• Simple Steps For Safer Spelunking

    Caving is hazardous. Accidents happen — and can happen to experienced cavers as the extraordinary rescue effort to bring the injured German caver Johann Westhauser back from...

    By The Active Times Staff June 13th, 2014 Read More
  • What Is Gore-Tex?

    Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable fabric membrane that was originally created by W.L. Gore and Associates. This fabric has revolutionized the outdoor gear industry by providing...

    By Catarina Cowden June 12th, 2014 Read More
  • What Is A Pull Buoy?

    A pull buoy is a buoyant piece of gear that is used in swim training. The buoy is usually held between a swimmer's thighs to keep the...

    By Diana Gerstacker June 11th, 2014 Read More
  • How To Survive A Fast River Current

    Swimming, hiking, kayaking—so much of what we love to do in the summer means leaving the security of the indoors and stepping out of our comfort zones....

    By Diana Gerstacker June 10th, 2014 Read More
  • What Is Sculling?

    Generally defined as propelling through water, sculling is most often associated with rowing, or the movement of sea animals, but it is also a swim technique that...

    By Diana Gerstacker June 9th, 2014 Read More
  • How To Survive A Rip Current

    The ocean is a deep, dark abyss—it's only natural for people to be a bit afraid of the unknown and what they can't see beneath the surface....

    By Diana Gerstacker June 9th, 2014 Read More
  • The National Parks: Ranked!

    Which government system protects some of our most prized land, offers affordable recreation and is great for the economy? You guessed it—it's the National Park System. ...

    By The Active Times Staff June 5th, 2014 Read More
  • What Is Couch-Surfing?

    Couch-surfing is a slang term for staying overnight in someone else's home while traveling. Contrary to its name, travelers might sleep on a floor or an air...

    By Diana Gerstacker June 3rd, 2014 Read More
  • Workout Clothes You Can Wear Anywhere

    Lightweight and loose, this functional skort is made of 100% polyester spandex and is a fun, feminine alternative to a traditional pair of workout shorts. Whether you wear...

    By Katie Rosenbrock June 3rd, 2014 Read More
  • How To Build A Fire

    Camping is not complete without the continual crackling of the campfire. And without that noise, it is almost certain that your fire will not sustain. So whether...

    By Catarina Cowden June 2nd, 2014 Read More
  • What Is A Monastery Stay?

    A monastery stay is an overnight accommodation within a religious community. The stay usually includes a place to sleep, communal breakfast and access to religious services, events...

    By Diana Gerstacker June 2nd, 2014 Read More
  • How To Pitch A Tent

    While each tent provides extensive instructions in packaging, it's good to have a basic understanding to help you better prepare for initial setup. Also, don't hestitate to...

    By Catarina Cowden June 2nd, 2014 Read More
  • What Is An Au Pair?

    An au pair is a young adult who travels to a foreign country, lives with a family and, in return, cares for children and does light housework....

    By Diana Gerstacker June 2nd, 2014 Read More
  • What Is A Bivy Sack?

    A bivy sack, otherwise known by its full name, a bivouac sack, is a personal-sized waterproof shelter. Originally used by climbers on multi-day excursions, it is a...

    By Catarina Cowden May 30th, 2014 Read More