Winter Swimming Is Quite Beneficial

When you think of swimming during the winter months, you probably think of groups like the Polar Bear Club who are known for their annual New Year's Day dip in the ocean, regardless of the temperature. You probably think that they're crazy for doing something like that. what's wrong with them. Well, nothing actually, as it's been done for centuries with some claiming that it actually has positive health benefits.

Swimming in cold weather can jump start your system, so to speak, but overall it's a mental configuration of getting acclimated to the temperature of the water.
Why? Because it's there and who seriously doesn't like a challenge? Even despite the cold weather, some may just slap on a pair of swim trunks and take the plunge for the heck of it. Aside from the apparent "Hey, I did it!" appeal of winter swimming, there are actually many religious connections involved. In Eastern Europe, many do it as a way of celebrating the baptism of Jesus, while others claim that it's a way of purifying the soul, which may be why many jump into freezing water on New Year's Day as way to start from scratch.

Ice cold water can be a jolt to your system at first. However, if you haven't swam for a while, or aren't in the best shape, it can have serious effects. If you're not adjusted to the temperature, you can start to get cold and have issues with losing your body heat; your muscles can actually slow down causing weakness in your limbs.

This is one reason why you may want to limit the amount of time you actually spend in cold water. Hypothermia can occur when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees, which can lead to additional heart issues as well as respiratory failure.

You can also run the risk of shock, hypothermia, cramping and even heart attacks, if you're not prepared. If you do happen to have heart issues, then you should avoid swimming in cold water entirely…the shock of the cold water alone could actually kill you.

If you're not sure that this is for you, then you should consult a doctor to make sure you're in the best shape for winter swimming. But before you turn yourself into an ice cube, be sure that you have the appropriate equipment for cold water swimming. In this case you want to get yourself a full body wetsuit, that will help keep you warm.

Most wetsuits are made out of neoprene and you'll find overall that most wetsuits will have small bubbles that help insulate between the water and your body. Small traces of water may seep seep through the wetsuit at first, but the water will eventually adjust to your body temperature.

You also don't want to get your head wet, so it's not a bad idea to invest in a neoprene diving hood which comes in a variety of thicknesses ranging from 3-7mm. You could also wear a diving cap underneath the hod, to help keep water out of your ears, with the main goal of keeping your head warm. Also neoprene dive booties and gloves will be a great benefit in cold water swimming, with no adverse reactions to whatever strokes you plan on using.

You Must Remember These Mountain Hiking Tips

Are you thinking of taking a hiking trip, but want to ensure you are well aware of the best tips in keeping yourself safe during your venture? If so, there are many mountain hiking tips you can utilize to ensure that you aren't a victim of any unfortunate accidents. Although sometimes there are times when an accident may be out of your hands, you should still do all you can to ensure that you are able to enjoy your mountain hiking venture without being at the mercy of nature. You should also ensure that you are ready for the hike before you take it on, able to fend for yourself and well prepared.

You never know what can happen, and even if you are an avid hiker, you could fall into a situation where coming prepared is extremely essential. Bringing food and water is necessary no matter whether you end up in peril or not, but having extra snacks and water can ensure that any hiccup is covered. If you get lost or turned around, having a little extra can go a long way. Make sure you also bring antihistamines, epinephrine if you have allergies, and other essential first aid items just in case.

There is nothing worse than taking a blind adventure. If you don't know where you are going, that is exactly what you are doing. If you aren't careful, you could end up lost for hours, or worse. There are many perils in taking a mountain hike, and one of the most essential mountain hiking tips is to always keep your map. Map out your course before you even begin, making sure to mark your travel just in case. There are so many in cases you should consider and having a map, as well as a compass could actually save your life in many situations.

If you aren't careful, you can easily stray into unsafe land, which could put yourself and anyone you are with at risk. There are many times when signs will be posted if the issue is not new, and these signs should be followed. You should always adhere to warnings and tips that are posted around your hiking trail. These warnings and tips are out there to assist you on your hike and ensure you stay on a safe path both on the incline and decline.

Mountain hiking tips should be taken in carefully as they could mean the difference between a safe and dangerous hike through the mountains. Whether a beginner or an advanced hiker, you should be sure that you always keep these tips in mind. You never want to be vulnerable in nature as it can conquer you quicker than you think. Staying safe means staying prepared and making sure that you have everything you need, with full understanding of the rules of hiking.

Safety is always first, and no matter what never veer away from a path if you aren't sure where you are going. When the sun begins to go down, veering off a pathway could be extremely dangerous and could cost you your life. Having hiking buddies with you can always be a much safer method to mountain hiking, ensuring that you are able to maintain control of the venture. Any adventure outdoors is thrilling but without safety and a full understanding of the most important mountain hiking tips, you will regret your adventure.

Rock Climbing Shoes Are So Important For Rock Climbers

Rock climbing is so popular all over the world among the adults and young people, so rock climbing shoes will serve as the barrier between the cliff face and the climber; because of this, selecting an incorrect style or fit will hold them back. Whilst the majority of outdoor climbers will own several pairs of shoes, the climbing 'staple' that every climber should have is a pair of all-day shoes. As your climbing style and goals develop, you can add shoes that are designed to address the demands of the sport.

Consider what your climbing agenda is and this will help you to determine what outdoor equipment you will need; perhaps it is off-widths, cracks, bouldering or gym climbing. For bouldering, for instance, very lightweight climbing shoes for general climbing, as well as a pair of lace-up, downturned shoes for steep sections of the rock may be required. Having different shoes for various overhangs and routes will make the experience not only safer, but more enjoyable too.

All day comfort climbing shoes are ideal for those who take part in different types of climbing on a regular basis, as these work well for both outdoor and indoor climbing, from beginner up to intermediate skill levels. It should have the fit of a running shoe, with the tip of the longest toe only just coming into contact with the end of the shoe. If you decide to buy more than one pair of shoes, it's a good idea to rotate the use of them. This will encourage you to develop your footwork, as each style of rock climbing shoe enables a different type of climb. This approach also helps to prevent any sections of the shoe becoming worn out from being used too often.

The shoe that you choose should be slip-lasted; a 'last', in this case, is the foot-shaped, solid model around which the manufacturer builds the shoe. It is the last that provides the shoe with their anatomical shape; heel and toe widths and dimensions, instep volume and height. Whilst hiking and mountaineering boots are usually board-lasted, rock climbing shoes need to be slip-lasted. This 'sock' is then removed from over the shoe's last and the midsole is then stuck on with glue. This provides the correct amount of tension required for rock climbing footwork.

In a running or a tennis shoe, it is the last that gives the shoe its entire shape; however, with rock climbing shoes, there is tensioned sections of rubber along the sides, meaning that the last's shape only provides some of the final fit. Look out for rock climbing shoes that have semi-flexed lasts, sometimes referred to as traditional lasts. These tend to be the most comfortable to wear for longer climbers. The toe should turn up very slightly, as this allows the foot to roll. Whilst these details may seem too technical to the novice climbing, it's important to remember that a good pair of rock climbing shoes will keep your safe whilst you're hanging from a cliff and consequently, are a crucial piece of your outdoor equipment for climbing.