WALKING
The following is the definition provided by Wikipedia (the free encyclopedia).
“Walking (also known as ambulation) is one of the main gaits of locomotion among legged animals, and is typically slower than running and other gaits. Walking is defined by an ‘inverted pendulum’ gait in which the body vaults over the stiff limb or limbs with each step. This applies regardless of the number of limbs – even arthropods with six, eight or more limbs.”
WHY THIS BLOG
This site wants to go a bit further than simple walking because we all know about the curative effects of exercise. One of the best exercises is the simple art of walking. Get off the couch, switch off the idiot box and go for a walk while you are able. Extend your health and longevity. But there’s more because if you do get to enjoy your daily walk why not widen your horizon, take up the big picture and go hiking or for the more adventurous – trekking.
HIKING
Hiking is an outdoor activity which consists of walking in natural environments, your chance to experience the big picture, to smell the flowers out in the country. There are numerous hiking clubs who welcome new comers. , often in mountainous or other scenic terrain. I live close to the Blue Mountains inland from Sydney and the dedicated hiking trails are superb. In other parts of the world we can experience magnificent hiking facilities in National Parks and wilderness. There are many worldwide hiking groups to cater for this popular activity.
TREKKING
Trekking takes walking and hiking a step further (pardon the pun). It is not confined to hiking trails but is more a long journey by foot. It could involve days of walking and is probably an activity for the more adventurous as it can cover uncharted routes.
SAFETY FIRST
During the summer months there is a not a week that goes past where some hiking group has got lost. The cost on resources on the Police, State Emergency Services, Helicopter evacuations etc is both costly and a needless exercise. Groups must be prepared and that means the correct equipment whether it be warm clothing, compasses, maps and the hire of an emergency distress beacon known as an ELT or EPIRB. School kids and other hikers have unfortunately lost their lives because of the lack of preparation and becoming lost. So if you do take up hiking do it with an experienced group.
SUMMARY
With the emphasis on fitness and remedying obesity walking is one of the best exercises regimes that one can get into. You do not need a lot of expensive equipment to start. A pair of good shoes is essential as you do not want to injure yourself. If you step up to hiking and trekking than the need to be well equipped is vital. But regardless at what level you want to practice you get the opportunity to experience the great outdoors and gain the big picture first hand whether it be ina local park or on a mountain trail.
Arnold Vee
Once again I am indebted to Wikipedia for their definitions.