If getting fit is your New Year’s resolution goal for 2024, you should consider trekking to the outdoors the next time you want to break a sweat. In fact, hiking should be your top 2024 fitness goal.
According to Atlanta-based health care system Piedmont, hiking is a great form of exercise that is awesome for your entire body.
“When you’re dressed for success, hiking is a great total-body workout,” Michael Bednarz, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatric surgeon at Piedmont, told the health care system. “It strengthens the large muscles in your body, while stimulating the feel-good chemical hormones of adrenaline and endorphins that boost your mood and energy levels.”
Hiking is a cardio workout, making it ideal for reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and even cancer. It also builds muscle mass and prevents osteoporosis. And the benefits don’t end there.
“It is a joint-friendly form of exercise that can keep arthritis sufferers more limber and mobile,” Piedmont reported. “Being outside in the sunshine provides the body with vitamin D. For those with type 2 diabetes, hiking can possibly reduce, or even eliminate, your need for insulin. Talk with your doctor about how exercise may reduce your need for medication. Hiking offers psychological benefits, often contributing to a feeling of relaxation and enhanced well-being.”
Some of Georgia’s best hiking trails can be found at Tallulah Gorge, a spectacular canyon with unforgettable views that are sure to boost those good-mood endorphins during your workout. Of course, Georgia is home to a number of wonderful hiking hotspots, including those found at Helen’s Smithgall Woods State Park and Kennesaw’s Kennesaw Mountain.
Wherever you decide to hike this year, make sure you do so safely. According to Dr. Bednarz, some people should consult their physician before hitting the trails.
“If you have any type of hypertension or heart disease, be sure to consult your doctor before hiking,” Dr. Bednarz said. “Even if you are healthy, climbing vertically can be a whole new ballgame. You use very different muscles than you do on flat surfaces, so be sure to stretch and listen to your body’s limits.”
