Mountaineering

Mountaineering is a recreational activity that is considered a sport, leisure activity, past-time, and a scientific study. It evolved from the need to conserve energy on long, steep climbs. Engaging in mountaineering allows individuals to appreciate the beauty of nature and venture into mountains.

Reasons Why People Engage in Mountain Hiking

• For Discovery
• For Exploration
• For Curiosity

Proper Etiquette in Mountain Hiking

• Be friendly.
• Greet your fellow mountaineers.
• Don’t feed the animals.
• Remember the LNT (Leave No Trace) Principle.
• Respect the beliefs that surround the mountain you’re about to climb.

Safety Protocols in Mountaineering

• Dehydration – Excessive loss of water from the body.
  Solution: Must take fluids (water).
• Hypothermia – Excessively low body temperature.
  Solution: Patient may take hot fluids.
• Hyperthermia – Excessively high body temperature.
  Solution: Patient may take cold fluids.
• Overexertion – An overload syndrome.
  Solution: Take a rest.

Benefits of Mountaineering

• Strengthening Muscles & Good Stretch – Burns calories, increases core strength, flexibility, and coordination.
• Training Strength & Endurance – Improves hiking and climbing skills.
• Restoring Peace of Mind – Helps balance mental processes and fights depression and anxiety.
• Acquisition of New Social Connections – Develops social awareness and builds relationships.

Things to Consider Before Hiking

1. Physical & Mental Preparations – Staying calm is essential.
2. Judgment & Technical Knowledge – Acquiring basic mountain hiking skills.
3. Cardiovascular & Respiratory Health – Ensuring physical readiness.
4. Weather Consideration – Checking weather forecasts.
5. Equipment Consideration – Ensuring all necessary gear is ready.
6. Physical Condition – The body must be prepared for strenuous activity.
7. Narrowing Trip Choices – Considering the capabilities of all hikers.
8. Creating a Route Plan – Determining distance, difficulty, and terrain.

Climb Organization & Roles

1. Team Leader

Responsibilities/Duties:

• Set clear objectives and check group information.
• Inspect group equipment.
• Conduct health checks.
• Make a fire for temporary light at night.
• Know first aid procedures.
• Address dangers such as fatigue, indecision, and hunger.
• Inspect the bags of team members.
• Conduct orientation before the hike.
• Identify the Point of No Return (the point beyond which returning is no longer practical).
• Never send someone alone for help.
• Keep the group together.

2. The Medic

Should have a thorough knowledge of first aid techniques.

3. The Scribe

Responsible for documenting the details of the climb.

4. The Tailman

Responsible for bringing up the rear and ensuring no one is left behind.

Trivia

Moses – A disciple of God who went on a mountain hike to receive the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai for 40-45 days.