Reasons Why Hiking Is Good for You

Lacing up the hiking boots and heading out for the trail benefits people of all ages in many ways. Besides the physical benefits, hikers experience the sights and sounds of nature, which can reduce stress and build a sense of accomplishment by going from one point to another on foot.

  1. Weight Loss

    • A healthy weight is the basis of a healthy body. Hiking burns calories, particularly on hilly or mountainous trails. Hiking burns over 400 calories an hour for someone who weighs 160 pounds. Heavier people burn even more calories when hiking. The more weight a hiker carries helps him burn even more calories. Most hikers carry at least a quart of water, which adds two pounds to a backpack. Fruit or raw vegetables make good snacks for hiking and also promote weight loss.

    Disease Prevention

    • Hiking can lower blood sugar in diabetics and help prevent it in those predisposed to it, since exercise lowers blood sugar. Hiking also stimulates the cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The heart pumps more blood around the body, which provides nutrition for the cells, including the brain. Walking limbers and strengthens the muscles, including those in the back, often strained by sitting for hours at a time.

    Endurance

    • Developing physical endurance has many benefits. As the heart works to supply blood to muscles used in hiking, the lungs work harder, strengthening them and increasing lung capacity. Endurance has benefits off the hiking trail that include higher energy levels and a faster metabolic rate. Hiking also builds stronger bones and improves balance, preventing broken bones from falls.

    Mental Benefits

    • Spending time on the trail hiking increases the body's production of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that give people a sense of enjoyment and well-being. Hiking also reduces depression and anxiety levels. Developing the skills to take on more challenging hiking trails and increasing the distance covered over time also builds self-confidence. Spending time in the outdoors hiking relaxes both mind and body, reducing stress.