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Tips For New Hikers

September 20, 2022 | Tips & Trends
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Getting out into nature is a great way to get exercise, lower your stress levels, and get your daily dose of vitamin D! If you are considering going hiking this autumn to see the leaves near you or just to explore your area before it gets colder here are some things to keep in mind before hitting the trail.

  1. Calculate the time it will take you to hike the trail both to the end and back. The average person travels about 3 mph. With every 1000 feet of elevation,it takes a person about 30 minutes to hike add or subtract 10 minutes per 1000 feet. Make sure to give yourself time for breaks and sightseeing.

  2. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you should be back. Safety is a top priority if you are going hiking, especially alone.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings. Try to avoid wandering off the marked trails,especially if you are not familiar with the area. If you are at a major junction in the trail, take note of it for your return trip. Even turning around every so often to familiarize yourself with the view for the return trip down.

  4. Bring water and snacks for your hike! Staying hydrated and keeping a snack on hand is a great idea especially if you are heading out on a longer hike to make sure you stay hydrated and energized.
  5. Make sure to pick a trail that is equal to your experience level and be sure to watch where you step. If possible bringing a first aid kit is always a great idea.
  6. Stretch before you start your hike to avoid injuries. Taking a few minutes to stretch before starting your hike can make all the difference, if you are looking for tips asking your PT!

The entire Phoenix Physical Therapy Team is committed to providing our patients with quality physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy in a safe and healthy clinic environment. We continue to follow the guidance provided by the CDC, WHO and public health officials to update you as new information becomes available. Let’s work together to keep each other safe and healthy.

The safety of our patients, communities and team members remains our top priority. We know you have a choice in your care providers and appreciate your commitment to Phoenix and our qualified clinicians.

Here are the actions we have taken to keep our patients, communities and team healthy & safe:

  • Flexible scheduling allows for social distancing
  • Regular cleaning and sanitation of all clinic surfaces
  • Facemasks must be worn by all Phoenix staff and are recommended for all patients
  • Screening questionnaire and temperature checks prior to entering clinics
  • 6 feet of social distancing throughout the clinics

Keeping Our Clinics Safe

Here are some tips on how we can keep each other safe:

  • Handwashing is your best self-defense against the spread of germs. When soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, use at least a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Please stay home if you are not feeling well, especially if you have a fever, are coughing or sneezing, or are experiencing shortness of breath. If a patient shows up with symptoms, the clinic team will work with them to reschedule.
  • Be vigilant. If you have traveled to any of the countries where there are outbreaks of the virus, please follow guidance from the CDC website and our Travel Guidelines.

Here are actions we are taking to keep our clinics clean and safe:

  • Equipment will be wiped down after EVERY use with antibacterial wipes/sprays
  • All surfaces that patients or staff may touch including door handles, countertops, seating, pens at sign-in, bathroom and all other common areas will be disinfected regularly
  • Treatment tables will be 6 feet apart
  • Team members will wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing their nose, coughing or sneezin
  • Clinics will have hand sanitizer available at the front desk and in the treatment areas
  • Any Phoenix team members who are ill will be asked to stay home
  • We will maintain social distancing between patients in the clinic
  • Caregivers that are bringing a patient to the clinic should wait in their car or come back when the appointment has ended unless necessary (i.e. minor requiring a guardian or for assistance needs)
  • When possible, we will treat patients in private rooms to increase social distancing
  • Any patients that have underlying health issues (i.e. diabetes, respiratory problems, etc.) will be given the option to be seen during special clinic hours or can opt to be treated in a private room away from other clinicians and patients
  • All patients should be self-screening before entering the clinic. Our PCCs will perform a secondary screening during the check-in process and before patients enter the clinic including a screening questionnaire and temperature check.
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