Off-roading tips to maximize your adventure

Different terrains demand different approaches and awareness from drivers who wish to avoid hazards and maintain steady vehicle control while enjoying off-road adventures.

by Casey Cartwright
Contributing Writer

Pickup trucks offer a unique combination of strength, versatility, and durability that make them ideal for off-road travel across a wide range of environments. From rocky trails to open desert paths, these vehicles provide the capability needed to reach remote destinations that standard vehicles cannot access. However, maximizing the potential of a pickup truck requires more than basic driving knowledge, as proper preparation and thoughtful decision-making play a significant role in overall success.

Every off-road adventure presents new challenges that test the driver and the vehicle in different ways. Terrain conditions can shift quickly, weather can introduce unexpected obstacles, and mechanical strain can increase under demanding circumstances. With these pickup truck off-roading tips to maximize your adventure, you can transform ordinary trips into rewarding experiences that highlight exploration and capability.

Understand Your Terrain

Different terrain types demand different approaches and awareness from drivers who wish to avoid hazards and maintain steady vehicle control. Sand, mud, rocks, and snow each affect traction and stability in distinct ways that require thoughtful response from attentive drivers. Study terrain characteristics before each trip and adjust driving technique to match surface conditions encountered.

Proper preparation begins with research and observation that informs each decision made before departure into unfamiliar environments. Maps, satellite imagery, and local reports provide valuable insight into obstacles, elevation changes, and potential weather impacts along intended routes. Drivers who respect terrain limits reduce risk and extend vehicle life across repeated off-road adventures.

Choose Appropriate Tires

Tires serve as the foundation of traction and stability for any pickup truck that ventures beyond paved surfaces into unpredictable environments. All-terrain or mud-terrain options offer different benefits that suit specific conditions encountered across varied landscapes and weather patterns. Select tires that match your intended terrain and maintain proper pressure to balance grip, comfort, and durability during each journey.

Regular inspection ensures tire integrity and reduces the chance of failure during remote travel, where assistance may remain far away. Check tread depth and inflation before departure to confirm readiness for demanding off-road use under heavy loads. Reliable tires support safe navigation and improve confidence across challenging routes that test vehicle capability.

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Adjust tire pressure to match terrain demands to improve traction and reduce stress on vehicle components during off-road travel. Lower pressure increases surface contact across soft ground such as sand or snow, which helps maintain forward momentum without wheel spin. Higher pressure suits rocky terrain where sharp edges may damage tires if sidewalls flex excessively under heavy loads.

Carry a reliable air compressor and pressure gauge to adjust quickly as conditions change throughout your route. Consistent monitoring prevents uneven wear and ensures optimal performance across varied terrain encountered during extended excursions. Proper pressure management supports safety and efficiency during demanding adventures.

Protect the Undercarriage

The undercarriage of a pickup truck faces constant exposure to rocks, debris, and uneven terrain that can cause damage without proper protection. Skid plates and guards shield vital components such as the engine, transmission, and fuel system from impacts during off-road travel. Investment in durable protection reduces repair costs and extends vehicle longevity across repeated adventures.

Inspect protective components regularly to ensure secure attachment and identify wear that may compromise effectiveness during demanding use. Replace or repair damaged sections promptly to maintain consistent protection across the varied terrain encountered on each trip. A well-protected undercarriage supports reliable performance in harsh environments.

Secure Cargo and Equipment

Proper cargo control improves safety, balance, and efficiency across rough terrain. These clear strategies will keep equipment secure and easy to access when needed:

Use strong tie downs to always hold all gear in place. Check straps for wear before each trip. Replace weak parts to prevent failure on rough terrain.
Keep heavy items low and near the center of the truck bed. This helps maintain balance on uneven ground. Stable weight reduces strain on suspension and tires.
Separate tools, food, and emergency items into dedicated containers. Clear organization allows quick access in urgent situations. It also prevents damage from shifting loads.
Cover cargo with weather-resistant materials to protect against dust, rain, and debris. Harsh conditions can damage exposed equipment. Proper cover extends gear life and reliability.
Recheck cargo security at regular stops along your route. Terrain can loosen straps and shift weight over time. Consistent checks help avoid accidents and loss of gear.

Plan Fuel and Supplies

Remote travel requires careful planning of fuel, water, and food supplies to ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey. Estimate consumption based on distance and expected delays that may occur due to unforeseen challenges along the route. Carry extra reserves to provide a margin of safety in case conditions change unexpectedly.

Reliable storage solutions keep supplies organized and protected from environmental exposure during off-road travel across harsh conditions. Regular checks ensure the availability and quality of essential resources before and during each trip into remote areas. Prepared drivers avoid unnecessary risk and maintain confidence throughout their adventure.

Optimize Storage Solutions

Efficient storage solutions maximize available space within a pickup truck and ensure organization of gear during off-road travel across remote environments. Bed racks, toolboxes, and compartments provide structured placement that prevents clutter and supports easy access to essential equipment. Thoughtful organization improves both safety and convenience throughout each journey.

Learning why roof racks are essential for overlanding and camping will help you create a well-balanced setup that supports efficient storage and transport of gear. Proper installation and weight distribution ensure stability and reduce strain on the vehicle during challenging conditions. Optimized storage enhances readiness for extended adventures across diverse terrain.

Install Navigation and Communication Tools

Accurate navigation tools assist drivers in maintaining direction and avoiding hazards when traveling through unfamiliar terrain without clear markers. GPS devices, offline maps, and compasses provide reliable guidance even when cellular service remains unavailable in remote regions. These tools support informed decisions and reduce the likelihood of becoming lost during extended trips.

Communication devices enhance safety by enabling contact with others in case of emergency or unexpected delay during travel. Radios or satellite systems provide a reliable connection across areas where traditional networks fail to reach. Effective communication ensures timely assistance and peace of mind for all participants.

Upgrade Suspension System

A robust suspension system is one of the best off-roading tips to maximize your adventure because it improves ride quality, stability, and control across uneven terrain. Upgraded shocks and lift kits provide additional clearance and durability that support safe navigation over obstacles and rough surfaces. Proper suspension enhances comfort and vehicle capability during extended travel.

Regular maintenance ensures suspension components perform effectively and remain free from wear that could compromise safety during demanding use. Inspect parts for damage or fatigue and replace them as needed to maintain optimal performance across varied conditions. A reliable suspension system supports confident exploration of challenging terrain.

Pickup truck off-road travel offers rewarding experiences for drivers who prepare thoroughly and approach each journey with knowledge and respect for the terrain. Attention to equipment, technique, and planning ensures safety and enhances enjoyment across challenging environments encountered during exploration. With proper preparation and thoughtful decisions, every adventure becomes an opportunity to discover new landscapes with confidence.

Casey Cartwright is a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries from highly technical, consumer, and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.

Ready to hit the links? Tips to avoid common golf injuries at the beginning of a season

As golf season begins, OSF HealthCare physical therapist Michael Hahndorf recommends beginning with home stretching routines and practice swings before visiting the driving range, starting with small buckets rather than large ones. Key elements of injury prevention include proper swing posture and daily stretching routines.

Golfer practices her swing on a practice tee

Photo: Kampus Productions/PEXELS

That first swing of golf season can come with risk if your body isn't ready. Tips for preventing injuries include stretching routines and practice swings maintaining proper posture throughout your swing.

by Paul Arco
OSF Healthcare

Every year, more than 500 million golf rounds are played on courses across the country. And while anxious golfers are racing to local courses for a quick round, that first swing of the season can come with a risk if your body isn’t ready.

“I think about the low back, especially the population that plays golf tends to be a little bit older sometimes,” says Michael Hahndorf, a physical therapist with OSF HealthCare. The lower back, the shoulders. You think about the arms and wrists are important, but you don't want to forget about your foundation as well – your legs, your ankles, your knees, your hips, all that is important too. It goes back to just stretching and being more prepared for what's coming when you do play.”

Hahndorf recommends starting a stretching routine. Before starting any round, give yourself at least 10-15 minutes to properly stretch your back, hamstrings, abdominals, arms and shoulders to stay flexible. And make sure to get plenty of practice swings in before you head over to the first tee. Start with the smaller irons and work your way up to the driver and not just on the first hole with the first swing.

Walking nine or 18 holes can be challenging, especially if you’ve been mostly sedentary for the past several months. Even carrying a golf bag can cause back and shoulder pain.

Start walking to warm up

“Start to walk nice and easy. Get your body used to kind of physical activity again, taking some swings at home without even going to the driving range,” Hahndorf says. “It could be something as simple as going to the driving range and hitting a small bucket versus large, and then kind of working your way into nine holes for a little bit, and then slowly transitioning to those 18 holes. Because it's going to be a big change of pace from nine to 18 over the course of time.”

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Walking after months of inactivity can be challenging. To get back into top form, start with stretching and work up gradually to prevent early-season golf injuries.

For the most part, golf is a relatively safe sport, but injuries can happen, especially because of not using proper form or technique. The keys of a good swing include good posture, a stable lower back, and a slow relaxed swing. An early-season injury, especially during cooler temperatures, can really set back a golfer for a few days to weeks.

“When it comes to a good golf swing, you think about having good posture and having a flat back,” Hahndorf says. “Have your hips tucked underneath you, have your knees bent a little and those arms straight down. Posture plays a role importantly there, because it's going to allow for that rotation.”

And remember to spend some time stretching again following when the round is over. “It's important to stretch before to warm up but also afterwards, so you can kind of get ahead of some of that soreness. Because it can be tough for the first couple rounds,” says Hahndorf. “Just maintain just a gentle stretching routine for five to 10 minutes a day to keep that low back, hip, shoulder mobility kind of where it was when you ended.”

A little soreness is expected early in the golf season. But any pain that lingers or gets worse might call for physical therapy. Touch base with your medical provider with any nagging concerns.

“Just take care of your body. If something hurts, pay attention,” Hahndorf says. “You know how things are supposed to feel. So, if it feels off make sure you're reaching out if you need to.”

TAGS: golf injury prevention tips stretching routine, lower back pain golf season prevention, OSF HealthCare physical therapy golf injuries, how to prepare body for golf season

Winter tennis; Dodds Tennis Center Senior Drop-In Workout is back

The Senior Drop-In Tennis Workout returns to Dodds Tennis Center starting Nov. 4, 2025. Every Tuesday from 9-11 a.m., participants 16 and older can enjoy doubles and singles matches while staying active and meeting new players. .

by Clark Brooks

Sentinel Sports

CHAMPAIGN - Playing tennis isn’t just fun — it’s good for your brain. Studies show that regular tennis play can help maintain cognitive function and may delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For seniors looking to stay active and sharp, the Senior Drop-In Workout is back at Dodds Tennis Center. Starting Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, participants can join two hours of weekly match play. Sessions run every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. through Dec. 30, 2025.

The self-organized workout focuses mainly on doubles, with singles matches included as needed. Participants can enjoy a great workout while meeting new players. The program is open to anyone 16 and older. The fee is $12 per person, payable in advance or at the front desk on Tuesday mornings.

Workouts take place at Dodds Tennis Center, 2802 Farber Drive, Champaign. For more information, contact Yuri Sohn at yuri.sohn@champaignparks.org. Sign up online with the Champaign Park District.

Iowa's Kumskis finishes in the Top 25 at Illinois Marathon

Greta Kumskis placed 23rd among women and 7th in her age group at the Illinois Marathon, capping a strong race day performance in Champaign-Urbana.

Greta Kumskis running in the Illinois Marathon

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Running down Logan Street in Champaign between the 14th and 15th mile, marathoner Greta Kumskis looks over at cheering spectators. She finished 7th in her age group in this year's race.

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CHAMPAIGN - Greta Kumskis made her day at the Illinois Marathon count on a chilly Saturday morning in Champaign-Urbana. The 24-year-old from Iowa City, Iowa, powered through the 26.2-mile course to finish 7th in the women’s 20-24 division, clocking a 3:23:28. Kumskis placed 23rd among 268 female competitors and 170th out of 895 total marathon finishers, a strong showing in a field packed with experienced racers.

Kumskis started conservatively, covering her first mile in 8:05 before quickening her pace to a steady 7:41 per mile once the pack began to thin. She hit the 10K mark at 8:21 a.m. and crossed the halfway split at 1:41:24. Staying composed through the back half, she finished just behind Rachel Pfeifer (21st, 3:21:54) and Allison Kroeter (22nd, 3:22:28), while holding off Sarah Bass (24th, 3:24:11) and Paige Vanetten (25th, 3:24:35). Kumskis crossed the Memorial Stadium finish line at 10:56 a.m., averaging 7:46 per mile.

On a day that began with cool winds and ended under clearing skies, Kumskis and almost 900 other finishers proved they could handle whatever race day brought.

Tera Moody led the women’s field from start to finish, claiming the overall title with a 2:47:21 finish and a dominant performance in the 40-44 division. Moody was 20th overall among all marathoners, male or female.

Jessica Rockafellow of Palatine, Illinois, was the runner-up, posting a 2:50:11 to win the 30-34 age division and finish 27th overall. Rounding out the top three was Alicia Hudelson from Missoula, Montana, whose 2:58:48 effort secured second in the women’s 40-44 division and 50th place overall.

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Top seven cities in the Midwest to move if you love to play tennis

Tennis is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that can improve both your physical and mental well-being. If you're moving to another state and love tennis, these top seven cities in the Midwest provide everything you need to enjoy the sport.

SNS - If you are a tennis enthusiast relocating to the Midwest, consider yourself fortunate. The Midwest consists of several of the country's most tennis-aware cities. Whether you are a newcomer to the sport or an experienced veteran, these top seven cities in the Midwest have excellent tennis facilities, dynamic tennis communities, and many avenues to improve your game.

Tennis is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that can improve both your physical and mental well-being. Regular play helps enhance cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and improve flexibility. Beyond the physical benefits, tennis fosters social connections, offering a chance to meet new people and form lasting friendships. Whether you're hitting the courts alone or joining a community league, tennis is a great way to stay active and engaged.

If you want to win more tennis matches, focusing on outdoor play is a great way to improve your game. Outdoor courts, with their unique conditions, can help you develop better footwork, adjust to different playing surfaces, and build mental toughness, all of which contribute to more victories on the court.

Most people may think of cities in New York, Florida or California when they think of tennis hotspots. Still, there are thriving tennis communities with top-notch courts and competitive opportunities in the Midwest. While indoor facilities guarantee year-round playability, the local climate provides ideal conditions for outdoor tennis, particularly during the summer.

Minneapolis, Minnesota:
A Tennis City with Active Communities

Minneapolis has a great mix of indoor and outdoor tennis options. There are many parks in the city, and many of them have tennis courts so you can play tennis with your kid or have an active day with friends. With numerous local clubs providing lessons, leagues, and events, Minneapolis boasts a robust tennis community as well.

Despite the city's frigid winters, there are plenty of indoor tennis courts, such as the Baseline Tennis Center, which make it simple to play all year round. Local tennis players can easily find opportunities to connect, whether through casual games or more competitive leagues. Thanks to the vibrant tennis culture here, both recreational and competitive tennis players have many chances to get better and compete.

Chicago, Illinois:
A Tennis Lover’s Dream

Chicago boasts some of the finest tennis clubs in the Midwest, catering to recreational players and serious competitors alike. Leading the pack is Midtown Athletic Club, a luxury facility in the West Loop featuring indoor and outdoor courts, elite coaching, and USTA-sanctioned tournaments. Nearby, XS Tennis Village stands out with its 26-court complex in Washington Park, hosting major events like the Chicago Open while fostering youth development through its nonprofit arm.

The historic Chicago Tennis Club, one of the oldest in the city, offers a more intimate setting with red clay courts and a strong community vibe. For those seeking upscale amenities, East Bank Club in River North provides top-tier instruction and well-maintained courts alongside fitness and dining options. Meanwhile, McFetridge Sports Center serves as an affordable, year-round public option with reliable indoor play — making it a favorite among local leaguers.

For players looking for outdoor options, the Chicago Park District maintains more than 500 public tennis courts across the city, many free to use and set in scenic parks and neighborhoods. Popular sites like Lincoln Park, Grant Park and Jackson Park offer well-maintained courts that stay busy from spring through fall. The park district also offers lessons, leagues, and tournaments for all ages and skill levels, helping grow Chicago’s tennis community from the ground up.

Do you have an up and coming youth player in your family? When it comes to high school tennis, few programs match the sustained success of New Trier High School, whose boys and girls teams have claimed numerous state titles thanks to deep talent pools and elite coaching. Hinsdale Central is another perennial contender, particularly in boys tennis, with a reputation for producing nationally ranked juniors. Rounding out the top three is Stevenson High School, a consistent force in both singles and doubles, known for its disciplined players and strategic prowess. These programs not only dominate the state championships but also feed collegiate rosters, cementing Chicago’s reputation as a hotbed for junior tennis talent in the Midwest.

Indianapolis, Indiana:
A Hidden Tennis Gem

Tennis is just one of the many sports that are popular in Indianapolis. There are several tennis facilities in the city, such as the Indianapolis Tennis Center, which holds events and tournaments. Tennis courts can be found in many local public parks, and some clubs offer memberships for access to the best facilities. Tennis enthusiasts from all skill levels congregate in Indianapolis. The city is also well known for having a low cost of living, which makes it an attractive choice for people who want to relocate to a new state without going over budget.

St. Louis, Missouri:
A Thriving Tennis Hub

With a variety of tennis facilities and activities, St. Louis is an excellent city for tennis players. To foster a friendly atmosphere for tennis enthusiasts, the St. Louis Community Tennis Association offers programs that assist both novice and expert players.

To guarantee year-round play, St. Louis also has indoor tennis clubs and several excellent public tennis courts maintained by the city's parks department. With numerous tennis clubs and frequent tennis tournaments, the city offers a wide range of social and competitive opportunities. If you are planning on moving to another state, St. Louis should be at the top of your list.

Cleveland, Ohio:
Where Tennis Meets Urban Living

Cleveland is another Midwestern city with a surprising love for tennis. With more than 200 tennis courts spread across the city, tennis players can find a court to match their needs. Cleveland also offers numerous tennis leagues, tournaments, and social events to engage with the local community.

The city’s tennis culture is welcoming to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you're looking for a casual game or want to compete, Cleveland is the place to be. The city is also undergoing significant revitalization, making it an even more attractive place to live for those looking to relocate and pursue their tennis passion.

Madison, Wisconsin:
A Smaller City with Big Tennis Appeal

Madison may be smaller than some of the other cities on this list, but it offers a fantastic tennis scene. The city has numerous public tennis courts, as well as private clubs that offer lessons and leagues. During the colder months, there are 32 indoor courts available for those who need their weekly tennis fix.

Madison’s tennis community is active and friendly, and the city frequently hosts local tournaments. With beautiful parks and outdoor courts, the city is perfect for tennis enthusiasts who love to play outdoors. Madison's smaller size makes it a great place to settle down, with a more relaxed pace of life compared to bigger cities. Its tennis culture makes it an ideal place for newcomers looking to find a welcoming and engaging tennis community.

Champaign-Urbana, IL:
#7 - The Hidden Gem

If you're looking for a fresh start and a place to improve your tennis game, these cities should be at the top of your list. However, just two and a half hours south of Chicago, three hours north of St. Louis, and an hour and a half west of Indianopolis sits the twin cities of Champaign-Urbana, home of the University of Illinois.

The C-U area boasts two six-court indoor tennis facilities with affordable fees and year-round programs, all set within a vibrant campus community of 130,000. What makes the twin cities an ideal place to relocate is the abundance of outdoor courts: within a ten-mile radius of campus, there are more than a hundred courts open to the public at no charge, including over 40 with lights that stay on until 11 p.m., making evening play easy and accessible. As home to the Big Ten’s Fighting Illini, the area also offers no shortage of opportunities to watch high-level college and professional tennis year-round.

Like Madison, the Champaign-Urbana tennis community is active with the ability to play seven days a week with seven or more different organized groups at one of the dozens of outdoor, well-kept parks.

Finding Your Tennis Home in the Midwest

If you're moving to another state and love tennis, these top seven cities in the Midwest provide everything you need to enjoy the sport. From world-class tennis facilities to active communities and regular events, these cities offer both casual and competitive players a place to thrive. Whether you prefer outdoor tennis during the warmer months or indoor play when it's cold, the Midwest provides year-round opportunities for tennis lovers.

Feel the Rush!

Struhar dominates 30-34 division, Marcos repeats at Illinois Marathon

Jan Struhar crushed the 30-34 division and cracked the Top 10 overall at the Illinois Marathon, clocking 2:40:31. Meanwhile, Champaign’s own Jaime Marcos dominated the field with a repeat victory in 2:22:23.

Jan Struhar running at the Illinois Marathon

CHAMPAIGN - Jan Struhar made sure his trip to Champaign was worth it. Racing under overcast skies and cool mid-50s temperatures, the DWRunning athlete took control of his race early and held strong to the finish, claiming first place in the Men's 30-34 age division at Saturday’s Illinois Marathon. Struhar’s time of 2:40:31 not only locked up the divisional win among 83 runners, but also earned him 10th place overall in the men’s division and 10th place across the entire marathon field.

Struhar’s splits showed early consistency, passing the 10K mark at 37:42 and reaching the halfway point (13.1 miles) at 1:19:47. Down the stretch, he fended off Samuel Fiedorek, who clocked 2:41:03 to finish 11th, and Haran Dunderdale, who came through in 2:42:03 for 12th. Struhar’s effort capped a strong day for Chicago’s DWRunning team, coached by longtime veteran Dave Walters, who’s been developing marathoners for decades.

Jan Struhar running at Illinois Marathon

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Shedding Bokata somewhere after the 13th mile, Struhar runs solo uphill on Logan Street in Champaign near the 14-1/2 mile mark with Hinds (not pictured) still nearby.

Up front, it was all Jaime Marcos. The 26-year-old from Champaign defended his crown in style, slicing over seven minutes off his 2024 winning time to cross first in 2:22:23, running a blistering 5:26-per-mile pace. Marcos separated early and never looked back, leading at halfway in 1:10:59 and putting daylight between himself and the rest of the field.

Behind him, Martin O’Connell of Madison, Wisconsin, locked down second place in 2:26:04, four minutes adrift of Marcos. Just five seconds later, Caleb Kerr of Zionsville, Indiana, grabbed third with a 2:26:09 finish. The trio broke away from the pack early and never relinquished their medal positions, each benefiting from the flat, fast course winding through the three cities that make up the course.

Marathon headlines

Moody leads women's Top Ten finishers at Illinois Marathon

Brian Martin’s steady stride leads to Top-10 finish at Illinois Marathon

Photo Gallery | Running around Urbana, faces and places from Illinois Marathon

Champaign’s Jaime Marcos carves out Illinois Marathon repeat victory