In short, most people agree that: No, hiking is not a sport.
According to Google, the definition of a sport is an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.
Although there is some level of debate among people on whether it is or not.
Is Hiking A Sport?
Here are the most popular arguments people make.
Yes, hiking is a sport.
No, hiking is not a sport.
Why Is Hiking Not Considered A Sport?
The definition of a sport includes four key aspects.
- Physical exertion
- Skill
- Competition
- Entertainment
Let's dive into each of these core components that define whether an activity is a sport.
Physical exertion: No doubt, hiking requires a level of physical fitness to do.
Skill: Hiking does take a certain amount of skill to do. Navigating up and down a steep mountain takes precision depending on the difficultly of the trail. After hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains recently, I found more experienced hikers zooming past me with trekking poles in hand.
Competition: One major area that disqualifies hiking as a sport is the fact that there is a lack of competition. People that do race each other up a mountain would be considered trail running rather than hiking. Which in more competitive settings, running is most definitely a sport.
Entertainment: Another area that hiking does not fit the qualities of a sport would be in entertainment. You don't see hiking in the Olympics, unless you're talking about Olympic National Park. In general hiking is not broadcasted for people to watch.
To Conclude
Hiking involves both physical exertion and skill, although it lacks competition and entertainment therefore disqualifying it the title of a sport.
Most people agree that hiking is more of a recreational activity, done to bring one closer to nature and beautiful views rather than to compete.