Common Mistakes People Make When Climbing a Mountain
As Alexander Pope wrote in his work ‘An Essay on Criticism’ – ‘all people commit sins and make mistakes.’ Everyone can make a mistake – it’s part of being human. Even the best climbers make them – after all, just because they have a little bit more experience doesn’t mean that they are perfect.
Want to find out more about what are some of the most common mistakes people make when climbing a mountain? All you have to do is keep reading.
Wrong Training
No matter which travel agency you ask – Kandoo Adventures, World Expeditions, Bamba Experience, and so on – it is very probable that you will hear the same thing. Proper training is a crucial part of preparation. Some people seem to have a wrong belief that just because the mountain they want to climb is not that high, they don’t need any training. Nothing could be further from the truth. Being fit is not enough.
So how can you prepare properly? Well, the best way to prepare for climbing is to… climb. Start with hills, and then, gradually, move to higher mountains. If you don’t have any near you, you can prepare yourself at the gym by doing a lot of cardio, training on running machines, and swimming.
Not Eating or Drinking Enough
Climbing a mountain is an activity that requires high levels of energy. That’s why it’s important that you eat and drink properly – before and during the climb. Remember – when you are in the mountains, every calorie matters.
One of the common mistakes people make is bringing their favorite food, thinking that it will give them enough energy. Unfortunately, they are wrong. Since climbing makes you burn calories a lot faster than normal, regular food will not be good enough. Also, proper hydration is crucial – water will be your best friend on a climb.
Not Knowing How to Read the Map or Doing It Poorly
When you go to a new city, you probably don’t use a map – after all, usually the best way to get to know the city is by just strolling through it. There’s nothing wrong with that – if you get lost, you can always ask someone. Even if you don’t speak their native language, there is bound to be someone who speaks English.
However, the situation is completely different in the mountains. There’s rarely someone there – sometimes, it might take a few hours before you stumble upon a human being. Let’s also not forget about the animals living there. All in all, getting lost in the mountains is definitely not an option.
If it’s your first time climbing a mountain, and you did not hire a guide, you will need to use a map. However, unless you know how to use it properly, it won’t be of much use. All it takes to get off trek and stumble into a dangerous location is missing one single sign.
This is why, before going on a climb, you need to learn how to use a map – preferably together with a compass. This will help you understand your location better, and in case you get lost, it might help you get back on the trek.
Not Using Appropriate Gear
Climbing a mountain is one of the most beautiful experiences of your life, but also one of the most dangerous – especially if you make the mistake of going unprepared. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you have the right clothing and gear – it will make your adventure more pleasant.
When it comes to clothing, there are three things you need to pay special attention to – shoes, jackets, and pants. If you don’t have proper shoes, you will have to deal with a lot of pain in your toes and heels. The right jacket and pants will keep you warm, as when you go up the mountain, the temperature becomes lower and lower. This is especially important when climbing in places with a cold climate.
If you are going to climb a mountain located in a place where it rains a lot, remember to bring waterproof gear that will help you withstand the weather conditions. Also, keep in mind that it’s important to bring the old pair of shoes, if you buy new ones and use them for the first time on the hike, you might be experiencing a lot of pain.
Remember – when you are on a hike, it’s not about looking good. It’s all about being comfortable and warm.
The Bottom Line
Everyone makes mistakes – that’s part of what makes us human. Even people with years and years of experience can do something in the wrong way. However, when it comes to climbing mountains, the matter is a little more serious, as one mistake is all it takes to be put in a dangerous position.
We hope you will be more careful after reading this, and you will try your best not to make those mistakes. Good luck!
