- This topic has 2 replies, 2 voices, and was last updated 5 years, 10 months ago by
.
-
Posts
-
Hello fellow socal hikers! Been lurking on the site and the forums for the last couple of months, decided I should finally say hi.
Over the last few years, the family vacations have included quite a number of national parks. I’ve managed to get in some decent day hikes (moderate level) during this stretch, but really wanted to do more. I’m also looking for something to help me keep my fitness up. My days of being able to referee soccer are wearing on the 53 year old joints, so I’m looking for something lower impact but still outdoors.
A friend of mine and I are going to tackle Mt. Wilson tomorrow (5/11). Hopefully it’s the prelude to the six-pack.
James
Hey James, welcome to SoCal Hiker!
I’m not sure I’d say hiking is low impact, exactly, especially coming down the mountain on a long hike. But one thing that I’ve found really helpful is a pair of trekking poles.
See you on the trails!
Jeff,
Yea, coming down hills isn’t the easiest thing. However, so far it seems easier on my joints than going from a full sprint to a stop then turning around and going the other direction, which is what soccer officiating does. Plus, I don’t have the speed to keep up with the youngsters anymore!
Interestingly enough, it’s not the knees that have given me problems. It’s my ankles and plantar fasciitis due to all the sprinting. I’ve learned how to effectively treat both (ice stretching, etc.) The biggest thing I’ve learned over the years is: Take care of your feet, and they will take care of you. I used to worry about spending money on shoes, insole inserts, etc. Now if I’m going to spend on anything, it’s to make my feet comfortable.
I have some budget trekking poles that I used on the Mt. Wilson hike. It made a world of difference. We have a family trip to Lassen coming up this summer, so I think I’m going to invest in some better ones before that trip.
Thanks!
James
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
