Mountain tourism, a type of travel excursion that doesn't necessarily involve reaching the summit of a peak, emerged with the development of the mountaineering movement in the early 1970s.

Enthusiasts carry necessary climbing food and equipment into mountainous areas, forming groups to admire the unique peaks and ridges, engage in activities such as photography, and collect specimens.

Before novice climbers embark on their journey, there are several preparations to consider. For middle-aged and elderly individuals, undergoing a physical examination to understand their physical condition is essential. Climbing requires a certain level of physical strength and endurance, and individuals with hypertension are advised against climbing.

1. Sun Hat:

Any ordinary brimmed hat or visor will suffice, aiming to protect against sun exposure.

UV radiation at mountain summits can be intense, and failure to take precautions can result in sunburn. It's generally unnecessary to purchase a specific hat for this purpose, but if one doesn't have suitable outdoor headwear, it's advisable to invest in one, considering the potential need for outdoor activities beyond climbing.

2. Sunglasses:

Many people underestimate the importance of sunglasses, assuming that there's no sun exposure in the mountains.

However, mountain climbing destinations often involve high altitudes without cloud cover, with climbers reaching the summit around midday or afternoon when UV radiation is particularly strong. Neglecting eye protection can lead to sunburn of the eyes and skin. Therefore, sunglasses are necessary, and it's preferable to invest in quality ones.

3. Climbing Pack:

Climbing packs should prioritize lightweight, usability, adjustability, and comfort. A good climbing pack is highly breathable and comfortable, preventing the feeling of stuffiness and shoulder strap discomfort.

4. Knee Protectors:

Wearing knee protectors aims to prevent joint injury and patellar wear. In addition to climbing, it's essential to protect the knees during regular physical activities such as running, basketball, or badminton. Hence, unless the climbing distance is short, it's advisable to invest in knee protectors.

5. Trekking Poles:

An article in the 2013 edition of "Science" reported that trekking poles can effectively reduce pressure on leg and knee muscles by at least 22%, reducing energy consumption, improving walking stability, frequency, and range of motion, and serving as a self-defense tool when encountering wildlife.

Don't dismiss trekking poles as inconvenient; modern trekking poles are foldable, lightweight, and sturdy, making them essential for climbing.

6. Climbing Plan:

A climbing plan is crucial knowledge to understand before climbing and is sometimes more important than equipment.

In fact, inadequate planning can lead climbers into perilous situations, resulting in more harm than good.

It's essential to determine which route to take, where to rest, and the latest acceptable arrival time. Consider the consequences of failing to find a suitable resting place before nightfall, inevitably leading to nighttime climbing, which is dangerous and prone to accidents.

The climbing process can be arduous, but the wonderful scenery along the way is enough to soothe the soul.