HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Hiking can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, and you can take part without any fees or the cost of a gym membership.
If you are looking for a way to enjoy nature and a little sunshine this season, the Land Trust of North Alabama maintains more than a hundred miles of public trails.
“They are all natural tread trails, which means they are either dirt or a little gravel, and that is fantastic for your joints,” said Land Trust of North Alabama Development Director Hallie Porter. “It’s a lot easier on you than walking on asphalt or concrete.”
Whether you have experience or are looking for a new healthy hobby, you should be able to find a spot suited to your needs.
“Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve is a great example,” Porter said. “We’ve got beginner trails that have no elevation change, wider trails. They’re a little bit more welcoming, and people who are not as experienced with the outdoors feel a little more comfortable. The same preserve has trails with good elevation change, and you can go straight up to the top of the mountain.”
Once you have chosen a trail, take the hike at your own pace.
Dr. Kourtney Dunn, a family medicine specialist with Crestwood Medical Group, said hiking can improve your cardiovascular health and build strength. While beneficial to everyone, it can be particularly important for older adults.
“You’re working against gravity,” Dunn said. “It’s more dynamic than just working on a flat surface, and that in turn will help you with joint space issues or bone loss issues.”
If you are facing a chronic health condition, your doctor may recommend hiking as a way to help manage the condition.
“Hiking can reduce diabetic problems, including increasing insulin sensitivity as well as regulate sugars,” said Dr. Hoa Nguyen. “It can also lower high blood pressure.”
Spending time walking a trail can support more than physical health.
Dr. Hoa Nguyen with Crestwood Medical Group said hiking increases blood flow to your brain and releases endorphins, also known as happy hormones. She said it can also decrease stress hormones like cortisol.
“Exercise and hiking are powerful natural medicines because it helps with a lot of things, such as boosting your self-esteem, reducing your stress levels and helping with your sleep cycle,” Nguyen said.
While out hiking a trail, Dr. Alex Flugrad said it is important to take steps to make sure you are staying safe. He said hikers should make sure they are drinking water. He recommended putting on at least SPF 30 before heading out and choosing shoes that provide support.
“A lot of people I see hiking, they have sandals, flip flops, and one of the biggest visits to the emergency room for hikers are road angles,” Flugrad said.
Once the hike is over, Flugrad said you should check for ticks. If you find any, he said to remove them completely and contact your doctor with any concerns.
Trails maintained by the Land Trust of North Alabama are open every day from dawn until dusk. Throughout the spring, the Land Trust hosts a variety of guided hikes, offering an opportunity to explore nature with a knowledgeable guide.
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