Backpacking; a great way to exercise!
You know one of the best things about backpacking and hiking? It is a brilliant way to exercise and has other benefits too. Denise Mitten, editor of Hiking and Backpacking, believes not only does exercising in nature keeps you fit but also contributes to your well being. Sounds good, doesn’t it!
“Contact with nature is correlated with living longer, and actual biochemical changes occur in response to trees, plants, and animals,” Mitten says. “We experience long-term benefits from improving and maintaining physical fitness through hiking and backpacking, both on the trail and at home.”
For those that are new to hiking Mitten suggests building up a hiking routine using the following techniques:
“Contact with nature is correlated with living longer, and actual biochemical changes occur in response to trees, plants, and animals,” Mitten says. “We experience long-term benefits from improving and maintaining physical fitness through hiking and backpacking, both on the trail and at home.”
For those that are new to hiking Mitten suggests building up a hiking routine using the following techniques:
For those who are a bit more experienced, you’ll know all about the benefits already! For further information on Denise Mitten’s Hiking and Backpacking you can visit; www.HumanKinetics.com 4 years ago • 1 noteTo warm up for a hike, walk slowly for 3 to 5 minutes and lightly stretch for 2 to 5 minutes. The objective is to walk at a steady, unbroken pace. Start at a pace where you don’t get out of breath while carrying on a conversation. The pace will depend on fitness level, your load and the terrain. As you hike, regularly take long, deep breaths. This helps get oxygen to the muscles and prevents lactic acid buildup. With each mile per hour that you increase your speed, you double the amount of energy you expend. To cool down, lightly stretch for 5 to 10 minutes, focusing on the legs and ankles.
