Hiking, also known as trekking, is defined as a physical activity that primarily involves walking, which can last from a few minutes to days at a time.
What is aerobic metabolism for energy production?
Aerobic metabolism is the body's system that produces energy using fats and carbohydrates through metabolic processes that require oxygen.
This process leads to the formation of ATP, a high-energy molecule, which is essential during physical activity such as hiking.
Aerobic metabolism is predominant in hiking and other forms of aerobic exercise, allowing for sustained efforts.
What physical benefits does hiking bring?
Regular trekking brings numerous benefits to the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Hiking mainly involves the lower limbs, but also muscles, such as the abdominals and lumbar paravertebrals, as well as the upper limbs and back muscles.
Using poles while hiking increases the number of support points, improving stability and safety, and allows for better distribution of loads on the body, especially on the spine.
What favorable conditions come from hiking?
Hiking helps to achieve an ideal body weight, strengthens the muscles of the lower limbs, core and upper limbs. It also helps to prevent metabolic syndrome, maintain proper blood sugar levels and normalize lipid metabolism, including cholesterol and triglycerides.
Finally, it improves the efficiency of the heart and vascular system, as well as gas exchange at the pulmonary level and respiratory mechanics.
How to prepare for hiking?
Before you start hiking, it is advisable to undergo a medical examination to assess your physical fitness. It is also important to adapt your hikes to your current fitness level and monitor your effort with a heart rate monitor.
Proper hydration is essential, as is energy management through energy bars and gels. It is essential to wear appropriate clothing and shoes that offer good support and stability during excursions. Finally, dressing in layers allows you to easily adapt to changes in temperature, while sunglasses and sunscreen protect your eyes and skin.
Hiking is an activity that offers numerous health benefits, helping to improve physical and mental well-being. Through regular and conscious practice, you can obtain various benefits for your body and mind.
Source: CAI
