Intelligence Boost
A recent study has found that frequent hikes as a form of exercise serves to help stimulate and increase an individual’s problem-solving capabilities by about 50% immediately after completion of a hike. With the loud hustle and bustle of city life, as well as everyday technologies acting a source of constant distraction, hiking offers a wonderful reprieve from the distractions of modern day life, which allows for clearer and better thinking.
A Strong Immune System
Obviously, hiking as a form of exercise presents obvious physical benefits to a person’s health. But a study conducted in Japan has found that hiking also drastically improves the strength of a person’s immune system. The study also found that this boost in one’s immune system strength is also linked to an increased production of anti-cancer proteins. It seems that hiking is another simple and free way to prevent cancer!
Decrease in ADHD & Depression
You don’t have to be a regular outdoorsman to appreciate the health benefits of hiking. A study conducted by Frances E. Kup and Andrea F. Taylor contrasted two separate groups, one which walked through a city environment and one that took a hike through nature. They found that a simple 90-minute hike outdoors significantly decreased the likelihood of developing mental illnesses such as ADHD and depression. The group who walked through the city did not experience any improvements. This is all the more reason to find an opportunity to get away from the city every now and then.
Alzheimer’s Prevention
As mentioned before, hiking has been found to improve cognitive abilities. In addition to this, a study conducted at the University of British Columbia found that hiking as a regular form of exercise could actually prevent early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Hiking stimulates the same part of the brain that regulates long-term memory, and researchers believe that there is a strong correlation that the participation in hiking will help in the long run.
Reduced Blood Pressure
Any form of exercise in and of itself can help to reduce blood pressure and stress levels. The release of endorphins can help the body to better regulate itself, resulting in better metabolism rates and blood sugar levels. Not to mention being one with nature can help one destress, which only serves to further reduce overall blood pressure.
While it’s understandable that many people have very busy lives and schedules, it’s important to remember that hiking is an incredibly cheap and easy activity to partake in. Strap on a good pair of shoes, grab a few friends and family and hit the nature trails to not only appreciate the world around you but receive the numerous health benefits that hiking has to offer.
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