Tips To Survive Outward Bound Programme

السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته

For an account of my experience during Outward Bound Malaysia programme on 01-10/08/2016, you may read here.

So here are several tips based on my experiences during the programme. It can be categorized into three categories: before programme, during and after.

BEFORE PROGRAMME BEGINS

• Get yourself ready by doing cardiovascular exercises, such as brisk walking, jogging and swimming. If you have left exercising since a long time, give a good start, at least 6 weeks before the camp to keep your body fit.
• Visit your G.P. (doctor) and do a medical checkup (compulsory before any OBM programme, <30 days before camp)
• Pack your items according to the list given.
• Outdoor shoes is crucial for trekking activities, especially when your normal sport shoes is about to wear. Futsal or indoor shoes is not recommended except for sporting activities. Or you may look for hiking shoes instead.
• Look out for water shoes. In Malaysia, it is available at SportsDirect.com and Decathlon as they offer affordable prices. For higher quality shoes, however, you may have a look at stores selling diving accessories. "Kasut getah" is also a good alternative.

Water shoes. Source: http://media.decathlon.in/110121/100-men-s-aquashoes-black.jpg

• Learn rulings of fiqh that you may be unaware before this, yet may be applicable in certain situations in the programme. For example:
• Wiping over the socks/boots (khuff) and over bandages and splints - article here
• Praying with shoes on - additional reading here
• Tayammum (due to absence of water or inability to use it)

DURING PROGRAMME

• For Muslims: Never skip your salaah wherever you are, be it at the base camp, in the midst of jungle or by the seaside!
• Get enough rest, especially during recovery period between expeditions.
• Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water. Water dispensers are available in the base camp.
• During gaps between expeditions, wash your soiled clothes.
• Safety first.
• Should you face a problem, consult your instructor, especially concerning your health.
• Stay hygienic.
• Apply insect repellent (or sunblock) if necessary.

AFTER PROGRAMME

• Consult your G.P, if you have not recovered from minor health issues such as fever, runny nose& skin itchiness.
• Keep yourself fit wherever you are.
• Soak and wash all used clothes and shoes with detergent.

Feel free to drop any comments if you have any extra points to be shared with the readers. Thank you!

Written on:
Sunday, 11 Dhul Qa'dah 1437 
corresponding to 14/08/2016

Kulim, Kedah