Anxiety and Musculoskeletal Discomfort Among Novice Climbers: A Case Study of a Multi-day Hike at Gunung Tok Nenek (1,916 Meter)

Introduction: Multi-day mountain hikes pose psychological and physical challenges, particularly among novice climbers with limited outdoor experience. Despite the growing popularity of recreational trekking in Malaysia, limited research has explored the impact on hikers’ anxiety and musculoskeletal health. Objective: This study aimed to examine anxiety levels and musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) among novice hikers during a multi-day ascent of Gunung Tok Nenek, Malaysia. Methods: Twenty-nine participants (mean age 21.1 years; 55% female) with minimal hiking experience completed the climb. Anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) before and after the expedition and MSD was assessed using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Anthropometric data, including BMI (mean = 20.16), were recorded. Observational field notes and brief interviews were conducted post-hike. Results: The mean pre-hike anxiety score (STAI-State) was 2.15 (SD = 0.47), increasing to 2.62 (SD = 0.53) post-hike. MSD was reported in the head (86.2%), upper body (75.9%), and lower body (100%) regions. Novice hikers reported discomfort-related interference with physical performance, particularly in the lower limbs. A significant positive correlation was found between post- hike anxiety and the number of MSD-affected regions (ρ = 0.473, p = .019). The- matic analysis of qualitative data identified three key patterns: terrain-related discomfort, anxiety linked to environmental unfamiliarity, and load-carrying challenges. These qualitative findings complemented the quantitative data, reinforcing the physical and psychological strain experienced during multi-day climbs. Conclusions: Novice climbers reported a moderate increase in anxiety levels and MSD affecting multiple body regions following the multi-day hike. These findings highlight the need for psychological preparation and physical conditioning before engaging in prolonged mountain trekking.