Hiking benefits for women over 50

Collaborative Post | In recent years, the United Kingdom has seen a resurgence in the popularity of hiking, with many people ditching the treadmills and heading outside to get their 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.  Interestingly, the demographic showing the highest inclination towards hiking includes those aged 55 and above, indicating a particular appeal of hiking among older populations​​.

Yet for women over 50, hiking is not just a form of physical exercise - it's a gateway to numerous benefits that enhance overall quality of life. If you’re not sure whether hiking is for you here are just a few of the mental, cognitive and social benefits that might convince you otherwise.

Photo by Holly Mandarich on Unsplash

What are the benefits of hiking for women over 50

Better mental health
​Hiking is excellent for mental health. As hikes are outside in nature, they’ve been proven to significantly reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The rhythmic, meditative nature of walking, combined with the tranquil outdoor setting, offers a perfect environment for mindfulness and relaxation. For women over 50 Women over 50, venturing into hiking provides an escape from the stressors of daily life, meaning it can promote mental well-being and emotional balance.

Improves cognitive function
While it might sound odd, hiking has been proven to stimulate the brain, helping to enhance the brain, stimulate memory and boost problem-solving. It can even help you become more creative!  This combination of physical exercise and sensory stimulation while exploring different trails can help keep your mind sharp. For women over 50, regular hiking can be a fun and engaging way to boost cognitive health and delay the brain's ageing process.

It’s a social activity
Statistics show that around 3 million people in the UK are lonely. By joining a hiking group, you can ward off loneliness and meet like-minded individuals.  Hiking groups help to provide a supportive environment where you can share experiences, motivate each other and form lasting friendships​​​​.

It’s good for your bone health
Hiking is an excellent weight-bearing exercise, which is crucial for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. The varied terrain offers a more comprehensive workout than walking on flat surfaces, strengthening the bones and muscles of the legs, hips, and lower spine.  As undulating terrain can be challenging, it’s important to invest in a good pair of walking boots to provide your feet and ankles with ample support.

It helps regulate your hormones
Regular physical activity like hiking helps regulate your hormones, including those responsible for stress and sleep. By lowering cortisol levels, hiking can improve everything from your sleep quality to your overall mood. Additionally, the physical effort involved in hiking stimulates the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators, which can be particularly beneficial for women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

How to start hiking

For those new to hiking, it's essential to start gradually. Begin with short, manageable trails, and slowly increase the distance and difficulty as your fitness improves. Packing wisely, staying hydrated, planning your route carefully, and using trekking poles can make your hiking experience safer and more enjoyable​​.

Final thoughts ...

Hiking offers comes with so many benefits, from enhancing physical health to fostering social connections and improving mental well-being. If you’re looking for a new way to keep healthy, there’s never been a better time to lace up your hiking boots and head outdoors.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post