Having a supportive tribe

 

A tribe that plays together...

This past Saturday, I joined the work athletics team for a practice run. Yes, run, although it is more of a shuffle in my world! Anyway, the team was supposed to start at 05:00, and I had my alarm set to be there on time. And when the alarm went off, I didn’t press snooze; I pressed stop and turned, ready to continue with my sleep, as I felt too tired to punish myself like that. I couldn’t sleep and decided to wake up anyway. As I was preparing myself, I started seeing updates from members and got the fuel I needed to do this!

Sometimes showing up is the only choice

I had a doctor’s appointment that day, so I  needed a change of clothes. Since time was not on my side, I had to do everything in a rush. And each time I had to leave, I realised I had forgotten something. This happened so often that I wondered if it was even worth it. The last straw was when I tripped and fell! Need I mention how falling unsettles me, given my fragile structure now? Instead of seeing that as a sign that maybe it was time for a rain check, the rebel in me was more determined to show up. When I arrived at the venue, I got unnerved as it was still a tad dark, and while there were cars, no one was in sight. I knew long-distance runners had a different route but expected to find the short-distance tribe. I felt a bit dejected as I reflected on how everything seemed to go wrong before I left. And then I had a light bulb moment! I was being delayed so I could arrive when it was not too dark since I would be alone! Coincidence? Synchronicity? In my world, it will be the latter. Anyway… that’s not what I’m writing about!

A little support goes a long way

Over the years, I have participated in several marathons as a walker and have always been in awe of the different teams running as a group, mostly singing while I’m gasping for air (shuffling, not running). I learned later that those groups are called buses. And it is those buses that ensure that all members finish the race! I also noticed that there would be normal water stops, but there would also be some special stops provided for specific team members only, with the attendants there cheering members on. The camaraderie and the support have always been a marvel to watch. Only this past weekend did I get a glimpse of how the foundation of such a support structure is laid. It takes commitment and sacrifice from members who choose not to train and support their fellow runners during their training. It takes members who choose to attend a marathon they are not taking part in to support their team members. It takes runners who finish running short distances and wait at the finish line to cheer their team members running long distances. It is stuff like this that tends to pull at my heartstrings.

In hiking, a selfie moment can sometimes be all the cheering you need (Photo courtesy of Keo wa Aforika)

A little appreciation for the helpers

This led me back to a moment back in 2015 when a friend was injured during a weekend hike. This injury happened on the first day of a two-day hike, and she was not about to abandon such a serious mission just to be x-rayed and put on a moon boot. As is the culture of hikers, everyone did their bit to ensure she was comfortable. Everything except convincing her that it was not a good idea not to be checked immediately, especially given that she was at an age where spare parts were scarce. Among the helpers was one big-hearted soul (may her soul continue to rest in peace) who was a lover and a cheerleader of note. My experience over the weekend made me appreciate her again. It was her nature to make sure everyone was okay.  She opted not to hike on the second day to take care of the injured hiker. Some hikers offered to stay with them. When the rest of the group left that morning, she was cheering us on, almost crying as she wished us well and reminded us how much she loved us all. After her passing, a video of this moment was circulated widely across social media platforms. I’m only realising now how big her role was. She was not just that person who enjoyed traveling with hikers while she was not going to hike. Not only did she keep the fireside busy with her humour, but she also ensured hikers were fed!

Members of my tribe can be creative with their photos (Photo courtesy of Tony Sibanda)

Being held

I have received a lot of support in my hiking journey. I have mentioned that this started as a wobbly journey due to my fear of heights and bodies of water. And yet, through the support of fellow hikers who had to hold me or even carry my bag, I could overcome most of those fears. When watching the Comrades Marathon, one witnesses strength, resilience and character. The selflessness I have seen with runners carrying each other to the finish line says much about this tribe. I have realised that running needs mental strength, as does hiking. You are as good as your physical, mental and emotional fitness during a hike. It is, therefore, important to attend to those. In addition to your fitness, your tribe will determine how you experience a hike. Your support to others will determine how they experience a hike. 

 At 5 200m altitude! I thought I was going to die. 

Sometimes hiking can be torture

I don’t think my body ever experienced torture like it did when I hiked the Anchascocha trail in Peru. For anyone who wants to know when I’m doing Kilimanjaro, I’m not sure. With my weak lungs and my struggle with altitude in Peru, I may just have to accept that it is not for me. And I’m saying this, knowing very well that there is absolutely nothing wrong in changing my view at some point. Anyway, I feel I could have done with better support on this hike, but I cannot forget how two guys had to drag me to the Rainbow Mountain. I remember at 20 meters, one of the guys saying to me, you can go back if you want. I was done; but I looked at him and asked, are you mad? Dealing with altitude needs serious fitness; but even fit hikers can struggle with that. A supportive tribe is still key, but being physically fit and mentally ready to deal with altitude is vital. 

 

The view is always worth the rough climb.

Being with the tribe

I will be going on a weekend hike soon after two or more years of absence, not out of choice. Life happens, and I have learned not to force anything. Again, in my world, everything happens for a reason. I am looking forward to reconnecting with nature. I am looking forward to watching the stars (elements allowing) by the fireside and sharing some hilarious stories shared only around the fire. I’m looking forward to hearing wild animals calling at night. And while I’m looking forward to all these, I am looking forward to sharing space and food with my tribe and the support that goes with that. That support can be someone walking with you when you cannot keep up with the group's pace. Someone encouraging you when you start questioning the wisdom of subjecting yourself to rough terrains when you could have joined a choir. You may, at some point, question your decision to leave your comfortable bed to be tortured in the bush. Believe me, it is normal. We do that, and as soon as we finish the trail, the first question becomes, when and where are we hiking next?

You may be the one that has to switch on the geyser.

At the end

I hope in your journey, you will be made to feel like you belong to a tribe. And here, I’m not referring to belonging to a specific group. Being a hiker makes you part of a bigger hiking tribe. And the support you will receive will not be limited to those you know. I hope you, too, will open your heart and make other hikers feel part of a tribe. And while at that, may we never forget what we owe to nature and our environment. Let’s respect nature and keep our environment clean. Let's preserve it for future generations. One step at a time!

Td

Each to their own… or not?

 

I must confess I wanted to post this before the end of February, as I promised to write two posts a month. Then I had to remember my advice. The past few weeks have been hectic as I became a grandma at the end of January. This left less time to do most things, including writing – and I’m not complaining. And that is just how life goes. Occasionally, we are reminded that we are not in charge and that it’s okay to slow down when necessary. Anyway… here we go!

My attempt at healthy living started with joining an aerobics club a few years back. Except for the high-impact exercises, which included step, we did a bit of weight training and toning. It was beautiful, and I enjoyed that. My body, even though it was much heavier when I started, did a good job of carrying me at the time.

I was later introduced to other forms of exercise and even joined hiking. I then realised that no amount of jumping up and down at the gym would prepare me for what the mountains have in store for me. Hiking requires stamina, and walking uphill on varying terrain plus long distances demands strong cardiovascular endurance. I needed more. I  needed to walk more to build my endurance for long distances and develop my cardiovascular strength. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hiker , you cannot afford to slack on your fitness. I learned that the hard way!

Walking is an effective exercise that's also gentle on your knees.

My friend and I once pulled a very costly stunt. We decided to join a hiking trip to Monk’s Cowl, in the Drakensberg - straight from our coaches. Our guide, having taken us to another trail in the berg, trusted our fitness and told us, “You girls have what it takes!” Boy, did we have a rude awakening! We arrived last at the camp, and the guide was kind enough to let us know that, throughout his guiding career, he’s never had anyone reach that camp after sunset. Ouch!  And that was not the only time we were last. We (the same friend and I) once registered for a half marathon (walking) at a night race, and we were so behind that we had to be escorted. By the way, these are stories often shared around the fire during a hike.

And we continue to explore divergent terrains, this time armed with the requisite fitness.

Anyway, this piece is not about hiking fitness but rather about whether people should stick to one sport (for lack of a better word). I’ve made myself a messenger here because I’ve heard people questioning why some people run, cycle, hike, and swim, among others. My question is, why limit yourself? Okay, I do not run! I do not have knees for running, and since I’m also aware that there may be no spare parts for my model, I try not to do anything that may require replacing some of my body parts. So, you can imagine how much I cringe each time I see people running on trails.

A fellow hiker says human beings are not made for running. And that’s him justifying why he would never run in his life. And another fellow hiker feels running on a trail is just madness. And he doesn’t understand why some people think hikers are mad for leaving their homes to torture themselves in the mountains, exposing themselves to a lot of danger in the process. In the same way, other people don’t understand why people would just chase the wind for so many kilometres. That it doesn’t make sense to you doesn’t make it stupid. You find someone questioning why you hike, yet they walk for hours trying to get a small white ball into a hole. I can go on and on. And people pay a lot of money to watch some of those seemingly ‘stupid’ sports.

So, should golfers not hike, or runners not play golf? I think we all have different tastes and limits. My experience is runners are used to speed; they get bored on hiking trails. They just want to get to the end, while for me, hiking is about taking it easy and making time to absorb nature and smell each moment. Would I have the patience to hold a stick and practice a swing to hit a small ball, hoping it will land in a hole or somewhere closer? Nope! And I have nothing against those who do that. In the same way that I do not have issues with people who cycle. I know my bum, well-cushioned as it is, doesn’t like repetitive movements, so no saddle for me! But for those whose bums are happy with the saddle, knock yourselves out!

I admire those who do triathlons. I admire runners, and I know my teammates (I just joined a work athletics club) look forward to me graduating from walking to running Comrades marathon. I may attend the Comrades marathon at some point but only to support them!

At the end

We are diverse, and so are our choices. We choose what works and makes us happy. I am all for ease and happiness. If it delights me, I will give it my all. If it feels like punishment, it’s not sustainable. Choose your poison and find a mix of what makes your hiking better. One step at a time.

Td

Hiking with a baby

 

I never thought I would write about this, let alone contemplate hiking with a baby. I guess that’s because the hiking bug bit when my ‘laat lammetjie’ was still a baby. Hiking with her was not an idea at the time, as I was still trying to find my way around the activity. She was not spared though. Recently, at a marathon, I heard one lady complaining about how unforgiving Hennops trail was. I smiled, remembering how my baby braved that trail when she was only 9. That was her maiden hike, and she was to do several more before she decided in her teens that hiking was not her poison.

We traversed several local trails before she made her choice.

I have always seen runners pushing their babies in their strollers and I never thought much of that. That was until last year when I was told I was going to be a granny. Each time I attended a marathon, I pictured myself with that stroller (I'm a walker). And now that he is here, I can’t wait to take him on his first hike! Yes, we'll do marathons, but after spending some time in nature.

Benefits

Hiking is exercise and exercise is always beneficial. So, who said just because you have a baby you cannot hike? Let both of you get some fresh air and bond in a different environment. Introduce the baby to nature so the love and appreciation of the outdoors can be ingrained. Our planet can do with more people who love and appreciate it. I know that having a newborn baby can be both physically and emotionally draining, but if you’re up to it, taking a stroll at a park or next to a body of water with your little one may be therapeutic. And I know that as Africans, we have a period where the baby should not be moving around to protect them from energies. So, I’m not suggesting you take your baby on a hike in the first month.

Safety first

Having had one too many falling episodes at hikes, I never thought I would one day wish to hike with a baby. Thankfully, while I still experience knee pain occasionally, my legs are strong enough to carry me; now they must carry me with my precious cargo. So yes, I’m preparing my body and mind for a little adventure with my new love. I also know that I will need to identify a very short and gentle trail so that both of us can fully enjoy the experience; no rugged terrains yet! A botanical garden will be a great start. If you have access to a botanical garden or a nearby park, that may be your option to introduce the little one to nature. I will share what I found as we continue exploring.

Baby carrier

Unlike running or walking, I don’t have the option of taking a stroller with me. I'm not even sure if they make them for rugged terrain, so for now, I'll stick with carrying the baby. I have carried a 65 kg bag on my back, but carrying a baby is a completely different kettle of fish. I know I am going to need a comfortable baby carrier. Fortunately, I have carried many babies on my back and dare I say, I carry a structure that makes the task very easy! And I do not believe in carrying a baby in front. I need my view and the use of my hands and, I have been taught that carrying a baby on the back shields them from bad energies. And I’m not going into the how!

I generally use a cloth to carry a baby on my back, but I know it will not be an option when I hike. Just as I need a balanced backpack, I need a balanced carrier. I need something comfortable for both of us so the little one can be snuggled in comfortably. It must have proper back support, padded shoulder straps and a supportive waist belt. For the little one, I need something that will support the neck and head. My search revealed some carriers with hoodies, which is a plus, as the baby will need to be shielded from the sun. Not that you should skip getting a hat for them. I will be going shopping, and I will test the different carriers, including the backpack carrier. Watch the space!

This you can only use once the child can sit on their own and with a good neck control.  (Photo from Outdoor warehouse page)

Be prepared

Just like you must prepare for your hike, you must be extra prepared when taking a baby to a hike. There are things you may be able to survive without, but the last thing you need is an uncomfortable baby crying throughout your trip. Of course, the first thing is to know the trail and how easy it will be for you to navigate it with your precious cargo. As indicated, shorter and easier trails will be your best bet until both of you are more comfortable with being on a trail together. Please check the weather and if there is a chance of rain, take that rain check!

Slow down and take breaks

I still enjoy hiking slowly to connect with nature so I don’t have to make special time for tree-hugging. When walking with other people, this is often impossible as some people want to finish quickly, or are keen to get to that waterfall or whatever awaits along the trail. I’m looking forward to enjoying the journey with my new love. And while nature is always king, I know he will be king too. He will determine how many breaks we take, and I will be ready to listen to his cues. I guess the parents, aunt, and uncle must be prepared to be part of the hike because I will need someone to carry his other essentials. And I promise you, they are going to have fun!

 One day, we'll hold hands on a trail...

Enjoy!

This piece is for all moms, dads, and grannies who may be new to hiking or are seasoned hikers who thought the arrival of a new one meant a total break from hiking. Hiking is still possible, albeit not without challenges. While you don’t need to conquer the Drakensberg with your baby, you can still enjoy nature with your little one. Just make sure you protect them from the sun and bugs and that you are fit to carry them on a hike. And remember that you will need extra clothing and a changing mat. Since I still have to explore this, I will share more as the journey continues. In the meantime, just take it one step at a time and make beautiful memories.

Don’t forget:

Camera!

A first-aid kit

Sunscreen, hat and bug spray

Baby food/milk etc.

Water and snacks

Nappies and wipes

Small blanket – for those breaks and picnicking

We can do this! One step at a time...!

 

Td

Hiking in the rain

 

 

I know some of you frowned at the topic. No, I’m not mad and I won’t leave my home for a hike while it’s raining. Does this mean I will never hike in the rain? No, it doesn't.

Proper rain gear is essential.

I have already mentioned that I prefer not to hike in summer because of the heat and the rain, which is sometimes accompanied by thunder and lightning. I also know and understand that nature is always king. This means that in your hiking journey, you will encounter rain at some point - whether by choice or accident - and you will have to finish what you started. You may avoid being caught in the rain by checking the weather forecast, but as already indicated, nature is king. Trying to plan your hikes around rain may lead to you missing out on some hikes because even forecasters may get it wrong. And if you do get caught in the rain, you may find yourself appreciating the different smells, including the earthy smell. Besides, if you’ve invested a lot in your hiking boots, you get to test their grip – just saying.

My humble advice to hikers is to pack your day backpack for any eventuality. It has become convenient to hike with a small backpack with just a water bladder and space for a few snacks but that may come with a huge cost.  

Be prepared

With nature being unpredictable, it is always best to be prepared. Most hikers know to always prepare for all possibilities. I learned this the hard way. In my earlier hiking days, I had an experience where we finished hiking in the dark and it was raining. At the time, I didn’t know the importance of always packing rain gear (even if it’s a light poncho) and a headlamp. I had to deal with my fear of heights, rain, thunder, and lightning  (being the only source of light) all at once when we crossed Hennops River with the manual cable car.  

Anyway…Here are some tips for the rainy season.

Rain gear: make sure you have a proper raincoat. Please do not go to the ‘kooperasie’ to get your raincoat as that will be too heavy. I can attest to that because some of us who started hiking when it was not yet fashionable, had to learn almost everything the hard way. Except for being waterproof,  your rain gear must be lightweight and breathable. This may be a bit more costly, but you cannot afford to be weighed down by your load and your gear. Just remember, if there is a heavy downpour, and you’re there for a long period, even the best gear will not protect you. Another thing, I am not much of a fan of rain pants, but if you don’t mind them, invest in a pair.

I have realised that a peak cap can be useful when it rains. Having it under the hood of your rain jacket can keep water off your face, meaning you won’t be dealing with water in your eyes.

Backpack cover: Make sure you buy a backpack with a cover. It is advisable to have a plastic liner inside your bag when on a multiday hike. A dry bag can be helpful to keep your electronics dry.

 Some ponchos can cover the day backpack.

Hiking shoes: Whether you are a runner or hiking boot babe, these can make or break your hike, especially when it rains. Here, my preference is clear. I am a hiking boot girl because I want that ankle support. Blame it on age! And they have not failed me yet. I’m grateful that I haven’t experienced how good they can be with holding water, maybe because I’ve never dealt with a heavy downpour. What I know for sure is that I try to make sure that I wear boots with a good traction to mitigate the risk of falling. Not that you won’t fall! Pack your gaiters as they will keep your socks drier for longer.

Socks: I prefer to always have a spare pair of socks, even on a day hike. Walking in wet socks is not ayoba as they say. Not only are they uncomfortable, but the friction can lead to blisters. We cannot even talk about what that would mean for the rest of your hike. Aim to keep your feet as dry as possible. If you sleep with socks on and you’re on a multiday hike, make sure you have a dry pair for sleeping. Add blister packs in your bag for good measure.

Dress in layers: I am not very good with layering because I either get too hot or feel like I’m suffocating. But layering is very good in cold and wet conditions. I try to wear thermal vests as they can keep me warm when it’s cold or wet and they dry easily, thanks to their breathability. A light fleece or a softshell jacket is ideal for cold conditions and as another layer underneath the rain jacket, provided it’s not too hot.  

Right tent: If you’re backpacking, please ensure that you have an appropriate tent and inspect it before leaving. The last thing you need is to be in Drakensberg Mountain only to realise that you have broken or missing camping poles. I’ve had one too many misses when it comes to tents, and that explains my dicey relationship with tents.  

Stay hydrated: When hiking, you continue to sweat even if it’s cold or raining. You need to keep drinking water to stay hydrated. A water bladder can be handy when it rains as it is easily accessible even when you have a raincoat or a poncho.

It is important to stay warm when hiking in the rain.

Beware of the dangers

While it is possible to hike in the rain, you must be aware of the possible dangers such as slipping and getting injured. Avoid taking unnecessary risks and river crossings as there may be a risk of drowning, especially if your swimming skills are suspect - like me. Staying wet for long may cause hypothermia, a condition where the body’s temperature drops too low while there’s no heat produced.

Be extra careful as the trail may be slippery.

At the end

Hiking or not hiking in wet weather is a choice, but most of the time, nature may just surprise you. While it may be unsettling for many, it’s better to always be prepared. You may just enjoy the fresh smell and different colours of the wet plants. Keep doing!

Td

My wish for 2025

 

At the end of each year, many people look back at the year that was and make plans or resolutions for the coming year. I used to be one of those, but over the years it no longer mattered. Not because I never achieved any of the things I resolved to do. But because I tend to act on impulse. Structure has never been my thing, and I know it will bore me to death. And structure includes having structured working hours!

(2017) Getting here was anything but easy.

Anyway, resolutions for most hikers usually include a bucket list of hiking trails. If you have a list, good luck, and I hope you get to tick off some of those trails on your list and create beautiful memories in the process. I just remembered a moment on the Machu Picchu citadel after years of having the picture of the place on my wall. The high altitude made this the roughest hike I ever experienced but it was also the most memorable. Even though I’ve never had a hiking bucket list, I have always wished to walk the Spain Camino and Machu Picchu. I still hope that one day, I will have the mental, physical, emotional, and financial fitness to go on the five-week pilgrimage.  

Ease

What I wish for myself is ease. We have been taught to work hard and to fight to get what we want. I have done all that and some, and all I have to show is exhaustion. I am tired of feeling tired. I need some ease! In everything I do, I need ease. I hope that even the most challenging mountain I will face this year will be trodden with ease. I wish for ease in all the different types of relationships and encounters. And I wish the same for you if, like me, you’re tired of being tired!

Staying fit

I’ve always tried my best to keep my fitness in check. Last year, I had some health issues that affected my fitness routine. I tried my best, and it was almost always a strife. I hope my fitness journey will be less stressful this year so I can have less stressful hikes. And I promise myself to do more yoga to improve my flexibility. This is also a reminder to you, as a hiker, to keep fit so you enjoy time spent in nature with less stress.

Taking better care of my feet

Hikers need strong legs to carry them and their baggage, but do you know the importance of caring for your feet? What happens when you get a blister during a hike? That’s your whole trip ruined! Anyway, there are ways to keep your feet happy, including giving them a good Epsom salt soak occasionally and soaking them in cold water after being physical. I love walking barefoot, mostly because I like feeling connected to Earth - and maybe because I’m rural like that - but that causes my feet to be dry and hard. This requires extra care and extra moisturisation. A good soak and moisturising your feet (Vaseline works) can do wonders for your dry feet, and putting on socks will keep them soft. It is essential to soften your feet when preparing for long hikes to avoid blisters.  Oh! And please keep your toenails very short! Thank me later!

Introduce one person to hiking

Last year, I introduced a sister-friend to hiking, and I’m confident that despite the injury she suffered, she will be back this year and possibly joining weekend hikes. My chat with a stranger also led to them exploring short hikes, which they reportedly enjoyed. I had hoped to introduce one or two more people to the healing space, which is nature. I haven’t given up hope yet, and I look forward to sharing the outdoors with more new people. Have you already started? Do you have someone you want to introduce to hiking?

Some hikes not only reward you with beautiful views...

Take care of the environment

Each time I go hiking and I see litter, my heart bleeds. In the past few weeks, I saw a level of litter that touched me too deeply. I do not understand why we choose to pollute the environment, yet we expect it to continue taking care of us and future generations. We are quick to bemoan the unpleasant weather and yet we fail to see our contribution. I cannot talk about big companies and other businesses and the mess they cause to the environment. But I know that if you and I do something, no matter how small, we are making a difference.

One of the waterfalls at Kgaswane Nature Reserve

Volunteer for environment clean-ups and/or trail maintenance

Being a hiker has made me appreciate the environment more. And I understand the need to do my bit where the environment is concerned. I have, in the past, found myself in spaces where I had to do my part, either cleaning up spaces or even dealing with alien species. The fulfilment! This reminds me of one of the nature reserves that were instrumental in building the hiker I am, or is it was? Kgaswane Nature Reserve boasts two beautiful and challenging weekend trails, which many of us have used to prepare for more challenging hikes. It pains me that the place is now dilapidated with the trails not maintained. Maybe I should call on all hikers willing to volunteer to restore the trails and huts at Kgaswane to their former glory, to come together so we can devise a plan. What do you think? Even new hikers can join! Or is there a trail that you feel needs hikers to intervene? I know we can do this!

Getting hands dirty for a good cause.

Support a friend pursuing an epic outdoor activity

Nothing pulls my heartstrings like knowing that someone believes in what I’m doing and is willing to give me support. While hikers do not get prizes, medals, or awards, conquering a rugged mountain is all the medals we need. I have supported fellow hikers prepare for serious summits such as Kilimanjaro. And I have always wanted to be on the side of the road cheering for those running the Comrades Marathon. And this year, I hope to be there - in cheerleader gear - to support some of the brave ones I know during the Comrades Marathon. How is that? Who will you support? A hiker? A cyclist? A runner? Let’s be creative!

At the end

I hope you enjoy beautiful hikes with as much ease and flow as possible, doing it one step at a time. And while at that, let’s save the environment for future generations, one mindful act at a time.

 

Td

Safe hiking in Twenty Twenty-THRIVE

As the year ends, I hope you were able to go hiking, even if it was once or a few times only; that through hiking, you were able to escape the daily noise and connect with nature and you still want more!  Being in tune with nature allows you to forget your worries and connect with your inner self. While being in nature can be refreshing, it may also expose you to certain dangers for which you should be prepared.

Our country, South Africa,  with its beautiful mountains, beaches and waterfalls, boasts a range of the most beautiful hiking trails and routes in the world. This post aims to give you advice to ensure you enjoy the splendour that this country has to offer while remaining safe.  

Safety in numbers

While hiking solo can be good for your soul, there are safety issues to consider and given the number of mugging incidents at some trails, it is not advisable to hike solo. It is not only about the danger of being attacked by human beings or animals, but there may be other risks that can be better mitigated in a group setting. And while in a group, sticking together is key. It is advisable to take the pace of the slowest member of the group, but this may sometimes not work. Depending on the group size, the fast hikers may be in front while the slow ones remain behind, but with a strong hiker among them. There also must be a way of communicating between the slow and fast hikers.

Communication

I once had an experience during a hike in the beautiful rainforest of Magoebaskloof where our group of 10 ended up being divided into four groups. The group had initially been divided into two – slow and fast. Typically these divisions just happen without a plan. And because when hiking, one sometimes gets into a meditative state, I found myself at some stage, being alone while I had been walking with two other people while the other two were in front. When I called out, the people in front responded and waited for me to catch up with them; in my mind, I believed that the two I was walking with probably waited for the other group. Needless to say, there was a comedy of errors on that day, with people circling the same area several times and others having to go look for them. That was a big lesson in communication. And I owe a brother from Harambe Hiking Club a big apology for our entire group’s revolt towards his advice at the time. It had been a long day, and emotions were very high.

The orange whistle is not just an accessory. It is a means of communication.

When I started hiking, the issue of safety was always in my mind and among the first things I bought, was a whistle with a compass. And I still can’t really use a compass. But that whistle has been blown so many times. Some backpacks have built-in whistles on the sternum/chest strap for easy access.  And I know some hikers are not even aware of that. I know this because it took a while for me to notice that I had one and, therefore, no longer needed the one I used to attach to my bag with a carabiner. According to Scoutwiki, the international distress signal is to blow three blasts on the whistle, and keep repeating this for one minute, then pause for a minute, then repeat for another minute. You must repeat this until you get help.

Another way of ensuring good communication is the use of two-way radios to ensure the group stays in touch. This means you must consider the range and ensure that you’re always within that range. Also ensure that the batteries are charged enough to last until you finish hiking.

Know the trail

It is important to research the trail you intend hiking and get as much information as possible. If available, make sure you have a map and can use it. Having a good GPS device and knowing how to use it is even better. I once had an experience where our group missed the trail just at the beginning. And this, after another group had the same fate the day before and had warned us of the possibility of getting lost and how to avoid that. How smart of us to get lost even after that caution. And while we were aware that we are lost, we went on to hike 10 km before deciding it was best to return to where we started, knowing very well that we may not even have a place to sleep as it was a multiday hike. The Drakensberg is known for inclement weather and hikers know to aim to be at the next hut by 14:00 for their safety. We walked the other 10 km with black clouds forming above us, and we had to dig even deeper to make sure we arrived before it started to rain. And lady luck was on our side because yes, we made it and before we could begin to reflect on our lack of wisdom on that day, the heavens started pelleting down some serious hail.

In the bush, nature is king!

Weather

We all know nothing is as unpredictable as the weather, but knowing the expected weather is crucial to staying safe on a hike. While there is gear to protect you during stormy weather, there is always a chance of slipping and getting injured. There are terrains you don’t want to face in the rain! Hiking in extreme heat can also affect your pace. When it’s extremely hot, make sure you have enough water to avoid dehydration. South Africa generally has a diverse climate, so research the area you intend exploring as there are areas that experience rain in summer while others experience it in winter, and others experience winter snow while others don’t.

The ladder may be slippery if it rains

First aid kit

I cannot over-emphasise the importance of this. I never went hiking without a first aid kit, regardless of how short or near. Today, I have the nerve to go on multiday hikes without one. Reason? Complacency or stupidity! I recently had a rude awakening when a friend got injured during a hike. I didn’t even have a muscle spray. And neither did other hikers that passed us. What happened to preparing for emergencies? Please get yourself a proper hiking first aid kit and make sure it has an emergency blanket. It is also important for all group members to disclose their medical conditions and carry their medication.

I think it is important for all hikers to do a basic first aid course to know what to do in emergencies. And I know I’ve promised myself to attend one since forever.

Finally

These are just the basics; understanding the trail you intend to explore will give you an idea of what you will need for your safety. I will provide you with some numbers to contact for emergencies. Just remember:

·       Research your trail

·       Start as early as possible and avoid late starts

·       Understand the weather

·       Have navigation tools and map

·       Have communication tools (cell phones, whistle, two-way radios)

·       Dress appropriately

·       Rest where necessary

·       Never leave an injured person alone

·       Pack your backpack accordingly

·       Don’t skimp on hydration and food/snacks

·       Prepare for emergencies (first aid kit, ropes, repair kits, extra socks)

·       Always carry a torch and lighter/matches

 

Emergency numbers

• 112 (any emergency)
• 10111 (police)
• 10177 (ambulance)

Mountain rescue

·       KwaZulu-Natal – 031 307 7744

·       Western Cape – 021 948 9900

·       Gauteng – 074 125 1385/074 163 3952

As everybody seems to concur, 2024 - with all its blessings and beauty - was a bit rough for most of us. For the first time in many years, I had to be content with hiking locally only, and only a few times. I am looking forward to more hikes in Twenty Twenty-Thrive. 

Please remember to be gentle with yourself and stay safe. 

Td 

Be gentle with yourself

So, I didn't post anything in the month of November, not because there was nothing to post. I had to learn to be gentle with myself and really dish myself the same kindness and compassion that I always share with others. I had to learn not to berate myself just because I could not post a single blog for the whole month. And I had to learn to listen to my body as it screamed for a break! 

We live in a world where we constantly compete with ourselves and others, whether consciously or subconsciously. We are taught to have 'measurable' goals, and when we don't meet them, we feel like failures. And many of us bow to this societal pressure to our detriment. I've heard young people saying 'at my big age...' and I guess 'at my very big age,' I should know better than to compromise both my physical and mental health trying to reach a goal and maybe some praise. May I declare now! I was not able to post anything in November and I am not a failure! 

Nature offers us time to relax and reflect. Use it.

When I thought of this blog for beginner hikers, I planned to post one article a month. And then I read somewhere that you must be consistent so readers don't forget you, and that's how I opted for weekly posts; big mistake if you ask me! The more I did that, the more I realised that I was stretching myself too thin, given my other commitments. I then resorted to two posts a month; that went well until November happened. Somehow, I found myself snowed under, and despite writing an article at some point, I did not have the energy to give it a final check before posting it, and just like that, weeks went by until November came to an end without me posting anything.

I'm writing this after doing a 10 km walk this morning, literally from the coach.  This after dealing with swollen feet for more than two weeks. I've been frustrated as even doctors could not explain the source of my water retention. This made me doubt whether I should continue with the walk as I was even experiencing some pain. Anyway, the 10 km is behind me; it was a bit rough, given my fitness or lack thereof, but it's done.

I'm sharing all these because as a hiker, there will be moments when you won't be able to go on hikes because of one thing or the other. And there will be moments when you'll go for a hike and return feeling like you've been hit by a truck. That is okay. I planned a multiday hiking trip for May this year and I could not join the group because of my health. And while that was not a nice pill to swallow, I had to accept that everything happens for a reason. I'm still not sure what the reason was, but other people were able to go on that hike and enjoyed it.

Whenever you find yourself on a hiking trail and you find that you cannot walk as fast as you're used to, that may be nature asking you to slow down. Give yourself the gift of slowing down and smelling the moment. Use that moment to be in touch with your environment and absorb nature as much as possible. If you need to take a break, please do. I hope if you're hiking with other people, they'll be considerate enough and also be gentle with you. We all can do with some gentleness in our lives, regardless of where we may be.

There's beauty all around.

I'm sure I'm not talking for myself only when I say 2024, with all its many blessings, has been a somewhat rough year. The roughness may have shown up as ill-health, losing people, bad choices, financial issues, work issues, and so on. What's important is that we're here, and we can still count the good that happened despite all the bad we may have experienced. And what's even more important is for us not to judge ourselves or our situations harshly. Let's be gentle with ourselves and others. As the young ones say, all of us 're a gowisha'. 

I wish you gentleness and ease during this festive season, and if you're still hiking, enjoy it. I have never been able to hike in this heat and I respect those who are able to. Just make sure you're well-hydrated and please protect your skin from the harsh UV rays. 

Td