A good rhythm in gait makes tramping easier

Press, 4 May 1978, Page 14

A good rhythm in gait makes tramping easier

By

BEN HOPE

There is an art in tramping that can be acquired only through experience. It is a matter of relaxation, of bending at ti.e knees and developing a sense of rhythm. Develop a long stride and relax. You will find that with a loos e-jointed action, tramping becomes easier. In developing this walking rhythm it’s obviously necessary to avoid stumbling over logs and boulders. Next time you slip or stumble notice just how much it sets you back.

Every few paces glance at the ground ahead, memorising any obstructions. If you are hunting you’ll find it easy after practice, to look for game and to see where you are going at the same time.

When you are tramping, particularly with a pack on, do not waste your breath by talking. When you feel like a breather stop, but don’t sit down. It is often better to stop at the top of a hill or ridge, rather than half-way up the slope. It’s all a matter of psychology.

There is an irresistible impulse to drink at every stream you come to. Resist it and you’ll find your walking easier. By drinking water or sucking snow or ice you use up energy in the form of body heat. If the tramp is of "any length you’ll be thankful for every bit of energy.

The best place to cross a river is well upstream from a rapid where the water smooths out before tumbling down its rapid.

It’s easier to walk downstream than upstream, and even though the water may be deeper,

it is not so swift up the pool.

Never trust rivers. They can rise without warning with a cloudburst in their headwaters.

A pole is always handy for crossing a river. If there are three or four in your party cut a long pole, and with each man holding it against himself, ford the river. Should you have to ford" on your own don’t step through the water. Shuffle along more or less, feeling your way over the boulder.

Make sure that you can easily slip out of your pack should you go over. Carry your pack with one arm free.