Hiking - THE HEALTH BENEFITS
Physical
Walking regularly in combination with a good diet is one if the best ways of controlling weight.
It also reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and strokes and helps reduce blood pressure.
Walking also helps improve flexibility and strength of joints, muscles and bones, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Mental Health
Walking may be more powerful than we realise. It helps us cope at work by helping de-stress amongst nature, it 'heals' our brains, helps us concentrate, makes us more creative and can help treat depression
- Walking, like other physical activities, releases endorphins which improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety
- Feeling fitter and controlling weight helps improve your body image and confidence
- Active people have a reduced risk of suffering clinical depression
- Walking in a group is a sociable activity that can help improve mental health and overcome feelings of isolation
- Spending time in the outdoors and in contact with the natural environment – for example by walking in parks, woodland and green spaces – can have a positive effect on mental health
