Some people don’t enjoy the gym, maybe it is the busy machines, the hustle and bustle, the pushy and harsh trainers, or the price. No matter, the reason, there are lots of other ways to get and stay healthy that extend outside the four walls of your local gym. Remember, however, that before embarking on new, intense or any physical activity, it is a good idea to consult with a physician. To do so, you can click here you There are many reasons you should take up hiking or walking, some of which include:

• Calorie blasting; just an hour of hiking will have you burning at least 500 calories. The actual amount of calories depends on the trail, the incline, the weight you carry and the speed you go at.
• Better on joints; running on asphalt, concrete or even a treadmill can be hard on your joints, especially your knees. Hiking is much softer on your joints including knees and ankles.
• You are in control; the beauty of hiking is that you control when you go, where you go and how long you go for. Don’t worry about busy gyms or a trainer pressuring you. You are the master of your own destiny with hiking.
• Forget leg day! Hiking is a full body work out. It has proven to be great for glutes, calves, arms and even abs. Engaging different muscle groups at different times helps make this a full body fat blasting workout. You can go one step further and challenge your upper body even more by adding a backpack or some type of weight to your upper half.
• Heart control; the fresh air, a good pace walking can help lower your risk of issues with cardiovascular systems. This includes lowered risk of heart attack, heart disease, etc.
• Diabetes control; walking promotes the movement of glucose through your whole body which helps those with diabetes control and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Recovery; hiking can do more than help you get fit, it can help you get better! There are an increasing amount of studies that are showing hiking may help those who are recovering from anything from a cold to cancer treatments in their recovery and road to health
• Socialization; the benefits of spending time with others outdoors extend beyond physical benefits and are a great way to give your mind a break and a rest as well. The time spent with others allows you time to unwind and is proven to improve your psychological state.
• One with nature; being in nature, even without other people, has proven to have immense mental health benefits. It is calming and can help ease anxiety, improve symptoms and side effects of depression and just increase overall happiness and satisfaction.