There is something significant about learning to coordinate the firing of signals to a dozen muscles at once (and maintain those GO signals for the duration of the rep) which cannot be replicated any way other than lifting a big weight with one or more major muscle groups.
Also, as an aside, for the duration of that one rep, (if the weight is sufficiently heavy for the lifter) the mind narrows focus completely - no other conscious thoughts are present at that time. This is an interesting contrast to how many of our HN-type minds usually operate.
I suppose that’s true of many things. I already recognized it from performing music, but the athletic experience had escaped me until this topic came up.
I don’t think that’s the goal for most people. For those wanting to do enjoyable activities, hiking is a good way to get some exercise and enjoy nature, which can be as meditative as any other cardio.
If muscle mass is the goal, hiking isn’t the best way to do that. But it can be healthy in a variety of ways for many people.
OP wondered about the differences between lifting and hiking. Please read my comment in that context. I was an avid hiker for years, so I get what you're saying. I don't think anyone is hiking to build mass. That would be silly.
