Once you get into shape, hiking will also keep you that way. A study conducted at Baylor University in Texas found that people who dieted without exercising lost weight quickly, but gained most or all of it back within two years. People who started walking regularly, but did not diet, took longer to start shedding pounds, but two years later, had either maintained the weight loss or were still losing. And keeping in shape may ultimately help you live longer. The results of 43 separate studies by the Center for Disease Control show that regular exercise significantly reduces the chance of heart problems.
Regular exercise can also lower blood pressure.
More specifically, walking dilates blood vessels and reduces the high insulin levels that produce high blood pressure. Other health benefits include lower cholesterol levels, stronger immune systems, increased bone density, and relief from arthritis and back pains. Furthermore, regular hiking will result in a healthier mental state byreducing depression, stress and anxiety andinstillingan enhanced sense of well-being. So, the next time you're planning to get away for awhile, instead of spending a lot of money at a fancy spa or private resort, consider a hiking vacation. D.C. Dedicated to promoting hiking and to establishing, protecting and maintaining foot trails in America, American Hiking has over 100 affiliated trail clubs and represents half a million outdoors people by serving as the voice of the American hiker.