You are not alone: This must be the most common embarrassing walking problem.
Symptoms: You don't quite know where you are. Or you know where you are but you no longer know where the walking route is supposed to be. Depending on your gender, you may or may not be too embarrassed to admit the problem and seek help.
Causes
- Unfamiliar with the chosen walking route.
- Took a wrong turn.
- Thought you knew where you were going - but didn't.
- Poor walking directions given by map or instructions (when available).
- The rest of the walkers were slower or faster than you and you were following them until you lost sight of each other.
Treatment
- Stop for a good consultation with the map, directions, and your walking partner.
- Seek help from passersby.
- Stop in at a business to ask for directions.
- Find a phone book and see if it contains any maps.
- If in the forest, do not leave the developed trails.
- Consult your compass or GPS unit and know how to use them.
Prevention
- Maps: Use our online Google Map Pedometer before you leave home to print out a map of the area you will be walking in. You can click to create and measure your walking route before you leave home. Never go into unfamiliar territory without a good map.
- GPS Cell Phone: A cell phone that includes maps and GPS (global positioning) will let you know where you are whenever you are in an area with cell phone coverage. You will also be able to call for advice, help, or a cab!
- Handheld GPS: If you don't want to combine your GPS with a cell phone, a handheld unit is a powerful tool to know where you are. Be sure to spend the time to get to know its features.
- Compass: For natural trails, a compass is one of hiking's 10 essentials. Learn how to use a compass and never leave the pavement without one.
- Topographic Map: Also useful for natural trails, a current topo map shows elevation lines as well as trails, streams and other important features. Learn how to read it.
- Walking Events: At walking events, request a map and directions and keep them handy. Look them over before you head out and clarify anything that is confusing.
- Do They Know Where They are Going?: Never trust that the folks just ahead of you are on the same walking event. Don't follow them unless you are sure of their participation and their navigation skills.
Next page >> Itchy Legs
More Sensitive Subjects for Walkers
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Runner's Trots
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Stomach Upset
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Bladder Control
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Urinary Frequency
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No Toilets
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Menstrual Concerns
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Chafing
•
Bra Problems
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Sore Nipples
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Jock Itch
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Getting Lost
•
Itchy Legs
•
Anxiety and Panic
