Benefits of Hiking
Hiking can be challenging and exhausting, but at the same time, it can also be easy and fun. Getting in to nature offers a way to find some silence and clarity and it provides us a peaceful escape. It pulls us away from the hustle and bustle of the metro and take us into a serene wildness.
Getting outside for a hike can be a breath of fresh air—literally. Aside from hiking being a good form of exercise, walking through nature comes with other health benefits and here are some of those:
Reduces risk of heart disease
As with all exercise, hiking comes with heart health benefits. According to studies, exercise can reduce your risk of heart disease. It is because when you work out, your circulation improves and your heart becomes stronger. Which is why it is being recommended that everyone gets at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
Helps bring strong muscles and bones
Hiking helps build stabilizing muscles in the legs and core to improve balance. It also strengthens other muscles of the body including the arms and back. Overall, hiking is a great exercise for almost every major muscle group in the body. This is because walking uphill engages the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves while hiking downhill engages the ankles, hips, and core.
Increases bone density
Hiking plays a really good role in bone density. Bone density refers to the amount of bone mineral in your bones. High bone density is important for preventing broken bones and reducing risk for osteoporosis. And hiking helps improve bone density by strengthening the bone tissue.
Eases stress and boosts mental wellbeing
A lot of research supports the notion that connecting with nature improves mental health and well-being. Whether we are just gazing at a spectacular view or walking in the field full of roses, these experiences of feeling “wowed” by nature can make us feel happy and less stressed.
So, plan your hike ahead and remember that a time spent in nature is good for you.
