Early starts and feeling sick

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highpilgrim
Posts: 3186
Joined: 3/14/2008
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Re: Early starts and feeling sick

Post by highpilgrim »

My ex called this morning sickness. Guess that’s been ruled out?
Call on God, but row away from the rocks.
Hunter S Thompson

Walk away from the droning and leave the hive behind.
Dick Derkase
ltlFish99
Posts: 619
Joined: 5/21/2019
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Re: Early starts and feeling sick

Post by ltlFish99 »

I was always rushed at work, being on call etc. for decades. I do not like to be rushed at all anymore for anything.
Therefore, I get up at least 1 hour, sometimes 1.5 hours before I want to leave the trailhead.
I got a cheap but very comfortable twin mattress for the back of my Durango and sleep with earplugs. I get to the trailhead early the evening prior so I can eat well and get to sleep early.
Most 14er trailheads are popular and crowded, even during the week. That is why I use earplugs. Vehicles coming and going and people getting ready etc. do not bother me. I set my alarm as loud as possible, and also set it to vibrate so I still wake up with the ear plugs.
I always have something to eat for breakfast, not a lot, but a nice meal.
What I found to be key was hydration. I pre hydrate the day before by over consuming liquids and as soon as I wake up I start drinking Gatorade in ernest.
I try to drink most of if not all of 1 quart prior to starting my hike. I always take my time in the morning as I am there to enjoy myself.
I take 2 quarts of Gatorade and easy to consume food with me on the hike. For me this means things like chocolate gu energy gels, chocolate/peanutbutter protein bars, animal crackers, a couple of spicy beef stick's, and a couple of snickers.i know, junk food, but the one thing I can always eat, no matter the altitude is sugar.

I start my hikes at a slow to moderate but deliberate pace. I am comfortable with the route having prepared well in advance for the adventure which helps eliminate some stress.
After about 20 minutes as I get into a nice rythm I pick up my pace. Not a lot, but enough that I will feel fine taking breaks when I want to. I pause mainly to consume liquids and eat a little. I may also check my position once in a while to confirm I am still on my desired route.
I always watch the weather to see if or when storms start to build and to track thier progression.
I do everything with intent, but not in a rushed fashion.
All of this keeps me relaxed, feeling comfortable, and most Importantly enjoying myself.
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