Introduction
Hiking is one of the most natural activities as a human which we could partake in. Being able to be out in nature, out in the elements, and get our heart rate up through a good climb or walk is how we evolved. Our ability to walk and run with endurance was one of the most advantageous characteristics we have.
Today I’m going to cover the Top 7 Benefits of Hiking as a man.
Top 7 Benefits of Hiking
Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that provides a wide range of health benefits for those who participate in it. Here are a few of the ways that hiking can improve your physical and mental health:
- Improves cardiovascular health: Hiking is a form of moderate-intensity cardio exercise that can help to improve your heart health. It can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke by reducing high blood pressure, improving circulation, and increasing your heart’s efficiency. When cardiovascular health improves, endurance, recovery, and even immune system reap the benefits. Blood flow is very important for men’s health and testosterone.
- Increases muscle strength and endurance: Hiking requires the use of many different muscle groups, including the legs, core, and upper body. Over time, regular hiking can lead to increased muscle strength and endurance, which can improve your overall fitness levels. A great way to work out and get your heart rate up!
- Enhances weight management: Hiking is an effective way to burn calories and can aid in weight management. Depending on the intensity of the hike and the individual’s weight, an hour of hiking can burn between 300 to 500 calories, thus helping lose weight if trying to. When done consistently or when the muscle is built, it will increase the number of calories you also burn at rest to a slight degree. The more natural muscle mass, the better!
- Boosts mental well-being: Hiking in nature can provide a break from the stress and distractions of daily life and can help to improve your mood. It can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation. The reduction in base level cortisol and stress can feel great after the hike, but also will improve testosterone production, as excess cortisol drains the precursors to testosterone itself.
- Improves balance and coordination: Hiking over rough terrain can be challenging for balance and coordination. As a result, hiking regularly can improve your balance and coordination, which can help to reduce your risk of falling. This is very important in aging males, but very helpful as well to build the muscle stabilizers that aren’t hit as often through normal gym workouts even.
- Improves Sleep: The natural elements during a hike can help with the synchronization of circadian rhythms and provide a good night’s sleep by exhausting the body, thus improving the quality of sleep which boosts testosterone levels tremendously! Sleep is the ONE shot we have each night to boost testosterone production significantly. So if we’re able to destress by reducing cortisol, improving blood flow, and also expending energy to allow us to feel ready for sleep; we will be serving ourselves on all facets of health.
- Improves Vitamin D Levels: Being out in the sun can provide adequate exposure to sunlight to synthesize vitamin D through our skin. Too much of our lifestyle these days consists of staying indoors. So rebalancing and having activities outside in the sun can be crucial to keep Vitamin D levels stable.
Hiking is a low-impact activity that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It can be done alone or with friends and family and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and improve your health at the same time. So, put on your hiking boots and explore the beautiful nature trails near you, your mind and body will thank you!
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