Hiking is the physical activity during which we walk a long distance of more than 5 kilometers. Hiking is addressed to all people of all ages and especially to those who love walking and wandering in nature, mountains, rivers, seas, islands, and even cities.
We can distinguish three categories of hiking depending on the degree of difficulty in simple hiking, mountain hiking, and mountaineering:
A. Simple hiking
It is the simplest form of hiking. With a minimum distance of 5 km and a maximum of 20, ie one to two hours, with an altitude difference of 150-300 meters with no soil difficulties. It is done on sloping ground with light equipment, which consists of sneakers or shoes (mountain boots - trekking), light compatible clothing depending on the season, and a small backpack where you can have some water and snacks. It is the type of hiking that is accessible to everyone, as long as they are in good health. Simple hiking can be done anywhere there is a suitable environment, in a forest, on a mountain, by the sea. Simple hiking is an excellent physical activity.
B. Mountain hiking
Here the distance is around 15-20 kilometers and takes 5-8 hours, but sometimes the kilometers in relation to the hours lose their value a little because the ground is mountainous and can present difficulties, resulting in traveling a few kilometers per hour. The equipment is specialized and especially in the winter season must be suitable. The main features of mountain hiking are the altitude difference, it can reach 500 to 600 meters and at an altitude of over 1000 meters people who can take part in the mountain hiking should have already done simple hiking and be able to deal with possible difficulties. It presupposes that you are in very good physical condition.
C. Mountaineering
Mountaineering is the most difficult form of hiking. A common goal of mountaineering is to conquer a mountain peak. A typical mountaineering climb takes 7 to 10 hours with the return. When the field is frozen, special winter equipment (crampons, axes) and good knowledge of their handling are needed. People who will be involved in mountaineering must be perfectly healthy in excellent physical condition and have gone through the two previous stages of hiking. Experience and long-term involvement with mountaineering are important.
Finally, hiking is the basis for many other sports activities and is widely recommended as a practical form of physical exercise. The ability to walk long distances without getting tired also helps to enjoy other activities.
