Most of us recognize that we need to exercise more. Still, with our increasingly hectic lifestyles, it's critical to prioritize the activities that will provide us with the most health benefits. Working out in a gym after a long day of sitting at a desk in a stuffy office could not be more unappealing.
It's no surprise that, to better their health, more people are skipping the gym and hitting the trails. And the good news is that just 30 minutes of walking or trekking every day can make a big difference in your health.
Do you need any convincing to put on your walking shoes? Here are some of the health benefits of hiking, some of which may surprise you.
1.Longer Life-
According to studies, walking 5 kilometers a week at a slow pace can reduce your risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure by 31%. 10,000 steps equal 5 miles, so if you're addicted to your Fitbit and find yourself walking around late at night to reach 10,000 steps, congratulations – you've smashed that goal!
Being physically active is another important factor in lowering your cancer risk. Exercise reduces estrogen levels in the bloodstream, which is thought to be why active women are 30 percent less likely to get breast cancer.
2.Improve Your Mood-
Doctors are increasingly recommending exercise like walking to treat depression, and numerous clinical trials have shown that exercise helps alleviate depressive symptoms in a similar way to antidepressant medication.
Trekking is a great way to lift your spirits since it combines the physical benefits of exercise with the mental health benefits of being in nature and interacting with other hikers.
3.Make Your Heart Stronger-
Walking becomes an aerobic workout when you push yourself to the point where conversing becomes impossible.
Some days on the Tour du Mont Blanc and Haute Route treks involve 1000m ascents, and you will be out of breath! Cardio exercise benefits heart health, blood pressure control, and cholesterol reduction.
4.Make Your Bones Stronger-
Your bones need to be loaded to keep their strength. Lifting weights and hiking with a rucksack are wonderful ways to increase bone density. Trekking also can be a low-impact form of exercise, which is beneficial for persons with joint discomfort.
5.Improve Your Equilibrium-
Hiking on trails is a great method to enhance your mental agility and balance. The uneven surface encourages your ankle's little stabilizing muscles to strengthen and react more quickly if you lose balance.
Proprioception is your body’s sixth sense that helps you balance and catches yourself if you trip. If we don't train our proprioception, it will naturally deteriorate as we age, putting us more vulnerable to accidents from falls.
Are You Looking For Your Next Trek?
If you've always wanted to go hiking in Nepal but don't know where to start, one of our guided tips might be right for you! You can choose Dolpo trekking in Nepal, Motor Bike tour in Nepal, and check out the latest Dolpo Trekking Package.