bransonglobe.com Oct. 14 - 15, 2020 • 17
Missouri Dept. of Conservation: Hiking is great for health and happiness
By Peg Craft, Missouri Dept. of Conservation A walk around the block has its benefits, but if you really want to ramp up your health and happiness, try hiking. From out your door down to your core, research shows multiple benefits for mind and body. With cooling temps and changing colors, fall is a great time to hit the trails. Besides enjoying nature’s surround sounds, fresh scents, and colors, you can boost your brain power and creative thinking. Whether trail running or walking, the physical benefits of hiking are wide-ranging. The uneven terrain
of paths that wind up, down, and sideways, work a variety muscle groups and help with overall balance--boosting the energy you use by 28 percent compared to walking on flat surfaces (Time Magazine). Hikers report benefits like weight loss, stress relief, better sleep, and more positive thoughts. New hikers can start out slow and build up with a variety of trails and scenery from short walks to more moderate hikes. For safety and company, you can take a buddy or join a hiking club. Be prepared and stay hydrated to enjoy healthy and happy trails. Care should be taken on variable terrain to avoid inju-
Hiking is good for body, mind and spirit. (MDC photo)
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ries. There are several smooth surfaced trails as well. It’s important to be prepared before going hiking. These tips from the American Hiking Society are sure to help. • Wear appropriate footwear. Con-
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sider shoes or boots with traction, support and protection. Consider bringing a paper map and compass as a backup to your phone and GPS unit. Stay hydrated! Plan for a half
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liter of water per hour in moderate temperatures/terrain. Bring calorie-dense foods for a hike snack. Be sure to bring along a first aid kit.
