Wild and Barefoot

Are you ready to check out a new adventure? Before you go, it is important to be prepared. Hiking is not without its risks. When you are adventuring with young children it is especially important to prepare for any situations that may arise on the trail. Lets cover 5 basic adventure risk factors and how to avoid them: 1. Inclement Weather Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and weather conditions can change rapidly in mountainous regions or dense forests. Hikers may encounter sudden rainstorms, high winds, or even snowfall, which can lead to hypothermia, reduced visibility, or treacherous trail conditions.    How to avoid risk:  Stay informed about the weather forecast Dress in layers Pack essential rain gear  2. Physical Injuries Hiking often involves traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, and potentially slippery surfaces. Falls, sprains, and strains are common risks faced by hikers. Always carry a first aid kit in your backpack!   How to avoid risk: Wear sturdy and appropriate foo

      As a parent, finding time to exercise can be a challenge. Between taking care of your kids, cooking meals, cleaning, teaching lessons if you homeschool, playing, setting up art/science projects, and working, it can feel like there's no time left in the day for yourself. But what if I told you there was a workout that you could do while spending time with your kids?  That's right, I’m talking about rucking.     Rucking is a workout that involves walking with a weighted backpack. In fact, rucking is used by the military to increase soldiers’ strength and endurance. Don’t let that intimidate you, though! Rucking is a low-impact exercise that's perfect for people who want to get in shape but don't have a lot of extra time to go to a gym or stay on a consistent workout routine.     Did you know research shows that you burn 40-50% more calories if you add weight to a brisk walk? If the weight in your ruck happens to be a child, the weight will naturally increase over ti