Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup Review

Overweight Novice Hikers and Non Judgmental Las Vegas Hiking Club

 

Have you put on some extra pounds the last few years and feel uncomfortable joining a fitness club or conventional hiking club. Do you feel that the pressure joining a mainstream hiking club to keep pace will be overwhelming and perhaps embarrassing. Look no further. We have the solution to help you shed some of those unwanted pounds, live a healthier lifestyle and enjoy a hike in the great terrain that surrounds Las Vegas. Welcome to the Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup.

Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup

The Group was founded in June of 2013 and already boasts 326 members. Hey all share the common desire to lose weight, meet socially and enjoy a casual hike with parameters afforded their fitness level. In one year they have organized 86 events so it is a very active event schedule as well as offers many different hiking venues. From the Serene beauty of Red Rock Canyon to the elevated terrain of winter ski resort area Mt. Charleston, there is a hike for everyone.

Fitness level of hikes

The founder of the Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup, Richard Cumelis, retired 25 year US Air Force veteran, was 150 pounds overweight and fast approaching 50 years of age when he decided to start the club so that hikers could be comfortable with people at the same level as themselves. Most hikes are easy to moderate as far as conditioning and difficulty. The hike summary is posted in advance with a detailed description of the length, altitude, terrain conditions and forecasted weather. No one is required to hike any event. You choose the ones that you will be comfortable doing. No peer pressure here.

Examples of a hike

Fletcher Canyon was hiked a few days ago by 10 members of the Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup. It was a 1.8 mile hike each way at 7,000 to 8,000 foot elevation on Mt. Charleston, which is a one hours drive from the heart of Las Vegas. The trail starts by the Ranger's station and ends by a 10' wide slot canyon. It is a posted trail that meanders over slow rolling hills uncovers a series of small seasonal waterfalls. The temperature at hike time was a brisk 55 to 65 degrees which is ideal weather at such an altitude.

Transportation to the hike

Most hike locations are out of the city of Las Vegas, which means car or motorcycle are required to get to the starting point. Their is a car pool organized for each event to limit the amount of gas and expense getting there. The car pool information will be listed on the event. Please follow the directions to coordinate a car pool there. Directions are posted on the vent description with start time.

Risk and supplies needed

There are inherent risks to any athletic endeavor whether it be over exertion, falling, altitude sickness, or wildlife encounters. Some equipment to bring: take plenty of water, at least 2 liters per person, a compass, portable air horn, animal repellant, knife, power bars, cell phone, first aid kit, lighter, disposable flashlight, etc. Having equipment and not using is much better than not having and needing. Never plan to have an accident but always have plans in the event of an accident is sound advice.

Attire

Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and have a poncho in case of rain. Hiking boots and an extra pair of socks are recommended. Also, bring a camera, the scenery and picture opportunities are amazing. At the Fletcher Canyon hike, over 70 pictures were taken and posted on the Las Vegas Overweight Hikers for Health Meetup website. Sign up and see which one of your facebook friends are signed up instantly. Look at some of the group reviews and see how friendly this group is to newbies.

A great way to meet new people who have the same weight loss goals as yourself. A great way to explore the surrounding terrain of Las Vegas. A clean, no cost way to get healthy. Also a great way to admire nature and the world around us and maybe add a few extra years to the back end of our lives.