Hiking is one very common exercise in the US, it helps you spend time with nature, improve your general well-being and clear your mind. These are just a few of the numerous benefits of hiking. We will like to share more of them with you, stay with us.
Mental calmness
Mayo clinic said stress can result in headaches, stomach upset, fatigue, and sleeping problems. Being exposed to nature like this has a great impact on your mental health. The change of atmosphere, natural sound from birds, trees, etc., all help to calm every mental noise and give you a sense of well-being. The sights and sounds of nature provide a gentle rhythm that your autonomic nervous system can relate to. You know, having a clear mind is vital to staying focused in life and achieving set goals, so, give hiking a try.
Enhanced lower body strength
Hiking triggers your leg and spine more than any other exercise. Strong quads, glutes, hamstrings, and a stable lower back prepares you for more hike. Hiking also increases your balance and reflexes thereby making it easy for you to take the stairs, lift things, and carry out other lower body activities. You will feel the ‘burn’ during hiking, it’s a good sign of an effective leg workout.
Good for your heart
The heart is a vital organ of the body, it has muscles that need to be warmed up. Hiking helps to exercise the muscles, increase heart rate, and improve your cardiovascular health. Research has shown that heart disease is the major cause of death in the United States, both in men and women. Dr. Steven Reisman a cardiologist said, ‘this type of exercise will decrease bad cholesterol levels and increase good ones.’ So, whether you are fit or out of shape, you need a healthy heart and this you can maintain through hiking.
Helps you lose weight
Hiking is a healthy, weight-shedding, calorie-burning exercise. Losing weight can be a challenge, but when you step out to the mountains, it’s fun and you can lose weight without realizing it. This is easy especially when you go hiking every weekend since the location is close to you. You can do this more often to stay fit.
Relieve insomnia and improve sleep
Research has shown that regular exercise like hiking can improve sleep. It may be due to its ability to keep you relaxed and calm your mind. Another way is that staying outside and getting exposed to natural light can affect sleep patterns. Shawn Stevenson explains in his book, “Sleep Smarter”, he said that ‘being exposed to sunlight in the morning helps the secretion of melatonin, a sleep hormone at night. Therefore, a good night’s sleep is a great reason to go hiking.
Conclusion
Hiking is a fantastic form of exercise we will recommend you try. If you know your trip will demand more from you than you can handle, ensure you prepare for it and have fun.