Here's Something From the American Hiking Society

Most Americans are aware of the health benefits of exercising. There are dozens of medical studies, not to mention articles on the internet, newsreports, and doctors warnings, all vouching for the mental and physical rewards that your body receives from exercising. But did you know that only 15% of the U.S. adult population participates in even moderate physical activities?

For many people, the word "exercise" brings mental images of sweaty and painful hours in a gym, toiling on a treadmill, or running outdoors in 95 degree heat. However, a good exercise program doesn't have to involve pain or a boring workout. An excellent workout can be as simple and fun as a brisk 30 minute walk or a slower one hour walk. A great place to do this is on the Backcountry Trail! According to the American Heart Association, walking vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes three or four times a week can:
1. Control obesity
2. Lessen your chances of heart disease
3. Improve and maintain your mental health
4. Slow down the aging process
5. Prevent osteoporosis
6. Prevent and control diabetes
7. Helps in relief of painful arthritis and back pain.

With the beginning of the new year, now is the perfect time to become more active and develop a healthier lifestyle. And like I mentioned before, a great place for you to get healthy and enjoy some beautiful scenery at the same time is out on the Backcountry Trail...a real two for one. Try walking, biking, jogging or hiking  on the trail and you will find out that, after just a few days, you will come home feeling much better than you did when you left the house. Don't believe it? Just ask some of those people that are out on the trail everyday.