Maintenance of muscle function, strengthening of the immune defence, increased creativity… Hiking offers a number of benefits, both physical and physiological.
Whether in the mountains, in the countryside or in the forest, hiking has a multitude of benefits for the body. “First, it has an influence on muscle function because, unlike fast activities where you gain weight, it gently solicits the deep muscles”explains Faïza Bossy, general practitioner.
Not only does hiking maintain muscle function, but it has a positive influence on the skeleton and joints. “It is a physical activity that is recommended for people who suffer from osteoporosis, for examplespecifies the health professional. Contrary to popular belief, it does not trigger osteoarthritis: it reduces pain and stimulates bone production.”
Go hiking to boost your creativity
Another beneficial effect: the intensive practice of walking in nature strengthens the immune defense – a point not to be overlooked at this time, with Covid-19. “It has been shown that the immune system of older people who hike tends to increasecontinues Faïza Bossy. They make all their cells work and increase their cardiac activity, therefore their oxygen supply: as the cells are oxygenated, the immune system is improved.”
Moreover, as the doctor recalls, many distinguished scientists and philosophers were known to walk. “It oxygenates the brain, it increases cognitive functions and, above all, creativityassures the health professional. The fact that the brain is better oxygenated contributes to its proper functioning and even helps to recover after injuries.”
“Walking decreases the risk of developing a form of diabetes by almost 60%”
The benefits of hiking don’t stop there. It also participates in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. “Walking reduces the risk of developing a form of diabetes by almost 60%, as well as anxiety and depressiondevelops Faïza Bossy, specifying that it is the third risk factor for infarction. Cholesterol and fat drop, then hiking also has an effect on blood pressure.”
At the same time, walking increases respiratory capacity by promoting inspiration and breathing. “For respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma, going for a walk in a place adapted to your natural condition is very positive”, assures the doctor. Moreover, if hiking does not make you lose weight, it replaces fat with muscle.
Affects the development of breast and colon cancer
Finally, walking would have an influence on several types of cancer. “In 2010, a team of French researchers showed that hiking would reduce the risk of developing colon cancer., relates Faïza Bossy. The reason: when you adopt a sedentary position and don’t walk, digestion and elimination of waste are less effective. “Anything left as waste in the colon ferments, and is a risk factor for developing a polyp or colon cancer.” continues the health professional.
Another cancer on which hiking has an impact is that of the breast. “From the moment you walk, you tighten the muscle behind the chest, which allows for better support and less risk”, says the doctor. One downside, however: women with large breasts are not affected by this phenomenon.
Finally, apart from its physiological benefits, Faïza Bossy recommends hiking as a physical activity for children and adolescents. “It’s a way for the family to be togethershe believes. Then, we are not in competition, in an aggressive environment. From a psychological and physical point of view, walking in nature has benefits for the growth of young people.”
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