Energy expenditure and number of calories burned hiking and trekking in the plains or mountains with or without a pack

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HIKING

Hiking is a real sport in its own right. The proof is in the eating: a 70 kg person who goes hiking for 5 hours without a rucksack will burn 2940 kcal, which gives you a real reason to go hiking.

You only have to look at the hikers who go on the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela or the various GR (Grande Randonnée) trails in France to see the difference in weight they gain after their journey.

Whether in mountains, forests, along coastlines or through valleys, hiking offers an enriching and revitalising experience, allowing walkers to connect with nature and discover new horizons.

Some benefits of hiking and trekking:

• Muscular strengthening: Hiking calls on many of the body’s muscles, particularly those of the legs, buttocks and back. When climbing, the calf and thigh muscles are particularly hard-working, which helps to strengthen and tone the muscles.
• Improving cardiovascular endurance: Hiking is an aerobic activity that stimulates the cardiovascular system and improves endurance. Sustained walking and continuous effort during the hike help to develop good cardiorespiratory capacity.
• Burn calories: Hiking is an excellent way to burn calories. Energy expenditure depends on a number of factors, such as the intensity of the walk, the terrain and the duration of the hike. This makes it an ideal activity for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting weight loss.
• Boosting mental health: Hiking in the great outdoors offers a soothing, relaxing experience. It allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life, recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature. Walking in the open air also encourages the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that give you a sense of happiness and satisfaction.
• Improved bone health: Regular walking helps to strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis. The pressure exerted on the bones during walking stimulates bone formation and promotes bone density.
• Interaction with the environment: Hiking allows you to discover varied landscapes, breathtaking panoramas, waterways and diverse flora and fauna. It’s a chance to disconnect from city life, connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of the environment.

In conclusion, hiking is an activity that’s accessible to everyone and beneficial for both body and mind. Whether it’s for the pleasure of discovery, the quest for a personal challenge, the desire to recharge your batteries or simply to enjoy nature, hiking is an excellent way to stay active, look after your health and enjoy unforgettable moments in the great outdoors.