Hiking is often used as a synonym for hiking.
The term hiking is not part of the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ). It is an English word that refers to a walk in a wild environment , usually following a trail .
According to the Urgent Spanish Foundation – Fundéu BBVA , in our language it is preferable to use the notion of hiking to refer to this type of recreational activity. In any case, many media outlets and tourism agencies choose to use the English concept.
What is hiking
Hiking or trekking, in short, consists of a long walk that is taken on foot in a mountain , a forest , a jungle , a field or other natural space. Although there are different degrees of difficulty, the activity usually requires some physical effort.
Another similar idea is trekking . In this case, the walk is always extensive and with certain challenges. But, sometimes, hiking, hiking, trekking and even backpacking are used interchangeably.
Many regions have hiking among their tourist attractions, with trails designed in their most beautiful natural places. Thus, those who practice hiking can get to know the local nature and enjoy the outdoors. Hiking can also allow you to reach sites of cultural or historical interest.
Hiking takes place in rugged areas.
Health benefits
For some time now, more and more people are encouraged to practice hiking or trekking in their free time. That's because this type of activity is considered to be really beneficial for health. Specifically, it brings with it advantages such as the following:
– Helps improve mood.
– Gets the individual in question “charged” with energy.
– No less significant is that it is very useful for improving self-esteem, since the person themselves feels very proud and satisfied with themselves when they manage to completely complete the established route or path.
– It is a great exercise to burn calories.
– In the same way, it must be taken into account that it is considered to help improve the ability to concentrate.
– Likewise, another advantage of hiking is that it can improve personal relationships and acquire social skills. This occurs when the individual in question decides to start practicing this activity with specialized hiking groups.
How to get started in hiking
Those who wish to start hiking must follow a series of important recommendations. We are referring to tips such as starting little by little, doing easy routes and as you gain experience, increasing their difficulty, or always carrying water, food, a charged cell phone and a small first aid kit. Likewise, at all times it is advisable to always go hiking in company in case something unforeseen arises or you suffer a fall or sprain .
Although everything depends on the geographical and climatic characteristics of the area where the hiking takes place, the ideal is for the traveler to wear sports shoes, comfortable clothing and sun protection.
Patagonia , in southern Argentina and Chile , is one of the most popular regions for hiking. Every year thousands of people choose to hike through Patagonian mountains, valleys and glaciers that stand out for their landscapes.