| If you have ever been hiking along the Appalachian | | | | your body from shutting down. |
| trail or across a long stretch of country road, you | | | | Food is obviously the other essential component of a |
| know what it's like to parched and in need of water. | | | | safe day in the wilderness. It is important to keep |
| When the sun is baking your brain and your body is | | | | fueled up with protein bars, nuts and carbohydrates |
| screaming for water you can be in serious danger of | | | | during your hike. Stay away for high fat and sugar |
| dehydration and heat stroke. Hiking on Mountain trails | | | | based processed foods. There really is no reason to |
| or up a steep gorge requires the proper equipment | | | | bring a bag of chips since your system craves natural |
| for your safety and survival. | | | | foods to increase stamina during your trek into the |
| Food, water and shelter are the three main | | | | wilderness. Protein bars, granola and dried fruit are |
| components each person needs to survive. Having a | | | | just some of the items that can be easily carried into |
| good water source to keep you hydrated is the | | | | the field. |
| most important aspect of any physical activity. Your | | | | A good hiking boot with lots of support will help in |
| health and safety are directly tied to the amount of | | | | rocky terrain. Boots should be ankle high, with good |
| H2o you consume during that activity. | | | | tread and waterproof if hiking in less than desirable |
| It is a well known that you can go days without | | | | conditions. There is nothing worse than having cold |
| food, but water is essential to keeping you safe, | | | | wet feet as you are trudging through the brush. |
| especially if you are in the middle of nowhere. | | | | In summary, when preparing for a good hike, make |
| Whether you are a serious athlete or weekend | | | | sure you have the essential tools to stay hydrated |
| warrior, fluids need to be consumed regularly to keep | | | | and well nourished during your excursion. |