members of the Bloem Hiking Club during a recent adventure
Social Hiking – It’s a lifestyle
Bloem Social Hiking Club has turned hiking in Bloemfontein to be more than just walking in the bush or mountains but into lifestyle. Established in 2020 by Teboho Mahlaba, Bloem Social Hiking Club has managed to attract people from all walks of life in and around Bloemfontein to enjoy this activity which was in the past considered to be for the marginalized few.
Speaking to The Pixley Independent, founder Teboho Mahlaba elaborates that the Club was established with sole purpose of networking, getting fit and exploring adventure at the same. “Since the club was established, we have managed to explore various hiking trails in and around Bloemfontein and also encouraging people to travel. Hiking is not only a sporting activity but plays an important role in the physical and emotional health of a hiker,” said Mahlaba.
According to Mahlaba his adventure started during the Covid-19 pandemic, where a lot of people were going through a lot of emotional breakdowns. And it was also one of the activities that were allowed during that time, hence the participation of people in this lifestyle activity increased.
“I started hiking after the Covid-19 lockdown times. Life was a bit rough for me not seeing a way out of my situation as a businessperson. After taking part in this activity, my mental health improved. I learned while climbing the mountains that one should take life one step at a time, as when you climb you put one foot after the other,” said Batshegi Dibate.
Beauty Nelani adds “I was very scared of heights. I wanted something to do in order to overcome my fears. Hiking was never in my mind, but in early 2021 I decided to try it out. And I never looked back ever since joining; I enjoy every hiking adventure that we partake in. The fear of the heights is a thing of the past. Hiking has also encouraged me to take care of my body and look closely to the food I eat.”
Bloem Social Hiking Club partakes in hikes every second week in Bloemfontein and everyone is welcome to join. There are no joining fees applicable. For more information contact Teboho Mahlaba on 0818103485
