MamasHealth.com Home Hiking Information Benefits of Hiking Avoid Hiking Injuries Hiking Gear Guide Planning a Hike Links Email Mama Orange seared tofu Nutrition for Athletes Inexpensive Treadmills Fitness Accessories Sign up for the MamasHealth Newsletter	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. Hiking can be a great way to escape the monotony of the gym and get a heart-pumping workout. Benefits of Hiking There are many benefits of hiking. The most common benefits are: Weight loss. Decrease in blood pressure. Helps prevent osteoporosis by improving bone density. Relieves back pain. It doesn't cost much. Hiking Tips Wear comfortable shoes and socks to prevent your feet from blistering. Be careful when hiking up and down hills. Hiking up and down hills and mountains requires care, especially on slopes covered with loose gravel or loose dirt. Keep your knees bent and use side-stepping maneuvers when hiking on steep parts. Use a hiking stick or hiking poles. A hiking stick or even a pair of hiking poles will give you an extra stability. Take your time. When you ascend to higher elevations the air is thinner and has less oxygen. Be careful when crossing streams. Rocks and debris in the streams can be very slippery and hazardous. Bring your own water. Water running over rocks is not safe in most areas. The water may be contaminated with parasites or bacteria. If you plan to drink water from a stream, use a water filter or water purification tablets. Dress in layers. The weather can change dramatically. Dressing in layers will help ensure you maintain the proper body temperture. Do not leave your trash behind. Join a hiking group	Featured Book
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