|
Have you been on a long hike lately? No? Then do give it a try, because, to participate in one of the Elderhostel programs, you need to have some minimum level of fitness. If you are able to meet the challenge, then you might join a group of "55+ adult teenagers" for day long hiking trips organized by Elderhostel.
An Elderhostel program aims at exercising your mind as well as your body, through a dynamic combination of knowledge and activity. These programs are as varied as the participants, and you must be well informed about the physical demands of a particular activity before choosing a particular program.
In order to facilitate Elderhostel inmates in making appropriate program choices, the Elderhostel programs are rated on the basis activity levels demanded by each. You can select the program that you wish to take depending on whether it appeals to you and whether you are physically fit to take it up. The rating of a program is based on the estimated number of hours and the pace or intensity of the physical activity involved. Use your best judgment in choosing a program that will not be stressful for you and suits your individual circumstances.
Levels of Elderhostel Programs
Each Elderhostel program is allotted an activity level, extending from the least challenging, Level 1, to the most challenging, Level 6.
Level 1
Requires you to handle your own luggage, carry a buffet tray and climb a few stairs.
Level 2
Besides fulfilling Level 1 criteria, this level requires you to remain standing for up to one hour and get on and off a motor coach without difficulty.
Level 3
In addition to the criteria stated for Levels 1 and 2, Level 3 necessitates that you must be able to climb a few flights of stairs and walk up to 2 miles on an uneven terrain.
Level 4
Besides the criteria stated above for Levels 1 to 3, this level requires you to be in good health, be "mobile" and physically fit for participating in 3 to 5 hours of physical activity every day. You must also be able to walk 3 to 5 miles at a 2.5 miles per hour pace over uneven surface.
Level 5
Besides fulfilling Levels 1 to 4 criteria, Level 5 requires you to be in excellent health, very mobile and accustomed to an active lifestyle. Program activities may require up to 6 hours of arduous, moderate to fast-paced activities every day, which are equivalent to hiking 6 miles at a 3miles per hour pace over various terrains.
Level 6
Besides the requirements for all levels below this, Level 6, which is the highest level, demands that you have a high level of physical fitness coupled with basic levels of proficiency in the program activities. You should be able to meet "full" days of fast-paced, exhausting physical challenges.
|
