Incorporating hiking into your daily routine can significantly improve both physical and mental health. Whether you're hiking a challenging mountain trail or taking a relaxing stroll in the woods, hiking has many benefits. We caught up with a health expert to share seven health benefits of hiking.
From fitness to mental health: 7 health benefits of hiking (Image courtesy: iStock)
Nature is the best healer. Whether it's a barefoot walk in the park or a stroll through the woods. Hiking Trail walking makes us healthy from the inside out. Hiking isn't just a recreational activity; it's a powerful way to improve physical and mental health. Hiking offers a unique blend of cardiovascular workouts, muscle strengthening, and stress relief. Whether you're traveling through mountain trails, walking through forest paths, or exploring local parks, hiking is your best option. health benefits of hiking We got in touch with Dr. Indramani Upadhyay, MPT (Ortho), HOD – The Centre for Knee & Hip Care, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, who spoke about the myriad benefits of hiking regularly.
Dr. Indramani Upadhyay explains that hiking is a great cardiovascular exercise. It increases your heart rate, which improves blood circulation and oxygen supply throughout the body. Regular hiking can reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
“Walking on different terrains requires the use of multiple muscle groups. Climbing uphill strengthens the quadriceps, glutes and calves, while climbing downhill strengthens the hip, knee and lower back muscles. This comprehensive workout helps in building muscular endurance and strength,” he added.
Dr. Indramani Upadhyay explains that hiking is an effective way to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. The number of calories burned depends on the difficulty of the trail and the weight of the hiker, but it can be comparable to other forms of aerobic exercise such as running or cycling.
4. Improves bone density
Weight-bearing exercises like hiking are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Walking on a variety of surfaces promotes bone growth and helps prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures, she said.
Dr. Indramani Upadhyay explains that spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety and depression. The combination of physical activity and the calm atmosphere of the outdoors releases endorphins, which improve mood and overall mental health.
6. Improved balance and coordination
Dr. Indramani Upadhyay explains that hiking often involves traversing uneven terrain, which challenges your balance and coordination. Regular practice can enhance these skills, reduce the risk of falls and improve overall stability, which is especially important as you age.
“Regular exposure to nature and physical activity can strengthen the immune system. Hiking can increase the production of white blood cells, which help the body fight infection. Additionally, fresh air and sunlight provide vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining a strong immune response,” he added.