We all want to stay fit and healthy but the idea of going to the gym and start lifting weights with all the sweat pouring out of us is not really for everyone. Even working out at home can become a bit of a bore especially when you’re doing the same old routine. If these options don’t appeal to you at all, you might want to take your fitness routine outdoors. Walking around the block is all well and good but if you want to torch some serious fats then why not try hiking?
Here are some health benefits that you can gain when you choose hiking as your fitness routine.
- You get to improve your overall health. One of the best health benefits that you can get from going hiking is that you’ll feel better overall. Not only will you feel happy with the prospect of seeing new places but you’re also training your body to burn fats considerably. Of course, if this is just your first time, you need to condition your body first by going out for 5 to 10 minutes walks per day then increasing the amount of time per day. This will help build your stamina and your leg muscles too.
- You take control of your fitness routine. Another benefit to hiking is that you have complete control over your fitness. You can walk at your own pace and you can challenge yourself by going up or down steep inclines. What’s more, you can dictate how far you’re going every time you go on a hike so you can test yourself.
- You can reduce your risk of cardiovascular problems. What else can you get out of hiking? Well, this fitness routine is actually effective in reducing your risk of suffering from cardio problems like stroke or heart attack because you are exercising your heart. This in turn causes your heart to pump more blood into your body thus preventing any clogging in your arteries. Also, going on hikes can lower your blood pressure so you won’t suffer from high blood pressure which can lead to heart problems.
- You tone your entire body. Aside from working out your heart, you are also helping tone your entire muscles. Hiking is not just about walking but it also includes climbing at times, walking on running water, and even pulling others up especially when your trek is up the mountains. You might not consider this at first but the more you hike, the better your physique can be.
- You get to lose weight. Think about all the walking and climbing that you are going to do in this fitness routine. For sure you will see some serious pounds dropping off if you make this part of your regular fitness program. Adding a healthy diet into the mix and you’ll love the results for sure.
These are just a few health benefits that you can actually gain when you go on a hike. So the next time you’re looking for a way to stay fit, do try this one out.
Sources: rei.com
