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What are the benefits of hiking in the mountains?

Homepage Articles What are the benefits of hiking in the mountains?

What are the benefits of hiking in the mountains?

Dog walking in nature can also bring many health benefits. Mountain hiking is a very popular form of leisure time. What are the benefits of hiking in the mountains?

Table of Contents

1. Trekking is what it is, kind of

The level of difficulty of hiking depends primarily on the level of progress. In turn, more advanced people may choose more difficult trails, often requiring additional specialized equipment and climbing skills. Most often, mountain hiking is referred to, but other types are also distinguished, such as desert, glacial, volcanic or swampy. Beginners may choose an easier path (the difficulty level of a given path can be identified by a special designation).

2. The benefits of hiking in the mountains

Bratman et al. 2015). They allow people to overcome their own limitations, increase self-confidence and confidence in their abilities, which translates positively into professional and private life. Walks strengthen muscles and joints, improve fitness. They promote fat reduction, which is particularly important for people who struggle with overweight (D. Mountain hikes are ideal especially for those who live in the city on a daily basis. In addition, walking walks allow for stress, restful breathing, and relaxation from the problems of daily living. One of our recent studies showed that physical activity can also have a positive effect on the health of people who are overweight and who are depressed, and that it can have positive effects on their physical and mental health as well.

3. What to do to get in shape for a mountain hike

It is worth focusing on aerobic training (cycling, running or walking) and strength training, which will prepare the muscles and joints for the demanding effort. To properly prepare for the mountain trip, it is first of all necessary to remember about regular physical activity. During the mountain trek you have to face numerous approaches and descent, so adequate preparation is necessary to overcome the planned route. This is especially important for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle every day.

4. Something to take to the trail

If you are planning to reach a more difficult summit, remember to bring professional climbing equipment with you. The weather in the mountains is unpredictable, conditions can change diametrically within a few minutes. You should pack in your backpack: food for the whole day and water, jacket/coat for the tourist, well-equipped medicine cabinet, headgear, if you need a change of shoe, a loaded cell phone, a portable luggage, sleeping bag, tents, clothes (if the trip takes longer than three hours).

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Source

Bratman G.N. et al., Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation, „Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” 2015, 112(28), 8567–8572.
Bratman G.N. et al., The benefits of nature experience: Improved affect and cognition, „Landscape and Urban Planning” 2015, 138, 41–50.
Mitten D. et al., Hiking: A low-cost, accessible intervention to promote health benefits, „American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine” 2018, 12(4), 302–310.