We need a Professional Hiking League

Hiking is just a recreational activity.

But I think it could be more. I think hiking should be made into a professional activity, a sport, a league.

Why not? Cycling is both a recreational activity and a sport. Running, too.

Hiking could be, as well. I would watch that on TV. Heck, I might even compete.

What do you all think about this wild idea of hiking made into a sport?

I enjoy cycling. I used to be a very avid cyclist. But watching cycling, except for the occasional highlights, has never held my attention.

I'd probably be the same way with hiking. I might read the occasional article, or even a book. I would enjoy some photos and video highlights and might be able to name the top few hikers, but probably wouldn't really follow the sport.

That said, it does seem like it could be a real sport. And could result in developing some interesting techniques and equipment. It would combine endurance, strength, agility, technique, and creativity. If I followed any sport, this might be the one

Danl said:

If I followed any sport, this might be the one

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That would kind of be me.

I follow Tour de France but just the quick highlights. I couldn't sit there and watch the whole thing.

I'd much rather ride the bike than watch people ride LOL

Professional hikers exist, when paired with photography and guidebooks that sell. Possibly online podcasts, these days.

But as some kind of spectator sport? Racing through scenery pretty much defeats the purpose for hiking, IMO.

Driftwoody said:

But as some kind of spectator sport? Racing through scenery pretty much defeats the purpose for hiking, IMO.

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Yeah. It would be a hard sport to make without it turning into trail running. Then it wouldn't be hiking anymore.