Planning for hiking Mt Fuji is not far different from planning for climate change!

In this article, you will learn how to protect yourself from the elements during day-long hikes, such as climbing Mt Fuji as I did over the past weekend. From hiking Mt Fuji I realized how important it is to be well prepared and expect the unexpected to save yourself from severe pain and discomfort.

This experience taught me that planning for hiking Mt Fuji is in a way much resembling planning for climate change.

Shoe: First things first: it is a very important and the foremost requirement for hiking to wear dedicated hiking shoes. I can’t thank enough myself for buying a hiking shoe. Having a firm grip on the ground will save you from slips, falls, and uncomfortable weather. The importance of wearing good quality socks that can cushion your feet is something I learned the hard way. Look for a sock that is tight enough for your feet, provides a good cushion, wicks out the sweat, and protects you from cool weather.

Hiking sticks: Another necessity, I picked a stick on my way not entirely out of planning but ‘just in case and I couldn’t thank myself for that. Having two polls will do you good. However, carrying at least a stick is key, it helps you in descent. I returned home without slipping once thanks to my hiking shoe and poll. This is an absolute necessary combination for hiking Mt Fuji!

Clothing: The nastiest lesson I learned from this hiking is not wearing all-weather clothing despite the suggestion of my friend Takuro Kobashi . Misreading the weather, I wore normal clothing that exposed me to all weather elements, causing me to shiver and tremble for the remainder of the hike and night. It was a miracle that I reached the apex safely. Weather forecasts often don't capture the weather on high mountains as they are unpredictable. Wear all-weather clothing regardless of what the weather forecast may say.?I can't stress this enough.

Backpack: Among the things discussed above, the bag may not be much of a factor in your hiking, but how you manage your weight is essential. However, next time I would certainly carry a bag that has good weight distribution through a good suspension system that doesn’t strain shoulders. The idea of having a waterproof backpack cover sounds good but the most important point is to check if they have sufficient fasteners to withstand wind. Even more important is select a backpack that is waterproof. You don't want to be disappointed to see all your packed clothes wet.

Food: Carry lightweight high energy food (e.g. nuts), sufficient mineral water, some quick energy drinks, and energy powders. You don’t necessarily need to carry bulky items like fruits and meals.

Oxygen: Carry a couple of oxygen canisters with you, I completed my last leg of hiking only with the help of oxygen as I thought my leg muscles are giving up on me due to lack of oxygen and energy. My movement became sluggish and taking any additional step was only possible with a gulp of oxygen.

Etcetera: There are some small things that contribute to hiking pleasure. Having a good hood is one of them. For example, the hood shouldn't flap around with wind irritating your ears. Make sure that the hood stays tight and close to your head. Mud and stones may enter your shoe and irritate you so you may want to cover the shoe with a gaiter. If you are a smartphone photographer then you may want to make sure your phone is usable during the hike especially for taking photos, so touchscreen-compatible gloves are necessary. Alternatively, you may want to check if your phone can respond to your voice commands to take photos or make calls and enable all necessary settings before the hike. Check the water resistance of your phone too. Carrying a 1000 lumens headlight that can run for 6-8 hours at its peak brightness is a must for misty mountains.

I realized that a 700 lumens peak light is not sufficient in the misty mountains.

Preparation before and after hiking: Have a good night's sleep, flex your body at least a week before if you are not a regular exerciser and do good research on how to be resilient on a hiking trail. There is a lot of information on the web that you can learn from and be prepared for.?

One important discomfort you could face during hiking is developing muscle cramps. If you are one of those who develop cramps, you better carry painkillers and muscle sprays.

Hydrate well yourself before, during, and after hiking.?

Hydration will help your body to keep up with the rigour of hiking, replenish lost water and minerals, and contributes to the function of your muscles.

Continue to stretch your body even after hiking to keep your body flexible, hydrate and have good sleep to recover to full glory.