The topic is about managing an active lifestyle, including swimming, hiking, and wearing everyday clothing, while living with an ostomy. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have navigated similar challenges:

- The originator wants to continue enjoying activities like swimming and hiking but faces challenges with their ostomy pouch, which bulges, needs frequent emptying, and is visible through clothing. They currently wear loose tops and elastic-waist pants, and after meals, the pouch fills even faster. They are unsure how to manage swimming or emptying the pouch while hiking and wonder if a container is necessary.

- After sharing their concerns, they reported successfully hiking for 2 hours and doing an hour of Pilates. They have an abdominal ostomy and a fistula with a second bag on the back. They still hope to resume lap-swimming, canoeing, and full-day hikes.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights from others:

1. Emptying on the trail:
- Find a secluded spot, dig a small hole, empty the pouch, and cover it, similar to any back-country bathroom break.
- Improvise as needed; many hikers continue their routines with a bit more discretion.

2. Clothing tips:
- Many people eventually return to wearing regular clothes like jeans, leggings, or anything comfortable.
- Retro-style high-waist bathing suits, one-piece suits with built-in skirts, and leggings under skirts can help hide the pouch and keep it secure.
- Some prefer skin-tight jeans or leggings, while others opt for roomier fits to avoid pressure on the wafer.
- Untucked shirts, sweatshirts, or longer tops can help camouflage bulges. Comfort becomes more important over time.

3. Swimming and gym activities:
- Empty the pouch before swimming and avoid large meals right before.
- One-piece suits with small skirts or high-waist retro cuts offer good coverage; investing in quality can be worthwhile.
- Most people at pools or gyms don't notice the pouch, and if someone asks, a simple explanation usually suffices. Kids are curious but accept straightforward answers.

4. General adjustment and confidence:
- It takes time to learn diet triggers, recognize early signs of a leak, and carry spare supplies for quick changes.
- Staying calm when issues arise reassures those around you; your attitude sets the tone.
- Many long-term ostomates find they forget about the ostomy during daily life and travel more than before.

5. Supplies to carry:
- A small emergency kit with a spare pouch, wafer, wipes, and disposal bags is handy for any outing.
- For trail days, include toilet paper or wipes and a lightweight trowel for digging a cathole.