Lace 'em up! For a mental health boost, take a hike

Regular hikes strengthen the body's immune system, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and lower blood sugar levels, according to studies. – Stock photo by Gianni Crestani via Pixabay

There's hardly an outdoor activity requiring as little preparation as hiking. It's a perfect way to be physically active during the pandemic without overexerting yourself.

Hiking isn't only a pleasant diversion, it's also beneficial to health. Regular hikes strengthen the body's immune system, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and lower blood sugar levels, according to Dr Tobias Erhardt, director of physiotherapy studies at the Karlsruhe campus of the SRH University of Applied Sciences for Health in Germany.