sure to wear your walking socks so you get a good fit).

Wear appropriate clothing. When the sun is shining and the weather is warm you should wear a hat and use sunscreen. When the weather is cold, try wearing several layers so you can remove them when you warm up (and then put them back on after your walk or if you stop for a rest).

Walking poles, or a single pole, will aid stability (and are also good exercise for your arms and upper body). A walking pole is particularly useful for natural trails and rougher terrain.

Use a waist bag or back pack to carry essential items.

You may be surprised at how far you actually walk so take a pedometer to measure the distance you have travelled.

Even if you know where you are going, take a map with you; if you have an emergency or an accident you can refer to it when giving your location to the relevant emergency services.

Take a fully charged mobile phone with you and ensure you have ICE (in case of emergency) contact details programmed in.  If you have an accident or situation, someone will be able to look up ICE in your contact details. It might be worth getting a cheap and cheerful pay as you go just for walks so that you do not get interrupted by unwanted calls and text messages

If you are walking for more than 30 minutes or so then take water with you (unless there are places to get some along your route).

If you intend to go walking alone, tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back. (Give them your mobile number if they do not already have it).

Carry a whistle - to raise the alarm if you are injured, to let people know where you are.

Depending upon the length of your walk, and where you are going, take some snack food with you like energy bars and boiled sweets.

Other items to consider keeping in your pack is a pocket knife, compass, travel first aid kit, tissues or wet wipes, and some spare cash.

Take your camera with you; you never know what you might see that you feel the need to capture.

Take your dog, or someone else's dog if you don't have one!

Many people take their four legged friends on their hikes and rambles; dogs are great walking companions, they are always ready for the off (often unlike family and friends).  Here are a few tips to consider when taking a dog with you:

Plenty of water and a portable water bowl. Dogs can even get dehydrated in the car, so do not skimp on water.

Whilst your dog may be well behaved on and off lead, there may be times when you need to keep him under control; an extendable lead gives a little more freedom than a shortie and allow you to reel him in if necessary.

If it is sunny, then pet sunscreen (yes dogs can get sunburnt too!) and possibly a hat and dog sunglasses (Doggles).

Ensure your dog's ID tag is up to date; it may be worthwhile getting a tube style (paper insert) one for walks just in case he wanders off or loses you. 

This should give your mobile number and additional contact numbers, such as a friend or relative's number.  If you are on holiday, then the name of where you are staying and possibly your vehicle registration number (you may be out looking for your dog but if someone finds him and checks his ID, they may see your car in the car park or contact you or your accommodation).

Poop bags - obvious, but must be disposed of properly (not just thrown at the side of the path as I have seen many times).

Make sure your dog is fit; don't suddenly decide on a 20 mile hike if his normal exercise is just round the local park!  If in any doubt, ask your vet to check him out, or gradually increase the length of your walks. The same applies to you too!

Have regular stops and pauses along the way.

If you can, choose walks where there is some shade (trees/forest) and water, such as a freshwater lake or stream.  Even if your dog does not swim, a little water is nice for a paddle to cool hot pads and for a drink.  Try to avoid canal or river water as they may contain contamination.

If, during your walk, your dog starts to lie down whenever he can, or try to find shade, then it is time to stop!  Have a rest, give the dog some water and when you are sure he is comfortable then start on your return to base - take it easy!

Do not walk your dog when it is too hot; if it is summer, then start early in the morning or during the evening when the sun is less harsh. 

If you are on holiday, find the telephone number of the local vet (an emergency number for the vet is better) and put it in your phone and on the dog tag (in the event of your dog getting lost and/or injured then the number will be easy to find).

If your dog has his own back pack, then consider getting him his own phone programmed with all relevant numbers.  If he gets lost and someone finds him, then they will be able to use the phone and call the numbers in the phone.

If you are all ready - then happy walking!

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