Hiking during the summer is a fantastic way to enhance your health and fitness, both physically and mentally. Based in Southern California, our team at Sunny enjoys great hiking weather year-round, but summer is especially ideal for hitting the trails. Not only does hiking allow you to spend more time outdoors—essential for a healthy mind and body—but it also improves your overall fitness and wellness. What’s not to love about that? Here are six compelling reasons to consider adding hiking to your summer workout routine!

Safety First

Before you set out on your hiking adventure, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. While this list isn’t exhaustive, here are some key precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Bring Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, particularly on longer treks without accessible water stations. A good rule of thumb is to drink about half a liter of water per hour of moderate activity, adjusting for longer or more intense hikes and higher temperatures.
• Bring Snacks: Food fuels your body during a hike, so pack snacks rich in carbohydrates and protein. Options like trail mix, nuts, and protein bars are excellent choices to keep your energy up.
• Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with your hiking route, including any potential wildlife, plants, or weather conditions you might encounter.
• Tell Someone Where You Are Going: Always inform a friend or family member about your hiking plans and expected return time. In case of emergencies, they can provide your location to rescuers.

6 Reasons to Add Hiking to Your Summer Workout Program

1. Mix Up Your Workout Routine
   If your exercise program feels repetitive, a hike can add excitement and variety. Unlike traditional workouts, hiking can feel more like an adventure than a chore, giving you a much-needed mental boost.
2. Boost Cardiovascular Health
   If you’re not a fan of traditional cardio, hiking might just change your mind! Many trails feature mild inclines, which can elevate your heart rate effectively. Sustained hikes contribute to achieving the American Heart Association’s recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, helping you reach your heart health goals.
3. Build Muscular Strength
   Hiking on inclines or uneven terrain builds muscular stability and strength in your legs and glutes. While resistance training is essential, hiking can be a great supplement to your weightlifting routine.
4. Decrease Stress and Improve Mental Health
   Research shows that spending time in nature significantly improves mental health, reducing stress levels and physiological markers like blood pressure and cortisol. Hiking not only boosts physical health but also serves as a powerful tool for enhancing mental well-being.
5. Connect with Your Hiking Buddies
   Hiking is a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family. Get your heart rates up while enjoying the company of loved ones and creating lasting memories.
6. Get Your Dose of Vitamin D
   Vitamin D is vital for bone, muscle, nerve, and immune system health. While a well-rounded diet is essential, sun exposure is another way to boost your Vitamin D levels. Hiking during sunny summer months helps ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient.

The Final Push

Hiking in the summer offers a fun and effective way to enhance your physical and mental health. Enjoy a cardiovascular workout, build leg strength, and soak up some Vitamin D while spending quality time with friends and family. This summer activity truly does it all! Stay safe, follow the tips provided, and savor your time on the trail. Happy hiking!