Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill

1. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
By: Matt Kafker

2. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
Matthew “Matt” Kafker is a university student who excels in various subjects such as mathematics,
computer science, physics, and literature. Outside of his coursework, Matt Kafker maintains an active
lifestyle by hiking.

3. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
Downhill hiking is a great workout, but it strains the joints and increases the risk of injury when done
improperly. To reduce this risk, adopt and maintain a low center of gravity at the beginning of your
descent. Having a low center of gravity keeps you stable and lets you move fluidly down the hill.

4. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
As you start to descend, pay close attention to how quickly you are moving. Do not rush when moving
downhill and instead make sure you have plenty of time to complete your descent carefully and slowly.
In addition, take small steps as you go to keep yourself stable and always look ahead of where you
are going so you have plenty of time to avoid hazards on your planned path.

5. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
If you find the descent is still steep that you are losing control, don’t hesitate to use different
techniques to minimize stress and regain control of your movements. Switchbacks, for instance,
involve zig-zagging across the slope and allow for a more controlled descent. Some trails have
switchbacks built in, but you can also switchback on your own.

6. Useful Tips When Hiking Downhill
Edging down sideways is another option for slowing down your descent and involves pointing your
feet across the trail rather than up and down it.