Choosing to terminate a gym membership in order to cut back on the family finances is occurring more often as people struggle with their personal finances. Hiking can be an alternative to a gym membership and it is both physically and mentally beneficial.
An Inexpensive Sport
It isn’t necessary to go to the gym to stay in shape or to lose excess pounds. There are always local parks, beaches, hills or hiking trails nearby. If unaware of trails in the community consider visiting the website Gorp as it lists numerous trails by state and by region throughout the United States. It is also provides links to trails outside of the United States. This is an excellent site to plan hiking activities and even trips that are focused around hiking and camping.
Hiking is one of the most inexpensive sports available today. It doesn’t require any special equipment, except for a good solid pair of shoes and comfortable clothes. People do not need special training to participate in hiking and nor do they need to be at an advanced level of fitness to be involved in the sport. It is a simple way to exercise and people of all ages can choose to participate.
Health Benefits
Hiking can be appreciated at all different levels and it is considered exercise no matter what level it is performed at. Just walking along a trail can be beneficial. As people become more accustomed to walking, they can increase their intensity level, take longer walks, and hike at a higher incline. Either way, the exercise is great for a person’s physical health. It can help people shed excess pounds, help prevent hypertension or high blood pressure, and help prevent or control diabetes. Taking the time to hike on a regular basis can also help improve arthritis and relieve back pain, which has become increasingly more prevalent in today’s society.
Hiking can also help improve a person’s mental health. The exercise alone will help raise the levels of serotonin in the body, which will help improve the overall mood and outlook on life. Also, just taking the time to enjoy nature and viewing the world from different areas can actually help change a person’s perspective on life.
A Family Trip
Hiking doesn’t have to take place alone. The whole family can participate! There are some wonderful packs that Mom or Dad can wear and children can be placed on their backs while hiking. Often little children love to view new places and the rhythm of hiking is very relaxing. Older children can also improve their physical health and can have a lot of fun exploring while hiking with Mom and Dad.
Begin Hiking!
Schedule a visit with the doctor to talk about any health concerns before starting a hiking routine. Once that has a occurred, map out possible hiking trails. Short walks on easy surfaces (such as a local park) are best to start and as that becomes easier, choose trails that are little less simple, a little longer and may be on more of an incline. Set goals that are achievable each week and work up to a long trail that is of great interest by the end of the year.
Safety Concerns
- Bring plenty of water and a granola/protein bar.
- Be careful of wildlife. If there is a run in with any dangerous wildlife back away slowly and do not run.
- Be cautious of unfamiliar plants. They could be poisonous!
- Bring along a first-aid kit.
- Stay on the trail and don’t walk off at any point.
- Bring along a friend. If choosing to hike alone, tell family member or a friend exactly where you plan to hike. (If there is a ranger station or a check in point, leave your name and plans with the ranger prior to hiking).
- Check the weather before leaving as sudden changes in weather can be very dangerous.
Laura Block-Stewart - Hello- My name is Laura Block-Stewart and I am a professional writer and editor that, throughout the last 14 years, has focused on ...
