What is Hiking? Hiking is merely walking on a foot path, whether on a neighborhood trail that runs along the river or a more adventurous trail to a mountain ridge. While many sports activities and games require special equipment or training to get started, hiking is relatively much simpler and more beneficial than any other exercise. Literally, anyone can put on a pair of shoes along with few necessary items and start moving into the woods for a little fresh air.This is the beauty of hiking. The scenery, accessibility and diverse nature of hiking trails in Los Angeles California make this heart-healthy pastime attractive for people of all ages, fitness levels and income brackets. Hiking (sometimes called trekking) doesn't really require any special expertise or skills.

 

For years, studies comparing exercise to physical and mental health consistently found that regular exercise increases a person's overall health and results in a longer life. Why, then, does only 15 percent of the U.S. adult population engage in sufficient moderate physical activity? Hiking can be a great way to escape the monotony of the gym and get a heart-pumping workout. A good workout can be a brisk 30-minute hike with the dog, or a slower one-hour hike through a local park. According to the American Heart Association, it’s best to walk vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes three or four times per week. But even low to moderate intensity walking can have both short and long term benefits. According to Walking for Health, people "won’t find a better way to lose weight than walking." The results will be more permanent and pleasurable than any diet or weight loss scheme. When hiking a comfortable 2-MPH, a person weighing 150 pounds will burn 240 calories in one hour.

 

There are many benefits of hiking. The most common benefits are:

Weight loss.
Can decrease blood pressure.
Can decrease cholesterol.
Helps prevent osteoporosis by improving bone density.
Low impact exercise.
It doesn't cost much.
Fun family activity.

 

The DVD and Trail Directions booklet includes all the information you need to decide the best day hikes for you. You’ll get the total distance of the suggested hike, the approximate time it will take to complete the hike, the elevation gain, overall difficulty and any restrictions of the area. Driving directions and local map are included to round out the hiking package.

 

 

Healty Habits for a Healthy Life: Another powerful reason to hike doesn't involve a specific disease or a single facet of life. Rather it is life. Each time you go outside and walk, as long as you stay within your capabilities, you will come home feeling better than you did when you left. Your body will feel better. Your head will feel clearer, and your stress level will have decreased. The result? You’ll want to hike again! As you notice improvements in your body and state of mind, you may also want to start eating healthy foods. With each hike you will feel better, which will encourage you to continue your new healthy habits. Don't believe it? Order the video, go for a hike, and see what we mean. Get started now!