Spring is the perfect time to start getting into the routine of being active outside! If you’ve exhausted your walks around the neighborhood and are sick of cardio in the gym, try soft hiking! Get out in nature and meet your fitness goals all at the same time. At Wisniewski Chiropractic, a chiropractor in West Omaha, NE, we’re here to help you stay dedicated to your health, whether it’s through pain prevention or treatment. Visit a chiropractor near you and improve your lifestyle today.
What is soft hiking?
If an intense 20-mile hike isn’t something you look forward to, then soft hiking might be the workout for you. This hiking trend was coined by the TikTokers Lucy and Emily of @softgirlswhohike. For those who want a more relaxed form of exercise while being able to observe nature, a soft hike is exactly what you need to include in your exercise routine. The best part about this trend is that there are no rules! Stop and look at what nature has to offer, have a snack or take your furry friend out for a quick stroll. It all counts as hiking no matter the difficulty.
Seasoned hikers typically aim to hike for a challenge and to do it in a specific amount of time. This form of hiking couldn’t be more different, the pace is determined by you and what you’re comfortable with.
Benefits
Improves cardiovascular health
Adding aerobic exercise to your fitness routine can be a good way to improve your cardiovascular health. Strenuous hiking can get your heart rate up, but partaking in a soft hike is a great way to increase your heart rate, lower blood pressure and improve your circulation. A hard workout isn’t required to see benefits in your cardiovascular health. Take it slow and see improvements over time!
Reduces stress
What better way to reduce stress than getting out and enjoying nature? Soft hikes allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature while also staying active and setting your own pace. During soft hikes, you can disconnect from the real world and clear your mind. On a strenuous hike, you might be worried about keeping up with others and racing to the top of a mountain. On a soft hike, there are no worries attached. Take a deep breath and enjoy yourself.
Improves mood
It’s shown that being out in nature can have positive impacts on your mood. Serotonin levels can increase and overall feelings of happiness are more present.
Strengthens muscles and bones
Mental benefits aren’t the only pros to soft hikes, there are also some physical benefits! After all this walking, muscles and bones are going to strengthen over time and you might not even know it. The uneven terrain of hiking can cause muscles and bones in your legs and feet to strengthen. Balance and stability can also improve and reduce the chances of falling.
Good for socialization
If you’re looking for a great activity to do with friends while also getting your steps in, consider a soft hike. You won’t be so out of breath that you can’t have a conversation and you can all take in the beauty of nature.
Chiropractor in West Omaha, NE
Finding the right form of exercise for you is key to living a healthy lifestyle. Schedule an appointment at a chiropractor in West Omaha and start your health and fitness journey today. Contact us today!
Leave Comment