It is no longer news that hiking has many physical and emotional benefits. Even though millions of Americans and people worldwide know this, many do not see the importance of this kind of exercise. At a time when organizations are looking for ways to improve workplace productivity, develop leaders, and help employees work more efficiently, it is important to look beyond just the therapeutic benefits and discover how hikers are more likely to be successful.
1. They have lower stress levels
According to the president of the American Hiking society, “Being in nature is ingrained in our DNA, and we sometimes forget that.” People who hike are better able to deal with moods and are more positive, according to some studies. Hiking combats symptoms of stress and anxiety.
2. They have more endurance
Hiking has a way of testing our endurance and perseverance. If you are carrying a backpack while hiking, your body and mind are both challenged and improve their strength and endurance. Your body is pushed to its limits, and you are tested: will you turn back or keep going?
3. They are healthier
According to a study done by Austrian researchers, hiking accomplished in different ways has different influences on the fats and sugars in the bloodstream. Additionally, hiking provides you with your daily dose of Vitamin D, lowers your risk of dying from cancer, alleviates your sleep, prevents and controls diabetes, and increases your bone density.
4. They have more energy
Hiking is an aerobic activity. Such activities bring extra oxygen and fuel to your muscles and other body tissues. This strengthens your muscles and lungs and, at the same time, increases your agility and alertness.
5. They are more focused
Hiking improves your focus, which is an important element of success. While hiking, you are able to get away from the distractions of technology and day-to-day life that can crush your spirit and weigh you down. Hikers have fewer distractions as they walk through nature. Their minds are cleared and their cognitive ability is improved.
6. They are physically fit
One of the foremost benefits of hiking is the physical fitness attached to it. Success requires good health and physical fitness. Hiking keeps your weight under control and burns calories. At a slow pace of 2 miles per hour, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn approximately 240 calories per hour.
7. They are independent
Hiking comes with responsibility. You cannot rely on technology; in fact, you may not even be familiar with the territory. With a heightened sense of responsibility, the hiker is forced to be self sufficient and independent, resilient and tough.
8. They are more creative
According to this study, backpackers scored 50% higher on a creativity test after spending four days in the great outdoors. Nature has a way of relaxing the mind and increasing your attention span by allowing you to rest, leaving much-needed room for reflection.
9. They have an improved memory
Multitasking and regular day-to-day distractions have a way of impacting our brains negatively. Research shows that exposure to nature through hiking causes significant changes in the brain. Hiking lets you think more clearly, develop a greater focus and recall ability, and develops your cognitive skills.
10. They appreciate the simple things of life
For the hiker, it is not about the benefits or the rewards. Rather, it is about the experience of being close to nature, lost in a moment of discovery and adventuring to an unknown territory. This is what success means. And somewhere along this line, they value the simple provisions life has offered them.
Now that you know, will you take the extra effort and go on a hike?
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