Skiing is a thrilling activity that deserves a spot on our winter bucket list. I try to go a couple of times per year either on the west or the east coast. I’ve also enjoyed places like Cortina, Italy, though I’m hoping to get to Canada and Switzerland. Their scenic mountains always leave me with a loss for words – not from exhaustion mind you, but awe.
Skiing is a great opportunity to bond with family and friends while absorbing the spectacular scenery. The majestic white mountains serve as the playground for those who love the outdoors. The endless paths act as a reminder that there’s always more to explore. While skiing is an activity that can give us a surge in adrenaline rush, it also offers moments for deep reflection. It’s certainly unlike any other–skiing downhill gives that sense of joy, of belonging to nature. It is good for the mind and body, and provides several health benefits.
Skiing improves cardiovascular health
Skiing is an excellent source of cardiovascular exercise that keeps the heart rate levels up. It boosts blood circulation and burns plenty of calories. When our heart rate levels are up due to exercise, we are also strengthening the heart. It enhances the entire cardiovascular system while it increases stamina and endurance. One rarely even notices the exhaustion that can occur from skiing because we are fixated on the spectacular views surrounding us.
According to Harvard Medical School’s chart of calories burned in 30-minute activities, a 125-pound person burns 180 calories; a 155-pound person burns 216 calories; a 185-pound person burns 252 calories. In addition, the cold temperatures contribute to the increase of calories burned since the body forces itself to work harder to raise its own temperature. Skiing burns tremendous calories especially given the fact that it is impossible to ski for just 30 minutes. Most of us tend to ski for hours just because we cannot get enough of the fun and excitement.
Tones major muscle groups
Skiing is known to tone the lower body, but it is also a strengthening workout for the other major muscle groups in the upper body and core. For the lower body, it involves squat positions that target the quads, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. It even activates the muscles in the ankles and feet because it is used for steering and maintaining balance. For the upper body, ski poles are used as a means of propulsion–diagonal stride involves power from the biceps and triceps while the double-pole technique involves core muscles, pectoralis major, deltoids, and latissimus dorsi.
Strengthens bones and joints
Skiing also strengthens bones and joints. When skiing, the knees and ankles hold the tension and weight of our body as we carve downhill. This movement forces the body to adjust to the impact. However, for those with arthritis, it is important to have a sense of your own ability first before skiing outdoors. On should prepare their joints by stretching daily, having a daily walk, or even trying indoor skiing.
Skiing is also a way to combat the early onset of joint pains or the possibility of arthritis. While it naturally comes with aging, it is a great form of exercise to train the joints. You might think that skiing may lead to further damage, but actually the lack of movement and exercise is a larger contributor to keeping the muscles and surrounding tissue strong and thus maintaining support for the bones (and possibly minimizing issues like arthritis). The lack of it would also weaken the supporting muscles, leading to more joint stress (Mayo Clinic, 2020). Hence, skiing may keep you strong and agile as you approach your senior years.
Improves coordination and balance
Being that one is barreling down a mountain, it can be difficult to keep your balance and avoid falls. With the ice and snow adding to the pressure, the body constantly works to retain its coordination and maintain its balance. Both are key components in skiing including the need to react instantly once a slope is encountered and the brain naturally prepares for the movement and action required to meet the impending challenge.
To understand the science of balance in skiing, the British Alpine Ski and Snowboard School highlight that “balance is your number one priority for great skiing.” A good balancing skill is crucial in order to achieve correct edging, which many skiers actually lack leading to incorrect posture and form. The United States Skiing Association also included edging as a primary skill that needs to be developed from the ages of 6 to 10 to “optimally maintain balance against extreme external forces created by tight turn radii and high speeds.” By establishing this skill at an early age, they would be able to maximize their potential in skiing.
Boosts the mood
Skiing is often enjoyed with family and friends. It is more entertaining to have their company because we get to share unforgettable moments that we can look back on for years to come. It also offers quality time since we are all focused on skiing properly, guiding or teaching each other, and appreciating the breathtaking views.
Exercising outdoors promotes the production of endorphins, creating feelings of both tranquility and happiness. Exposure to the sun also increases our vitamin D which plays a role in mood and relaxation. Without a doubt, a quick trip to a ski resort can offer you everything needed to feel on top of the world- literally and figuratively. –Michael Canzian