A good hobby is a mixture of accessibility, affordability, and its impact on our wellbeing. There are only so many activities that meet this trifecta—luckily, we’ve got just the suggestion for you. Here are four of the reasons why hiking is the best hobby to get into.
You Can Do It Anywhere in the World
From northern Norway to the Amazonian jungles, hiking has been around since the beginning of time. Wherever you travel, either for a work trip or a vacation, there will always be places to walk around outside.
As long as you’re dressed appropriately for the weather, you’ll be on your way to having a great time.
Sunshine, Fresh Air, & Good Exercise
You could be the biggest hermit in the world, but your body and mind would still benefit from walking outdoors. Sun, nature’s breeze, and stretching our legs all keep us in excellent physical shape (not the bodybuilder type, but the strong-immune-system kind).
Regular and prolonged sunshine is terrific for improving our moods, fighting off viruses and microbes, and relieving stress.
Versatile Depending on Your Fitness Level
As long as you’re comfortable walking, you can continue to adapt the hike to your needs. If you are in need of strenuous activity, then go on a longer trail or find one with more elevation gain.
When a relaxing afternoon feels more suiting, then skip the gnarly nine-mile loop for something a little bit more peaceful. There are options for both experienced and beginner hikers.
It’s Free(ish)
With a caveat that some trails do require a fee to enter or park, hiking is generally a very affordable hobby. As you need is a good pair of walking shoes, sun protection, a water bottle, and maybe a backpack.
You don’t need a pair of fancy hiking boots; just your usual sneakers will do. Hiking can be as minimalist or luxurious that you want it to be.
With all these reasons why hiking is the best hobby to get into, there’s no excuse not to start this week. Start with a walk around a nearby park or find a trailhead you can visit on your next day off.
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