Trekking...

Is trekking* a sport? Many people get confused whether to classify trekking as such, since it does not exactly fit into the usual descriptions of a sport.
In my opinion, trekking is a an activity which requires the trekker to make use of various skills and equipment. The trekker is required to have a good level of physical and mental fitness to participate in this activity. A trekker not only has to carry himself up to the destination, but also has to carry his equipment and luggage with him. This fact alone is enough to consider trekking a sport!
Trekking may often make use of special equipment such as ropes, harnesses, carabiners and other specialised climbing equipment. As such, a trekker should have some knowledge about using such equipment.
Trekkers may often come across situations in which they have to make decisions based on the limited information available. The best example I can think of in my context is choosing the correct path to your destination. Many a time, a path which seems to be leading away from your destination will lead to it. In such scenarios, one may have to choose a path and hope for the best. However, in case of going down the wrong trail, it is imperative that this fact is recognised as soon as possible to avoid being lost!
Communication is extremely important in any trekking/hiking activity. Communication helps in keeping track of the whole group and ensuring that no one is separated. Understanding the group members abilities is only possible through effective communication among the members. This will help the trekkers understand each others strengths and weaknesses. This will help them to decide in which situation, who should lead.
Since trekking is a group activity, it is very important that the group have cordial relations amongst one other. Conflicts arising among the group can be very problematic if not dangerous in some situations. I personally am very apprehensive of combining two separate groups of friends on a trek. But, that is mostly because in case of any conflicts, I would be the one in the middle!

So, we come back to the original question - "Is trekking a sport?"

I think this can answered in a single line - "Most sports teach you the game, trekking teaches you life!"

* The reason behind usage of 'trekking' instead of 'hiking' is because the former is used colloquially in most parts of India. To know more about the difference between these two terms visit this page.