Many people write about how hiking or
being out in nature is good for the body and the mind, but everyone
shies away from mentioning your soul. I think this is important to
help feed the soul and let it absorb the wonders of nature and
refresh itself in the beauty around you.
This article in WebMD emphasizes the
body and mind being helped by hiking and this is true. Hiking does
have its perks. You can take advantage of the scenery, fresh air,
sounds, and smells of nature. This is true if you are not downwind
of certain animals and some landfills.
Hiking in nature is a great cardio
workout that equals or exceeds the benefits of walking. These
benefits include less risk of heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer,
and colon cancer. Then you can add help with blood pressure and
blood glucose levels. Many people forget about the benefit of
boosting bone density, and helping prevent osteoporosis.
Besides the above, hiking can help in
weight management, muscle strength in most of the muscle groups.
Gregory A. Miller, PhD, president of the American Hiking Society
says, "Research shows that hiking has a positive impact on
combating the symptoms of stress and anxiety."
Safety should always come first.
Always consult your doctor if you are starting a hiking regimen to
make sure there are no health problems that could end this. These
hiking tips should be kept in mind:
#1. Start slow. Short local
hikes are best for beginners and keep them on fairly level terrain at
the start.
#2. Bring a buddy. Starting
slowly means, you should not be on unfamiliar or remote trails, but
if everything looks good, it is wise to take a buddy or be part of a
group. As your skill improves, you may be more comfortable going
solo.
#3. Know before you go. Always
familiarize yourself with the trail map, check the weather and pack
for the day. If storms are predicted, it may be wise to rethink your
plan for the day.
#4. Use common sense. Until
you know the hiking area, follow marked paths and trails. Avoid
contact with questionable plants, give certain animals a wide area,
and be careful of the pungent animals.
#5. Get into a groove. On days
when it is wise to avoid nature trails, try to power-walk on hilly
terrain in familiar areas. Try to carry various amount of weight in
a backpack (water is always good). This will help keep your hiking
skills and fitness level up.
Are you past the beginner level? Now
it is time to get more out of your hiking and boost your fitness
level. The following are suggestions:
#1. Use poles. Use poles to
dig into the ground and push yourself forward for increasing upper
body strength and to give you a stronger cardio workout.
#2. Head for the hills. Even a
short hill may intensify your heart rate and burn extra calories.
#3. Bump it up. If you have
the stamina and no problems, try some uneven terrain, which will work
muscles and improve balance and stability.
#4. Weigh yourself down. Add
extra weight to your pack (see #5 above). This can boost your
calorie burn while strengthening your lower back muscles.
#5. Keep safety first. I
cannot emphasize this enough. Always be alert for animals in some
areas of the country, such as bears, and even coyotes. Most of the
time they will avoid you, but if they are hungry, then be wary.
Listen to news reports for animal problems near when you are planning
to hike. Animals can vary by the area of the country in which you
live. In some of the southern areas of the USA, snakes and other
reptiles may be of concern.
Above all, enjoy yourself and consider
taking a camera with you. David Mendosa has a blog you should read
about his exploits with his cameras.
Always take your blood glucose meter
and testing supplies with you, in addition to glucose tablets or
glucose gel, and if needed, your medication.
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