Hiking has been linked with a lower incidence of cancer cases.
For many expats across the globe, the new year means resolutions to get into shape and adopt a healthy lifestyle. The gym may seem like the obvious choice, but it can be expensive and committing to go a certain number of times a week is difficult.
How about an alternative solution? Take a hike! If you’re not convinced, let me tell you why you should reconsider:
- It lowers your blood sugar – Hiking has been linked with a lower level of sugar in blood and it also lowers your risk of heart disease. Being overweight brings about risks of type-2 diabetes and potentially, cancer. Walking a mile a day, instead, cuts cancer risks by 40%.
- It makes you stronger – That’s right! Hiking improves your stamina, strength and endurance. Also it develops several muscle groups, in particular glutes, calves and quadriceps. Longer trips require backpacks, and carrying one one along while you stroll across uncontaminated fields makes your back and shoulder more resistant. According to many, hiking is also healthier than jogging: running can wear out your joints, and especially if you feel like you should lose body fat more than acquiring mass, it is not particularly recommended.
- It can be a great family activity – Bringing kids along on a hike can make them healthy and happier: hiking during one’s childhood can improve bone health and lower their risk of depression. If you have a family, spending some quality time together can improve relationships between each other.
- It boosts your mood! It is true: hiking is linked with a lower incidence of insomnia, mood swings and other mental disturbs. The benefits come from physical activity, although it has also been argued that unplugging from technology has its perks too!
- Settling down in a new place? If you just moved to a new place, hiking might also a spur you on to discover your new home, locate the most suitable spots and leave behind the stress of the city for a while!
So buy a nice pair of boots, break them in and become a bona fide hiker: it will be the best decision you’ll make in 2016, we promise!
[Image by Francisco Figueroa]