Backpacking is an incredibly rewarding experience that combines physical exertion, mental stimulation, and the beauty of nature. It can be a great way to burn calories and get some much-needed exercise. But how many calories can one really burn while backpacking?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including your body weight and size, the type of terrain you are traversing, and the amount of gear you are carrying. A person who is larger and carrying a heavier load will burn more calories than someone who is smaller and carrying less gear. Additionally, the steeper the grade of the terrain, the more calories you will be burning.
According to Harvard Health Publishing (HHP), a 140-pound person can expect to burn around 500 calories per hour while backpacking. This number increases if you are hiking at higher altitudes or carrying a heavier load.
However, it’s important to note that these numbers are estimates and should not be taken as gospel. Everyone’s caloric expenditure while backpacking will be different depending on their individual physiology and body composition.
Backpacking is also beneficial in ways beyond calorie burning. It is known to reduce stress levels and provide an outlet for creative thinking by allowing you to unplug from your daily life and enjoy nature’s beauty. The physical exertion involved in backpacking can also help tone muscles, improve balance, build strength, and provide a great cardiovascular workout while enjoying stunning landscapes with friends or solo.
Conclusion
Backpacking is an excellent way to burn calories while also enjoying other benefits such as stress relief, creative thinking stimulation, improved balance, muscle toning and strength building. Exactly how many calories one burns while backpacking may vary depending on individual physiology as well as terrain type, altitude level and amount of gear carried but estimates suggest that a 140-pound person can expect to burn around 500 calories per hour backpacking.