Fitness To Mental Health: 7 Health Benefits Of Hiking

Fitness To Mental Health: 7 Health Benefits Of Hiking (Image Credits: iStock)

Nature is the best healer. Whether walking in a park barefoot or going on a hiking trail, it heals us inside out. Hiking is more than just a recreational activity; it's a powerful way to boost physical and mental well-being. Hiking offers a unique blend of cardiovascular workouts, muscle strengthening, and stress relief. Whether you’re travelling through mountain trails, meandering through forest paths, or exploring local parks, the health benefits of hiking are innumerable. We got in touch with Dr Indramani Upadhyay, MPT (Ortho), HOD - The Center for Knee and Hip Care, Vaishali, Ghaziabad who shares the myriad benefits that regular hiking can offer.

1. Cardiovascular Health

Dr Indramani Upadhyay shares that hiking is an excellent 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.

2. Muscle Strengthening

“Navigating different terrains requires the use of multiple muscle groups. Uphill climbs strengthen the quadriceps, glutes, and calves, while downhill hikes engage the hips, knees, and lower back muscles. This comprehensive workout helps build muscle endurance and strength,” he said.

3. Weight Management

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 trail's difficulty and the hiker's weight, but it can be comparable to other forms of aerobic exercise such as running or cycling.

4. Bone Density Improvement

Weight-bearing exercises like hiking are crucial for maintaining healthy bones. The physical impact of walking on varied surfaces stimulates bone growth and helps prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures, he mentioned.

5. Enhanced Mental Health

Dr Indramani Upadhyay shares that spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of physical activity and the calming environment of the outdoors releases endorphins, which improve mood and overall mental well-being.

6. Improved Balance and Coordination

Dr Indramani Upadhyay shares, that hiking often involves navigating uneven terrain, which challenges your balance and coordination. Regular practice can enhance these skills, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall stability, particularly important as we age.

7. Boosted Immune System

“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 off infections. Additionally, the fresh air and sunlight provide vitamin D, essential for maintaining a robust immune response,” he said.