Hiking is a low impact exercise that’s invigorating. It helps strengthen muscles, the heart and lungs, and builds stamina and endurance.Walking certainly is necessary, especially at a time of high obesity in the United States – but why limit yourself to walking alone on a treadmill inside a building when you could be with your family breathing in fresh mountain air or feeling the breeze off an ocean through your hair? The faster you go on the trail adds an aerobic element to the workout, allowing you to tone muscle.
Kids have a lot of energy. Give them an interesting place where they can run it off, and you’ve made for a fun day. At the very least, running around in the fresh air is a guaranteed good night’s sleep.
Read more about day hiking with children in the guidebook Hikes with Tykes.
