We all have walked a lot in our lifetime. Have you ever thought of it?

We learn to walk as early as ten months old. Despite the everyday convenience of driving, walking has been a dominant mode of commuting in our lives. Many of us turn it into a hobby, which is known as ‘hiking’.

There is a fundamental difference between hiking and walking. Walking, as a leisurely outdoor activity, is often done in urban spaces or via trail routes. It is an activity that lasts for a short period. Whereas, hiking as an outdoor activity includes long distances which take place in the lap of nature with dynamic terrains. If you are hiking over multiple days, it might cause exertion.

Walking is defined as a physical exercise that does not require any equipment or skill. It is usually done at your pace. However, hiking is an outdoor activity that takes you through unpaved trails or routes. It challenges your physical ability and requires minimum knowledge of equipment and hiking skills.

Various factors determine the difference between both hiking and walking as an activity. Some of them are:

Location and Route: Walking can be useful around urban spaces, for commuting purposes, as well as for leisurely strolls during the evenings. Whereas, hiking takes natural routes and includes unfamiliar terrain such as uneven dirt trails or steep hills.

Energy level: Both walking and hiking require a certain amount of energy exertion. While hiking, you carry additional weight on your back. There is also a difference in the level of inclination and descent, which is not experienced while walking.

Distance: Distance is an important factor that determines the difference between walking and hiking. Walking routes are a mile or two long. Whereas, hiking can continue for several miles. It can extend for more than two-three days or even a week.

Pace: Walking is seen to be slow-paced or consistent whereas hiking requires going up and down difficult terrain. It also includes fast and slow movements according to the elevation of the route.

Comparing the benefits of hiking and walking

Both walking and hiking have their benefits, some of which are mental and physical well-being and daily inspiration and motivation.

Hiking

  • Hiking allows you to explore alternative routes and open your senses to nature.
  • It relieves stress and lets you enjoy the adventure.
  • It helps reduce anxiety levels, because of the brain’s processing centre, especially if you hike every day.
  • Furthermore, it tones your body and enhances overall health by targeting the entire body and not just the legs.
  • Provides motivation and increases self-confidence

Walking

  • Walking doesn’t require any gear or equipment.
  • Walking every day ensures a higher life expectancy.
  • It can also be done indoors or outdoors in parks, or walking routes in the neighbourhood
  • reduces the risk of various diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and improves mental health. Not only that, it also improves your self-esteem.
  • It allows exposure to natural sunlight, which boosts your immune system.

To conclude, both walking and hiking are important ways to improve your health and keep you fit and healthy. However, all hiking is walking, but not all walking is hiking.