The American Hiking Society lists many benefits to hiking. They state that hiking can stem heart disease, decrease hypertension by dilating blood vessels, decrease cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (the good cholesterol), decrease weight by burning calories, slow the aging process by "using it so you don't lose it," and prevent the ageing of the immune system. Hiking also improves osteoporosis by improving bone density; improves and maintains mental health by producing calming brain chemicals called endorphins, which are mild tranquilizers; and improves the air we breathe by replacing short car trips with non-polluting walking. The Association also claims that hiking can prevent and control diabetes by protecting the body from the degenerative effects of the disease; reduce the amount of insulin or oral agents needed; and in some cases, reverse the course of the disease through diet, exercise, and weight loss. Hiking is said to improve arthritis by strengthening leg muscles; and since natural tranquillizing endorphins are generated, hiking may relieve back pain. Hiking forms healthy habits for a healthy life. Now remember, these benefits come courtesy of the American Hiking Society, but they do mirror the U.S. Surgeon General's Report of Exercise of 1996.

 

The mental health benefits of hiking are well noted also.  Life can be hectic and stress can build up wearing away at your mental as well as physical strength.  Hiking is like taking a timeout from life. You have a couple hours to just walk along and relax.  The walking helps burn off the stress while the time gives you a chance to just think about what you want to think about.  Psychologist say that nearly every adult benefits from having a little “me” time when they are not being tugged this way and that by people, telephone calls and even email messages.  At the end of your hike, you will feel refreshed and have a new perspective on things.