It is hard to imagine a family activity more wholesome than hiking. Exploring the outdoors helps in boosting both mental and physical health. It calms the stress levels and promotes creativity to a good extent. Hiking can be especially a great family activity for people like Harvey Shapiro Boston, whole loves to hike, as well as spend quality time his three sons, daughters-in-law, and two grandsons. Regular exercise has been proven to be an integral part of a healthy lifestyle, and is important for people of all ages. Due to the many advantages of hiking, it can be a great activity to take part in by the whole family.
With age, many people find it difficult to find a suitable exercise routine that adequately meets their physical capabilities. Hiking is among the best fun and active outdoor activities that people of all ages can turn to, as it can be easily tailored to their ability level and needs. Older individuals can choose to hike alone, with their family or even friends. Hiking alone can be a relaxing and exhilarating experience in many ways. However, it also is good to have a companion on the trails.
Making hiking a family activity additionally can be a great way to spend time with them in an enjoyable manner. In many families, people of varied ages do not have enough common topics or activities to bond over. But hiking is something that is enjoyed by each and every person, right from young kids to older individuals.
Walking is a tremendously good activity for middle aged and older individuals. It is simple, cheap, and almost any person can engage in it. Hiking is pretty helpful in maintaining mobility and independence among senior citizens as well. It is great to get to the outdoors and engage in a physical activity that is gentler on the joints as hiking trails are much softer in comparison to asphalt or concrete.
The health benefits of going on hikes include:
- Reduced risks of arthritis, joint, and knee pain
- Stronger muscles
- Decrease in feelings of depression and isolation
- Increased cognitive function
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Improved circulation
- Improved reaction time
- Increase in bone density, which helps in improving bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis
Older people hiking for the first time should start with a short and flat trail. Once they manage to gain a certain level of comfort on that trail, they can choose to increase the length and intensity of the trail e gradually over time. One can always explore the web to find the right trails for first time hikers.
Staying fit and active must be the priority of all people, no matter their age or background. Harvey Shapiro Boston himself practices Iyengar yoga and enjoys basketball, in addition to hiking. All of these are enjoyable activities that contribute to good health and wellness. Harvey Shapiro currently is a Clinical Professor at Northeastern University.