Physical Prep

Physical preparation plays a crucial role in gearing up for Trek. Much like the pioneers who meticulously planned and readied themselves before embarking on their journey, all participants need to undergo physical preparation ahead of the event. Is it recommended that each participant condition themselves to walk or run a minimum of four (4) miles on level ground within 60 minutes or less, without undue stress. 

 Choosing the right footwear for your trek is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience without foot pain or blisters. Remember, it's essential to give your toes room to expand since your feet will swell about a full shoe size during the trek. Opt for comfortable trekking shoes to make the most of your journey. For a positive trekking experience, consider using running shoes. They are specially crafted to offer cushioning, motion control, and support, enhancing your overall comfort. Unlike hiking boots, running shoes are lighter and more flexible, providing the ideal combination of comfort and functionality. As you look forward to your trek, take the opportunity to embark on a few walks with your trekking shoes and a light backpack. Should you feel any hot spots forming, view it as an opportunity to pause and address the issue proactively. Head home, treat your feet with rubbing alcohol, and let them dry, allowing the development of calluses that will serve as protective armor during your trek. This positive approach ensures you're well-prepared and ready to enjoy every step of the journey.

A team of dedicated medical specialists, led by Sister Va Mounga, will be present throughout the Trek to promptly address any medical concerns. To enhance preparedness, each Trek committee member, including Ma’s & Pa’s, will undergo basic medical training before the event. This training will equip them with the skills to identify and address potential issues such as heat stroke, dehydration, blisters, snake bites, and more. 

As part of the registration process, every participant will provide personal medical details, including any special conditions or medication requirements. This information will be securely held by the Medical Specialists for quick reference. Additionally, Ma’s & Pa’s will receive medical information about each youth in their Trek family before the journey, ensuring awareness of any unique medical situations. 

Each individual and every family will carry a basic first-aid kit as part of their equipment. Items such as mole skin and duct tape are essential for addressing common issues like blisters. 

Participants are advised to consume only the water provided in designated water jugs or at the base camp. Drinking from rainwater, streams, lakes, ponds, puddles, or creeks is strongly discouraged due to the risk of serious sickness. Giardia, the most common parasite in the area, can lead to flu-like symptoms and cramps. Regular water stops along the trail will be organized to refill carts and individual water containers. 

It is critically that each trekker stay hydrated whilst at trek. Dehydration is a common concern along the trail, and participants are encouraged to stay vigilant about their water intake to mitigate this frequently encountered medical issue. Each family will carry 2 x five-gallon drinking coolers on the hand cart which youth and leaders will drink from whilst on the trail. 

Dehydration and heat exhaustion often go hand in hand, so make sure water goes in but also keep the outside cooled down with wet bandannas around the neck or using a spray bottle.