Hiking Club

I had a great long weekend surfing and kicking back in Tofino. The only problem was the trip was too short!!! Tofino is a place I could definitely spend my summer.

In my last post I mentioned that one of the key factors in sticking with an exercise program is to join a group of like minded people in an activity you enjoy. I usually teach courses on Wednesdays but decided not to this summer so I had my evenings free and was thinking of doing something to help people keep in shape.

I've done clinics and bootcamps in the past but didn't feel like doing that again. Working out is great and all but I wanted something different and it seemed like many other people did too.

So I've decided to start up a hiking club beginning Weds. July 9. We'll be doing hikes on the North Shore but will NOT be doing the Grouse Grind.

I'm keeping this simple so it will be on a drop-in basis. Major details below:

Dates: July 9 to Aug. 27 (except July 16. I'll explain why in another email; it entails me suffering through a punishing workout to raise money for a kids charity).

Day & Times: Weds. at 6:30 p.m.

Location: North & West Vancouver. Specific locations will be emailed.

Cost: $10/hike; drop-in format.

Gear: Hiking boots or trail runners. Hiking poles if you like but I don't recommend them. Water bottle, camelback or other hydration system a must! More specific list will be emailed.

Dogs: Welcome (as long as they're well behaved).

FAQ's:

How long will the hikes be?
They will take between 60-90 minutes each (as long as I don't get us lost. Kidding!)

How difficult are the hikes?
The hikes will be intermediate level. You don't have to be an alpine climber but it is the North Shore so the terrain can be rocky, rooty, muddy, slippery, slick, wet, dry, steep in sections and gnarly. Some sections may be gravel and level.

Is it really hilly? Will we be going up or downhill?
The terrain will be varied and yes we will be going up and down hill.

Do I have to be in super-condition to do these?
No, you don't have to be an uber-athlete. But given everything I've said above, this isn't your leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood (unless you live in a log cabin in the mountains). However, if you're reasonable shape you should be fine to do these. Some of the hill climbs might be challenging but they will not be the duration of the Grouse Grind. The purpose is to have fun while being active so its not a race.

Email me if you're interested and I'll send you the specific details of each week's hike. My goal is to show you some of the spectacular places you can find right in our own backyard.

C.

www.ultrafitness.net