CoolSculpting has long reigned as one of the best options for non-surgical fat reduction and body contouring, and Bodify, with two Phoenix-area locations, has established itself as CoolSculpting experts,since that’s ALL we do. We now proudly offer CoolSculpting Elite, which delivers more dramatic body-contouring results in a shorter amount of time, and we are excited to be able to continue to support the active lifestyles of men and women from all over Phoenix with our new technology. One of the best parts about living in Phoenix or the surrounding areas is easy-access to so many beautiful hiking trails. It’s definitely hiking season in the Valley of the Sun, and will be for the next few months, so we thought we’d cover some tips for hiking safely in the Phoenix area.
Safe Hiking Tips When You’re In Phoenix
You likely know some of the standard safe hiking tips, like wearing the right shoes. But Arizona offers some unique challenges, so here are some of the big things you need to know to ensure a day of safe hiking in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Plan Ahead. The Phoenix area has a lot of hiking trails to choose from, all of varying intensity and challenges. Check local trail guides to make sure the distance and elevation is a challenges you can tackle, and if you’re bringing along your dog, be sure to check that the trail is dog-friendly. We love all the information Arizona Hikers Guide offers, so be sure to check that out. If you’re looking for a quick hike, here are some suggestions for trails our staff loves:
-
-
- Pinnacle Peak Trail: Located in Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak is known for its 3.5 mile trail that has beautiful views of the valley and McDowell Mountains. Early morning and night are the best times to go, since daytime can lead to higher foot traffic.
- Camelback Echo Canyon Trail: This out-and-back trail is only 2.4 miles, BUT the 1,423 ft elevation gain makes this trail super-challenging and is not for the faint of heart. The half-mile of rock scrambling keeps the hike interesting and is a great full-body workout!
-
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. Dehydration can happen even when the weather is cool, so it’s always a good idea to bring more water than you’ll think you need. Drinking enough water ensures you’ll have enough energy to last your hike, combats muscle cramps, and reduces the risk of heatstroke. Avoid coffee, tea, and soda before your hike, all of which can add to dehydration, and the general recommendation for a moderate level hike is to consume 8-10 ounces of water per mile (about 16-20 ounces per hour). Keep in mind that hydration needs vary from person to person, and can vary depending on how strenuous your hike is or how hot it is outside.
- Be a Lightweight. When hiking, the less you have to carry, the better – so travel as lightly as possible. The heaviest items in your pack should be water and food. Other items to pack for even the shortest hikes include sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, a hat, and a flashlight. One of the best parts of hiking is disconnecting from the world, but always bring your cell phone in case you get lost or injured. If you’re bringing your dog along, make sure you have enough water for them and a collapsible dish, as well as some dog treats to keep their energy up and waste bags to clean up their mess.
- Avoid Huffing and Puffing. If you are huffing and puffing, that means your legs, your digestive system, and the rest of your body do not have enough oxygen to function efficiently, which means your energy reserves get used up very quickly. It’s okay to challenge yourself to get your heart rate up a bit, but keep in mind – if you can talk while you are walking, you are going at the perfect speed.
- Take Breaks. Take breaks if you need to – a break of 5-7 minutes every 30-60 minutes can remove up to 30% of the metabolic waste products that have built up in your legs while hiking. Sit down, prop your legs above the level of your heart, drink lots of fluids and eat some food, and enjoy the view. In the long run, efficient breaks will not slow you down.
- Be Salty. In Phoenix, salt is not just for margaritas. When hiking in the desert, your body needs electrolytes. Electrolytes—which include sodium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, phosphate, and magnesium—are critical to body function and will keep your nerves, muscles, heart, and brain in good shape during your hike. Pack salty snacks and some sports drinks (in addition to your water) to help you replace those lost electrolytes.
- Stay Alert. The desert has two things hikers hope they don’t have to deal with: spikes and snakes. Experienced hikers keep pliers and a fine-toothed comb in their packs to help remove spikes and cactus needles. And for snakes, just stay aware. Rattlesnakes are common in the desert, so watch where you’re stepping, stay on trails, and when you do encounter a rattler, give it space. It’s okay to listen to some music while you hike, but leave one earbud out so you can hear the warning of a rattlesnake.
Bodify Supports Your Active Lifestyle
If you love hiking and moving your body, you’re also likely a great candidate for CoolSculpting Elite. CoolSculpting Elite is perfect for people who are close to their ideal weight for their height and just need a little help targeting bothersome trouble spots. Plus, since there’s no down time, you can get a treatment and then head right to the hiking trail. We invite you to learn more about how Bodify supports your active lifestyle by scheduling your initial consultation; we can’t wait to hear from you!
