(photo above taken by WHOA Travel. Location: Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. With gratitude to the Chagga and Maasai peoples, whose ancestral lands include Mt. Kilimanjaro—honoring their deep connection, history, and stewardship of this sacred mountain)
Expectations when adventuring with Ample Movement.All hikes are fat positive, queer positive events. All people in all bodies are welcome. No diet culture discussion. This means no comments about earning food or calories or what foods are "healthy". Please no derogatory comments about anyone's body, even and especially your own. Absolutely no homophobia, transphobia, racism, sexism etc. will be tolerated.
We will start the hike/walk by introducing ourselves with our names and pronouns (if you feel comfortable to do so) and maybe an icebreaker question (optional). Please always ask other participants if it is okay to hug or touch them before doing so. Everyone has their own things that they are comfortable with. We will walk at the pace of the slowest hiker. As a hike leader, I usually hike in the back (unless it's a very wide trail, there are only a few people etc.) We will take lots of breaks. If you need more breaks, please ask for them. This is your hike! This is also about the journey, taking pictures (I take a lotta pictures) and enjoying each others' company. No hiker will ever be left behind. I will share detailed information about trail surface and trail width, elevation gain, distance and time we expect to be out for each hike as soon as it is known (sometime the trail is decided last minute). If you don't see what you need, please email [email protected] and I will do my best to get you the information that you need. Gear and clothing You don't have to have any fancy hiking equipment. Comfortable walking/hiking shoes or boots, some water (with electrolytes if it is hot out) and a few snacks are important. Hiking poles are always welcome. If you don't have poles, but would like to use some, please ask as I do have a few extra pairs. Warm enough clothing for the weather is also important. Layering is best in the cold. It is also a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho regardless of weather. It is also best to wear athletic wicking fabrics instead of cotton. For each hike I will check the weather but it's a good idea to do that yourself too! Here is a list of brands that do sell plus size outdoor clothing, in case you're in the market for something. Want to bring your dog? *Occasionally we will be hiking at nature preserves or trails that don't allow dogs. I will always note if dogs are not allowed.* Leashed dogs are welcome on the hikes but please respect that not all people or dogs like to be greeted by strange dogs. If your dog isn't used to being around a lot of people or other dogs, maybe it is best if you leave them home so they are more comfortable. Please bring your own poop bags to pick up after your dog on the trail. Also bring enough water and a receptacle to give your dog water during the hike. Please do not allow your dog to go up to other dogs on the hike without getting the okay from the other dog's guardian. Please do not use a retractable (flexi) leash on our group hikes. With a lot of people on a trail, people can easily get tangled or hurt. A six foot leash is a better option when hiking in a group. I do not welcome the use of e-collars, or leash corrections while hiking with Ample Movement. If you can't walk with your dog without using these methods, please do not bring your dog. You may want to find a positive reinforcement, force free dog trainer to help you work with your dog. If you do not know where to find one, please ask. As a retired dog trainer myself, I have resources that may help you. |