Question 1

How much does a backpack's weight affect calorie burn?

Accepted Answer

Carrying a pack significantly increases calorie burn. A 10-20 pound pack can increase your energy expenditure by 10-15% compared to hiking without a pack on the same terrain. Our intensity levels are designed to generally account for this.

Question 2

Is hiking a good way to lose weight?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Hiking, especially on varied terrain, is a great full-body workout that can burn a substantial number of calories. A long, moderate hike can burn as many calories as a shorter, more intense run, but is often more enjoyable and sustainable for many people.

Question 3

Does altitude affect how many calories I burn?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hiking at a higher altitude increases your metabolic rate and the effort required to breathe, which in turn increases calorie burn. This calculator does not directly account for altitude, but a high-altitude hike would likely fall into the 'Difficult' or 'Extreme' intensity categories.

Question 4

What's the difference between hiking and walking calories?

Accepted Answer

Hiking typically involves uneven terrain and changes in elevation, which requires more effort and engages more stabilizing muscles than walking on a flat surface. This results in a higher MET value and greater calorie burn for hiking compared to walking at the same speed.

FitCalcStack

FitCalcStack

Hiking Calories Burned

Hiking Calories Burned

About the Hiking Calories Burned

How Hiking Calories are Calculated

Hiking Calories FAQ