Hiking Makes You Happier & Healthier – Backed By Science
Ready to swap your couch for a trail?
Hiking isn’t just about enjoying nature, it’s like a magical potion for your mind and body! From boosting creativity and burning calories to healing and enhancing happiness, the benefits of hitting the trails are endless. So, grab your snacks and lace up those boots – let’s explore how trekking can transform your life and make you feel like a rockstar!
Hikers Are Creative
Looking for a natural way to boost your brainpower? You might want to lace up your hiking boots!
Studies have shown that hiking outdoors can enhance your attention span and creative problem-solving skills by as much as 50%. This boost isn’t just about being in nature, it’s also about unplugging from technology.
David Strayer, a co-author of the study, emphasises that interacting with nature offers real benefits for creativity. And guess what? Researchers from Stanford University found that walking, especially on a beautiful trail, stimulates your creativity far more than just sitting in one place. So, get out there and let the ideas flow!
Hikers Are Crushing Calories While Protecting Their Joints
Did you know that hitting the trails not only works out your mind but also provides an incredible workout for your body?
Just one hour of hiking can burn over 500 calories, depending on the incline and the weight of your pack! The best part? Hiking is a fantastic workout that’s easy on your joints! Hiking trails are generally softer on your joints compared to hard surfaces like asphalt. This means you might feel less stiff and creaky after a hike than after a jog on the sidewalk.
And if you venture uphill, you’ll be happy to know that weight loss results can be even more impressive. Not only are you burning calories, but the altitude can also assist in weight loss.
So, get out there and enjoy the hike while reaping all these health benefits!
Curious about the benefits of RUCKING (hiking with a heavy backpack)? CLICK HERE.
Hiking Heals
Did you know that the benefits of hiking go beyond just getting in shape? Regular hiking can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and strokes. Plus, don’t worry if you’re not panting on the way back down, both uphill and downhill hiking offer benefits, but descending is actually twice as effective at removing blood sugars and improving glucose tolerance.
Some research indicates that hiking can even aid in the recovery of cancer patients. A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine examined the oxidative stress levels-linked to cancer onset and progression-of women with breast cancer and men with prostate cancer before and after hiking. The findings revealed that long distance hiking trips may enhance the anti-oxidative capacity in the blood, helping to combat disease in these patients.
Additionally, another study found that breast cancer survivors who exercised regularly-many through hiking-felt that their physical activity played a vital role in their recovery from cancer treatment. So, if you’re looking for a way to support your health and well-being, hitting the trails might just be the remedy you need!
Hikers Are Happier
Are you looking for a natural boost to your mood? Research indicates that hiking can be a powerful therapy for those dealing with severe depression, helping individuals feel less hopeless, depressed, and even suicidal. It can also inspire a more active lifestyle for those who are struggling.
But even if you don’t suffer from depression, the mental benefits of hiking are significant. Being in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and technology, allows people to connect with themselves and the natural world. This connection fosters a sense of peace and well-being that can enhance your overall happiness.
So, why not hit the trails and experience this joy for yourself?
HAVE YOU BOOKED FOR ONE OF OUR HIKING ADVENTURES IN 2025?
Why not join us on our hikes this year? With stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences, these hikes are the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature. With epic landscapes and memories that will have you grinning from ear to ear, our hikes are the ultimate way to boost your mood, and torch some calories.
But hurry – these hikes are hotter than a fresh cup of coffee on a winter morning, and spots are vanishing fast!
Only two spots open for the 3 Day Kruger Safari Hike 16 – 19 April’25.
Only 4 spots open for the 4 Day Cape Town Walk 10 – 14 March’25
Only 4 spots open for our 6 Day Italian Lakes Walk 20 – 26 June’25
New date for our 4 Day Wild Coast Hike 👉🏼 22 – 26 October’25
