There are, worldwide, hiking routes that invite you to explore and discover valleys, mountains, forests and jungles, for example.
Hiking is a concept inspired by the idea of a trail that is used to identify a sporting practice chosen, worldwide and during all times of the year, by men and women of different ages and nationalities. Basically, this word refers to the walks that are carried out through different outdoor territories, adjusting to a previously defined itinerary.
This activity , which encompasses multiple modalities and was developed between the 18th and 19th centuries in nations such as Switzerland and Germany and then expanded beyond the borders, encourages retracing paths that reveal riches in terms of fauna and flora and invites appreciate up close amazing landscapes capable of impacting and moving with their beauty .
As there are more and more people interested in finding out which and how the most recommended hiking routes are, knowing what benefits this proposal provides or what elements are required to guarantee the comfort and safety of adventurers who lend themselves to this type of journey, For example, below we will provide information of interest about basic equipment , hiking classes and the benefits of this dynamic.
Types of hiking
On an international scale, a wide variety of ways to go hiking are made available to the population. The categories are framed by criteria that consider the final purpose of each journey, the style or type of organization and the distance or duration of the itinerary .
Those who have experience in this type of walks and prefer to organize an excursion on their own that adjusts to individual preferences and pace, for example, have the chance to opt for autonomous hiking , gaining through it a personalized and flexible.
Likewise, both long- and short-distance hiking , recreational-tourist hiking , non-sporting hiking with an interpretative nature and sports hiking are recognized.
Basic kit
A basic kit for hiking should include key elements for orientation , survival and the maximum possible well-being throughout the entire expedition .
First of all, it is advisable to have basic knowledge about this practice. The backpack designed for trekking or hiking cannot be missing for anyone preparing for a walk lasting several hours or entire days. In it there must be space for clothing according to the meteorological scenario and clothes that allow you to cope with a sudden change in the prevailing conditions, food ( dehydrated food is ideal), a multipurpose knife , a flashlight , a canteen , a compass , a pair of binoculars and a GPS .
Hiking contributes to mental health and also provides well-being on a physical level.
In addition, you should always have insect repellent , sunscreen , a cap or hat , and sunglasses with UV protection . If the journey will be long or of a certain complexity, on the other hand, it is suggested to take with you a thermal blanket , a camping kitchen utensil kit , hiking gloves and boots , a portable heater and an emergency whistle , for example.
It is essential, without exception, to face the hiking adventure with appropriate clothing , comfortable shoes , maps and a first aid kit among your belongings.
Before starting the getaway, you must plan the departure well (evaluating your own physical condition, the level of difficulty posed by the chosen route, the weather forecast, estimated times for the start and end of the journey ) and get advice about the terrain through which they will travel and what are the most common risks to which those who carry out this type of activities are exposed.
It is very important, in this framework, to be clear about how to act in case of an unforeseen event or emergency .
Benefits of hiking
Hiking , whether it takes place in a nature reserve , a national park or other interesting territories to explore, provides an enormous amount of benefits .
By enabling a deep connection with nature , this activity contributes to relaxation , transmits calm and promotes a significant reduction in levels of anxiety , depression and/or stress .
Concentrating on a huge panoramic view or investing time in bird watching while resting at a viewpoint are actions that favor mental health because they allow you to renew your energy and feel whole .
It is very important, before and after hiking, to prepare, care for and protect your feet (with appropriate footwear and preventive measures to minimize the risk of damage or discomfort) so that they can withstand extensive walks and at the end of the activity they can recover without major problems. difficulties.
On a physical level, exercise allows you to strengthen muscles, maintain an adequate body weight and, by being on the move (along with the adoption of healthy habits ), you can minimize the chances of developing certain diseases . In this context, one cannot fail to recognize that blood circulation , blood pressure and glucose , for example, can be kept under control thanks to frequent hiking .
Those who explore outdoor spaces with commitment and awareness even cultivate a respectful type of hiking that leads them to value, love and try to protect biodiversity with behaviors in line with the principles of sustainability and the care of each ecosystem .