Appalachian Mountain Club Issues Challenge to Go Outside

Spend at Least Two Hours a Week Outdoors to Hit the Goal

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The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) issued a challenge for anyone willing to participate to spend at least two hours outside every week through the remainder of the winter season. AMC, the oldest outdoor group in the country, is issuing this challenge as time outside benefits mental and physical health.

With the announcement of this challenge, AMC’s Leadership Training Manger Colby Meehan  issued six survival tips for being outside during winter 2021:

1. Plan your Adventure

Avoid an emergency by mapping out your exact route, choosing an alternate route for emergencies and calculating how long your round-trip excursion will be. Make a trip plan and bring things like high-energy snacks and water for a more enjoyable day out.

2. Find the Forecast

Check the forecast before you go by listening/watching/reading your favorite weather predictions in advance. This will help you prepare for the appropriate climate while you are out and about. Observe weather changes as they emerge and change your plan for the day as needed to avoid severe weather.

3. Dress Appropriately

Carry the right gear based on the weather predictions to pack appropriately. Understanding how to layer for winter makes a world of difference. Avoiding fabrics like cotton and opting for ones like polyester or wool can turn a miserable, risky outing into a pleasant one. For good measure, take extra pairs of gloves, mittens and socks for especially cold temperatures.

4. Build a Safe Space

To guarantee a fun and safe small gathering under COVID conditions, you can create the perfect outdoor living space on a variety of different budgets. Fire pits are affordable, secure heat sources, and waterproof seating offers comfort while keeping you dry.

Prep meals in advance so you can focus on fun and enjoy your time outside. Maintain social distancing guidelines (at least 6 feet apart) from other campsites when making your own. Finally, remember the Leave No Trace principles when you leave, which ask you to carry out anything that does not belong in nature.

5. Outdoor Recreation and Wellness

Winter brings a multitude of activities and sports. It can be as advanced as snowboarding and skiing; but you can also have a blast without snow by jogging, picnicking or hiking. Studies show that spending at least 120 minutes outdoors every week boosts your well-being.

6. Explore the City Outdoors

City dwellers also have ways to revel outside during COVID. Whether you decide to walk around your neighborhood for 20 minutes a day, take up birdwatching in a local park for an afternoon or even study the surrounding architecture, time spent outside is good for you.

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The mission of the Appalachian Mountain Club is to foster the protection, enjoyment and understanding of the outdoors. They envision a world where our natural resources are healthy, loved and always protected, and where the outdoors occupies a place of central importance in every person’s life.

 

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