Blue Mountains hiking is a great low-impact workout. According to studies, it offers several mental and physical benefits. From preventing osteoporosis to reducing anxiety, Blue Mountains hiking is an outdoor activity that has so much to offer other than fun and scenic view. Unlike walking on a paved path or treadmill, hiking involves more variables, especially in the Blue Mountains. These variables are part of what makes it enjoyable and fun.So the next time someone tells you to “take a hike,” or you are offered Blue Mountains hiking at a discounted rate, you might want to thank them or grab the opportunity as quickly as possible as you stand to benefit greatly from it. In this article are some of the ways Blue Mountains hiking can enhance your health and overall well-being.
Increased Level of Fitness
Just trekking for one hour can help you burn more than 500 calories, depending on the weight of the backpack you are carrying or the level of incline. Hiking trails are usually softer on joints than concrete or asphalt, so it is easier on your knees and ankles compared to running. Weight loss results are even better when you head for the hills. Not only are you burning so much calorie, but altitude has also proven to be an ally of weight loss.
Image Source: Pexels
Take Charge of Your Workout
With Blue Mountains hiking, you are the boss of your own course: is it a precipitous trek up a mountain or a slowly inclining scenic trail? You also get to set your distance and pace. Whether you want a long distance experience, a weekend in the woods, or an afternoon hike, you are not taking orders from any bossy fitness trainer telling you to work harder.
Tones the Whole Body
Regular trekking can make the shape of your butt better, but embarking on sharp inclines, climbing over rocks, and using hiking poles to impel your forward gives your body an all-around workout. Physically, you will be working your entire body, especially the lower region of your body including the hamstrings, glutes, and quads. If you are hiking along with a backpack, then you will be challenging the endurance and strength of your upper body also.
Prevents or Control Diabetes
Regular hiking can help you prevent or control diabetes by reducing the levels of sugar in your blood. When you hike, you work out your muscles, and this process moves glucose from your bloodstream for energy.
Reduces Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Hiking through the trails once in a while reduces cholesterol and blood pressure, hence minimizing the chances of diabetes, heart attack, and stroke. In fact, hiking downhill is far much effective at improving glucose tolerance and removing blood sugars.
Increased Creativity
According to studies, engaging in outdoor activities, such as Blue Mountains hiking, increases creative problem-solving skills and attention spans by a whopping 50%. Researchers from the Graduate School of Education at Standard University have also found out that walking increases the flow of your creative juices far more than sitting.
Curb Depression and Increases happiness Levels
Studies have also shown that taking on hiking as a conventional therapy can improve the state of people with severe depression issues and make them feel less depressed, suicidal, and depressed. It might also help depressed patients to lead a more active lifestyle.
Interact with Nature
Taking a walk in nature, away from the commotion daily routine and technology, provides an enabling environment for people to connect with nature and themselves in a way that brings about natural peace and a sense of well-being.