Adding A Little Spice to Walking Equals Big Results
By Tom Herrin
Some people enjoy walking but want to find something that adds a little more challenge. They may find real fulfillment with their current routine but want to do something that can yield greater results. Maybe ordinary workout programs are not their thing. The enjoyment of walking can be enhanced greatly by adding just a few tweaks, a little weight and some varied terrain. The end product of these modifications can be backpacking. Contrary to popular belief, someone doesn’t have to be a survivalist to do it. It only requires simple equipment and a little planning.
Muscles Can Gain Considerable Strength
Many of the trails used by backpackers are filled with hills and valleys. The constant variety of going up and down provides enough strenuous exercise to build strength and endurance. This kind of activity can also help strengthen parts of the body that are many times difficult to work. Some of this tends to improve the core. As muscles are stressed, the bones can increase in density as well. Greater bone density translates into bones that are more resistant to injury from common trauma.
Weight Loss Could Be A Natural By-Product
Even though it may not be the primary objective, hiking up and down the trail carrying a backpack can burn calories at a higher rate than other walking exercises. This can facilitate weight loss provided the person follows a healthy diet. Since the activity also involves a pretty good amount of opportunity to increase heart rate and improve cardio in general, when combined with weight loss it can serve as a great way to live a healthier lifestyle.
Stress Relief Can Be The Real Winner
As stressful as the world is today, just about anybody could use some relief. Backpacking is a pretty good way to get a big dose of it. The outdoor feel alone, with the fresh air and natural settings, can clear the mind and lift the spirit. There is a connection with nature that can be found only in this type of activity. When this is combined with the physical challenges available, it becomes a great way to forget about daily troubles and focus on the task at hand. A person tends to be able to solve many of the everyday problems with a good backpacking trek. If you haven’t tried it, there is no time like now. There is little expense to start with, and it is not necessary to travel to some far away place to do it. Since you can set your own pace, there is no reason to overexert. Give it a try, and you may be hooked.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.