Inactivity is associated with a number of different health issues. Some of these issues incorporate, but aren’t limited to, the following:
- Cardiovascular disease,
- Osteoporosis,
- Coronary heart disease,
- Obesity,
- Diabetes, as well as
- Certain types of cancer.
Regardless of the health issues that are associated with inactivity, the good news is that evidence shows physical activity assists with preventing chronic disease and premature death. In addition, regular exercise improves health as well as quality of life. One great phenomenal of improving your health and to reduce chances of developing health concerns is to get outside and go hiking!
The Perks Of Hiking Outdoors
Hiking outdoors has a lot of fantastic perks, such as nice views, fresh air as well as the sounds and smells of nature.
It’s good for you, too. Hiking is a super powerful cardio workout which can:
- Lower your risk of heart disease
- Enhance your blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Boost bone density as walking is a weight-bearing exercise
- Building strength in your glutes, quads, hamstrings as well as the muscles in your hips and the lower part of your legs
- Strengthen your core
- Improve balance
- Assist with controlling your weight
Improved Sleep
Walking or climbing over uneven terrain makes use of 28% more energy as opposed to walking over flat ground. In addition, you are also removing all the new age stimuli which we often expose ourselves to throughout the day and right prior to bedtime (phones, computers, TVs and the like). The result? Better sleep!
Boosting Your Mood
Research has shown that hiking has a positive impact on combating the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Being in nature is so ingrained in our DNA, and we sometimes forget that.
It is suggested that the experience of hiking is unique as it conveys benefits beyond what you receive from the usual form of exercise that you’d do at the gym. Not only does hiking oxygenate your heart, but it helps keep your mind sharper, your body calmer, your creativity more alive as well as your relationships in a happier space.
Evidence also suggests that being around trees may provide extra benefits, perhaps because of certain organic compounds which they exude that boost our mood and our overall psychological well-being.
Hiking Clears The Mind So Reducing Stress
Our lives are more frenetic than they have ever been before. Nine to five jobs, full social calendars as well as everyday life admin is enough to keep us at a constant level of stress below the surface. Going for a hike has the effect of reducing your blood pressure and cortisol levels to produce a calming effect which only nature can offer – over and above the benefits of exercise alone.
Contact Trifocus Fitness Academy
Yoga is an ancient exercise form and has long been known for its stress-busting properties. Do our Yoga Instructor Course and see what all the fuss is about.
