Information For New Members

Outdoor activities is an easy and enjoyable way to get exercise. However, if you do not exercise regularly or have a health-related condition it is important that you consult with a doctor before starting on a new exercise program such as outdoor activities.

• At its core, our outings are shared experiences, not guided trips.
• Everyone who joins is responsible for their own safety, decisions, and preparedness.
• Our volunteer hosts help bring the group together, set the tone, and keep things organized—but they’re not acting as professional guides.

We Have Activities Almost Every Week

We have activities almost every week. Go to our Events Listing to find out the activities being offered. We offer all sorts of adventures including walks, hiking, camping, biking, paddling, swimming, adventure vacations, social events and more. Often, members that attend our activities will meet others at their difficulty level and post their own adventures in our Calendar.

Know What You Are Capable Of

It's important for you to know what you are capable of before you select and attend an activity. This is easy if you have some experience going on our adventures. It may not be clear for people that are new to outdoor activities, particularly hiking in New Hampshire's White Mountains. For members who are not sure of their capabilities we suggest:

• Choosing an Easy to an Easy to Moderate Hike. The Difficulty Level of all our hikes in listed is the description. If you are unsure of your capabilities, send an email to the trip host, who can help you sort it out.
• Then you can gradually take on more of our challenging adventures. Move up to Moderate and then continue from there.
• If for some reason you joined an adventure beyond your capability, turn around. Let your host know. That's OK. Everyone has a learning curve. You then know you have to step up your outdoor training program.

Getting In Shape For Adventures - Outdoor Training Program

Outdoor Training Program

During your training program it's important to pay attention to how you feel during and after your training. It's not necessary to push yourself very hard to make progress. Training is supposed to be fun, including the part where you are gradually building up your strength and endurance. For cardio workouts, you should feel somewhat out of breath; but still be able to carry on a conversation. Most cardio machines monitor your heart rate so try to reach your target level. To calculate, start with 220 - Your Age. Then for moderate intensity, take 50-70% of that figure. Training itself should not make you very uncomfortable – rest often if needed. It's normal to feel tired after training. If you have difficulty sleeping that night or are very tired the next day then perhaps it was too difficult at that time. If so, then stay at that level or back off a bit until you feel comfortable with that difficulty level. Then gradually add some more difficulty.

New to Adventures?

You are not alone. Many members start with low-stress outings and build confidence over time. Look for beginner-friendly trips and ask questions, people are happy to help. All events are rated by difficulty so look for those rated "easy" or "easy to moderate".