Introduction to Alpinism

• Mountaineering is often called Alpinism, especially in European languages.
• Alpinism implies climbing difficult high mountains such as the Alps.
• A mountaineer with great skill is called an Alpinist.
• The word alpinism originated in the 19th century.
• Alpinism refers to climbing for the purpose of enjoying the sport/recreation itself.
• Alpinism is distinct from climbing while hunting or as religious pilgrimage.
• Mountain climbing has been gaining popularity.
• The number of mountaineering groups or clubs has increased.
• This includes school-based organizations and groups from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
• Climbing mountains encompasses a wide range of outdoor skills.
• Romy Garduce is the first Filipino who was able to reach the highest peaks of each continent.
• He scaled the nature's Goliaths, which means he survived extreme weather and environmental conditions.
• For a mountaineer, the climbs are rated or graded by the challenges and difficulties in ascending a mountain.
• The Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) describes mountain terrains according to the techniques and physical difficulties encountered during the climb.
• The National Climbing Classification System describes the overall nature of a climb.

Hiking vs. Trekking

• Hiking and trekking are associated with walking and backpacks.
• Hiking is done on man-made roads or well-made trails.
• Hiking is shorter in distance, which sometimes takes a day or two.
• Trekking is more rigorous, is done over a variety of terrain, and takes more days and nights in the outdoor.

History of Mountaineering

• In the 18th century natural philosophers began trips to the Alps of Europe for scientific observation.
• Horace-Benedict de Saussre, a young Genevese scientist, was challenged by the height of Mont Blanc.
• Saussre offered prize money for whoever was able to reach its summit
• In 1786 the prize money was claimed by doctor Michael Gabriel Paccard and his porter, Jaques Balmat.
• A year later, de Saussre himself was able to conquer the summit of Mont Blanc.
• It led to the start of mountaineering as a contemporary sport or activity.
• In 1850, a group of British, Swiss, and Italian Climbers scaled the high peaks of Switzerland.
• Mountaineering was then being distinguished as a sport as more and more climbers were conquering peaks throughout Europe.
• Jose Oyanguren & Señor Real were the first two Filipinos who attempted to reach the higher peak, Mt. Apo, but failed.
• In Oct. 10, 1880 a successful expedition led by Don Joaquin Rajal was recorded.

Preparing for a Hike or Trek

• It is important that one should be in a good health and is reasonably fit.
• It is also very important to seek clearance first from your doctor in case some medical conditions need consideration.
• Planning is a basic activity to any activity.
• Most activities end up successful and even disastrous due to poor planning or no planning at all.
• If a trip will entail just a day and you are planning it among yourselves, then it is best to research and explore possible locations that will match your skills level and limitations with time and budgets.
• You must check the weather conditions, terrains, trails, and requirements, if any, should be taken into consideration when planning.
• Talking to people who have experienced the activity would also be helpful as they can share useful knowledge and advice.
• Plan your itinerary and make sure to leave it to someone so they can check on you or your own expected return.

Hiking Essentials

• A backpack is very important during a hike, since everything that one will be needing is carried in this pack.
• You need to wear shoes that are the most important equipment.

Trekking Poles

• Trekking poles have a maximum length 135 cm (54 inches).
• Trekking poles are often made into two or three sections and can be retracted or extended as necessary.
• Trekking poles are essential aide for those with knee problems.

Nutritional Considerations for Hiking

• Calorie requirement for the activity
• Manageability to load, carry, store, and cook the food
• Duration of the activity

Basic Skills in Hiking

• Setting a Hiking Pace means the hiker sets a pace (length or speed) to make the body feel good.
• The heart, lungs, and legs become the monitor whether one is within his/her pace or not.
• Establishing Your Rhythm means rhythm is the pace one can maintain a long time without requiring a break.
• Practice breathing and have it synchronized with steps.
• It is essential to Take Breaks to give the heart, lungs, and muscles a chance to rest a bit.
• Breaks will also give time to check whether one has sore spots or any potential problem which was unnoticed while walking.

Other Essential Things to Bring

• First aid kit
• Water
• Trail food
• Topographic map or compass
• Extra layers and rain gear
• Fire starter and matches
• Multi-tool or knife
• Flashlight or headlamp and extra battery
• Sunscreen or sunglass
• Insect repellant
• Camera/binocular
• Cellphone/two-way radios
• GPS/Altimeter watches
• Extra batteries for mobile devices/memory card

Safety Reminders with the acronym HIKE

• H-ike with a group and never alone.
• I-nstructions from guides, facilitators, or leader should be given utmost attention.
• K-eep in mind and heart the Leave No Trace Seven Principles
• E-nsure safety of self and others.