Backpacking is an exciting, challenging and rewarding activity for those looking for a unique outdoor experience. It’s also a great way to get some exercise and burn off some calories. But how many calories does backpacking actually burn?
The amount of calories burned backpacking can vary greatly depending on the individual and the type of terrain you are hiking through. Generally speaking, someone who weighs around 160 pounds will burn approximately 600 calories per hour while backpacking at a moderate pace. This increases to over 800 calories per hour when hiking at a vigorous pace.
The intensity of your hike will also have an effect on the number of calories burned. The steeper the trail and heavier your backpack, the more energy you will expend while hiking. When carrying extra weight, such as camping gear or food supplies, your body is forced to work even harder to move forward and this will result in increased calorie expenditure.
In addition to the physical exertion required for backpacking, environmental factors can also play a role in how many calories you burn. For example, hiking in hot temperatures requires your body to work harder in order to maintain its core temperature and this can lead to an increase in calorie expenditure.
Overall, it is difficult to accurately estimate how many calories will be burned while backpacking. Your individual fitness level, the terrain you are traversing and environmental factors are all variables that can affect calorie expenditure while out on the trail. To get an accurate reading of how many calories you are burning while backpacking, it is best to use a heart rate monitor or other tracking device.
Conclusion: Backpacking is an excellent way to get some exercise and burn off some extra calories. Depending on your individual fitness level and type of terrain being hiked, one can expect to burn around 600-800+ calories per hour when backpacking at a moderate-vigorous pace. To get an accurate reading of how many calories you are burning while out on the trail, it is best to use a heart rate monitor or other tracking device.