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Abstract

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology Volume 6: Issue 1, Article 13, 2025. Through-hikes on long distance backpacking routes have the potential to both improve physical fitness and pose health risks. PURPOSE: To quantify changes in cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition, while recording dietary intake and sleep habits in a sample of through-hikers. METHODS: Participants completed two lab visits consisting of a maximal graded treadmill test and body composition assessments. Hiking volume, energy expenditure, sleep duration, and sleep staging were estimated during the hike using a smart watch. Participants kept a journal of all food and beverage intake. RESULTS: Over the course of the hike, participants significantly increased their absolute VO2max (+0.5 ± 0.1 L/min, t = 5.242, p = 0.04) and relative VO2max (+12.1 ± 2.1 ml/kg/min, t = 5.708, p = 0.03). With respect to body composition, participants significantly decreased their body mass (-9.0 ± 1.4 kg, t = 6.67, p = 0.02) and fat mass (-6.8 ± 1.7 kg, t = 4.071, p = 0.05). There were no significant changes in lean mass (+1.09 ± 1.6 kg, t = 0.681, p = 0.57). Although all participants slept the recommended 7-9 hours per night on average, none met the advised amount of deep sleep per night. Hiker’s diets were lacking in energy sufficiency and were low in several micronutrients. CONCLUSION: Extended through-hiking may improve fitness while promoting low quality diets and sleep. Targeted dietary and sleep interventions could mitigate these effects and promote better health outcomes

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