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Outdoor Activists : Useful Contacts for Training, and Emergency Services
A comprehensive set of contacts and safety messages for the outdoor activists Adventure Activities Industry Advisory Committee The Adventure Activities Industry Advisory Committee (AAIAC), is the sector’s lead body for safety in adventure activities. It is representative of a wide range of stakeholders from the UK adventure activities sector and is supported by the Institute for Outdoor Learning. info@adventureactivityassociates.co.uk If you have an Accident in the Hills Dial 999 or 112 . Ask for Police then Mountain Rescue….To use the emergency SMS Service : text 999 and send Police the details and location of the incident Mountain Training’s Association The MTA is a membership organization for those passionate about climbing,…
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Footwear is the ultimate Foundation of our Personal Kit.
Footwear is the essential gear that grounds me, supporting every step I take across diverse and challenging terrains. It’s not just an accessory; it’s a critical investment in my overall physical and mental well-being. Without the right footwear, even the most meticulously planned adventure can be derailed, as comfort, stability, and resilience are crucial for pushing forward. Since the age of nine, when I was told I would be a cripple, footwear has been of vital importance to me. From the lightweight running shoes I wore during two London Marathons in the mid-eighties to the rugged Baffin boots that provided cold comfort during my 650 km trek to the North…
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Ultimate Guide to the Three-Layered Clothing System
As someone who loves exploring the outdoors, especially in cold weather, I’ve found that the three-layer clothing system is a tried-and-true strategy for effective layering. This method ensures that I stay warm, dry, and comfortable, allowing me to enjoy my activities without feeling the biting chill. By wearing a base layer to wick away moisture, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer to protect against wind and rain, I can adapt to changing weather conditions with ease. This system not only keeps me cozy but also enhances my overall outdoor experience by eliminating the discomfort that harsh weather often brings. Baselayer: Keeping You Dry and Comfortable The…
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Essential Survival Gear for Treks and More
Here’s my take on essential survival gear for treks and other adventures—though keep in mind, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all list. Every journey is different, and your gear should always be tailored to your specific needs. No matter how much you prepare, unexpected challenges like unplanned overnights, sudden bad weather, or injuries can arise. From my own experiences, I’ve put together a list of key items that can be lifesavers in emergency situations, helping you stay ready for the unexpected. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness or setting off on another type of adventure, this guide offers a solid foundation. Just remember to stay adaptable and adjust your gear to fit…
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Orienteering : Best Introduction to Survival Skills for Adventurers
Orienteering is a fantastic way to introduce aspiring adventurers to the beauty of the great outdoors while also helping them develop essential survival skills. It perfectly combines the thrill of wild running with a meaningful purpose. It is an outdoor adventure sport that combines navigation and racing, where participants use a map and compass to find a series of checkpoints in diverse terrains, such as forests, mountains, or urban areas. The goal is to complete the course in the shortest possible time while navigating through unfamiliar landscapes. It requires both physical fitness and sharp navigational skills, as competitors must decide the most efficient routes between checkpoints. Orienteering is enjoyed as…
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‘Having both Feet on the Ground’ is to be a Sensible and Practical Person
“Having both feet on the ground” or groundedness is being firmly rooted in the present, with a clear sense of your values and purpose, allowing you to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience. It refers to a state of being firmly connected to yourself and the present moment, both mentally and emotionally. It’s a sense of stability and balance that comes from having a strong internal foundation, enabling you to remain calm and composed even when facing challenges on adventures and in ‘life’. It emphasizes being fully present in your experiences rather than rushing through them or being driven solely by external pressures. It allows you to navigate life’s ups…
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Unlock the Healing Power of Recovery: Transform Your Life Today
Courage to Heal : My Transitioning from addiction and receiving a cancer diagnosis to becoming an adventurer Transitioning from addiction and receiving a cancer diagnosis to becoming an adventurer has been an extraordinary and deeply transformative journey for me. It’s a path filled with overcoming both physical and mental challenges while embracing a new way of living, focused on exploration, freedom, and personal growth. Here’s how I navigated such a profound shift: This transformation has been nothing short of heroic. By staying committed to my health, well-being, and adventurous spirit, I’ve realized that life can be truly lived, and it’s filled with possibilities I once couldn’t have imagined. Sometimes, the…
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Critical items you ‘Need’ to Survive an Adventure, Electronics / Navigation, Electronics / Security, My Blog
Lost or Need Guidance – GPS-based Digital For Navigation apps
GPS: Focuses on location and navigation only. Need Guidance? Use GPS-based digital mapping and navigation hiking apps, several features and optimizations can be introduced to enhance user experience, safety, and functionality. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these apps can be enhanced: 1. Offline Navigation & Enhanced Maps 2. Route Planning & Recommendations 3. Safety & Emergency Features 4. Advanced GPS Tracking & Live Sharing 5. Augmented Reality (AR) & AI 6. Weather & Environmental Updates 7. Community & Gamification 8. Battery & Resource Efficiency 9. Local Trail Information & Sustainability 10. Accessibility & Inclusivity 11. Integration with Other Apps & Devices Conclusion: Improving GPS-based hiking apps means integrating cutting-edge…
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Proving Life in Recovery is Powerful and Inspiring
“Recovery: The Courage to Heal” A powerful journey of resilience and transformation, where every step forward is a testament to strength, determination, and the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow. On September 28th, 2024, at the age of 76 and with 43 years of being clean and sober, I took the leap of a lifetime – skydiving from 15,000 feet. This thrilling experience was not only a personal triumph, but also a way to support a cancer charity, demonstrating that life in recovery is not just possible, but truly incredible. Recovery has given me the strength and courage to take on challenges I never thought possible, and this jump symbolizes…
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Toxic Dynamics: How to Recognize and Address Harmful Relationships
Before you embark on any adventure, building or joining the right team is the foundation for success. Reflecting on my past, I’ve come to realize that, just as there are plants and bugs that harm their environment, there are people who exhibit toxic behaviours. I’ve learned that I can’t always judge or point the finger; from 17yrs to 33yrs I was extremely Toxic, as were those I surrounded myself with. Instead, I must accept these challenges and confront them head-on with a clear mind and a steady heart. Whenever I embark on an adventure—whether it’s an extreme challenge or a more everyday experience—it’s essential that I can trust and rely…
