09/09/2021
Happy September!
🙁No changes to report regarding our Protocol/Safety at this Clinic.
😎Stephen and I did another hike last weekend (see pictures - was hard to pick a few🤷♂️).
🏞We took on the challenge of doing Jack's Trail, also known as Augerpoint Trail, starting from the trailhead on Buttle Lake. Some do the traverse between Raven's Lodge at Mt. Washington and this trailhead.
🧗♂️Be warned that the first 5km of the trail is about 1300m of climbing 20 to 30 to 40 percent grade. 😰!! This ascent and descent are a real test of strength and endurance. It was a major quads workout; even Stephen complained (not just the old guy!).
This was a good test to see if I practice what I preach.
My preparation checklist:
✅ pacing myself and training with graduated progressions to work up to my goal
✅ endurance training by continuing my running program
✅ strength training, including some hiking with loads in a backpack (I can always do more strength training)
During the hike:
✅ pacing myself, taking breaks and knowing my limitations (sometimes it's hard to know them when I'm feeling good)
✅ injury prevention by doing the above and using good mechanics of my ankles, knees and back (also watching where you are going while getting distracted by the scenery)
✅ lots of limbering/stretching before, during, and especially after the activity
Also, I have to learn to work at the level my body can tolerate👴 and not try to do what my young self could do👦.
😵I was pretty stiff and sore for a few days after, but doing lots of limbering helped to gradually work that out🛀.
Remember - motion is lotion.
👍I am fortunate to be able to still go out and enjoy these trips. The only way I'll be able to continue doing this is to stay in good physical condition and do the necessary preparation.
🌧Although we got fairly wet on the last day, it was a great hike with awesome views🌄. I would only recommend this route if you are ready for a very demanding hike.
