The Benefits of Hiking

Sep 17, 2015
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Dump the caffeine. Hiking has plenty of benefits for the body and mind that put your regular dose of caffeine (tasty as it is) to shame. For starters, hiking doesn't require much other than your time, and it doesn't matter how fit you are. Most people who live within hiking trails are discovering that it's a good way to get fit, enjoy the outdoors and know the area.

Better mental health

Hiking varies in some ways from your conventional gym workout regimens and machines. Depending on the hiking route you take, the environment changes as you go, and the seasons are not bound to be the same every time. It makes for a more interesting workout, and you can move as fast as you want. Additionally, telling friends to join you on a hike can feel more adventurous and entertaining than exercising in a gym.

Being outdoors is a great way to relieve stress, which leads to improved mood, concentration, and easier sleep. Conquering a difficult trail, for example, can help you feel like you’ve accomplished something tangible.

Better physical health


Hiking is easy for any person, mainly because it doesn’t require any pre-set level of fitness. For people wishing to improve their fitness, taking on more difficult trails is the way to go. Those who want to lose weight would also be wise to take up hiking, as the exercise can burn off almost the same amount of calories as an intense jogging session.

Sarah Eller of Wake County, NC, who regularly takes hiking trips to the nearby Crowders Mountain. She loves the outdoors and has participated in numerous hiking challenges in the area.
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