If you’re sick of being stuck in a gym using the same elliptical machines and free weights you’ve been working out with for years, you might want to try a new outdoor activity. So why not try skiing? It provides a fantastic full-body workout and can improve your overall mental and physical health.
How does Skiing Improve Your Physical Health?
People who have never skied before might find just getting decked out in ski gear to be a workout! But once you’re ready to get out there and hit the snow, you’ll be amazed at how much great exercise you’ll treat your body to.
Here are a few ways that skiing improves your physical health:
- Cardiovascular health. Skiing is considered an anaerobic activity, which means you go hard at short intervals and then get a rest. Anaerobic activity builds muscle, so it’s great for all muscles—including your heart.
- Weight loss. All exercise helps you shed a few unwanted pounds. And thanks to their calorie-burning nature, both downhill and cross-country skiing get your heart rate up and your weight down.
- Muscle tone. Skiing works muscles all over your body. So if you’re looking to tone muscles like your abs, glutes, quads, and hamstrings, skiing can help!
Because skiing is such an intense workout, you should talk to your doctor before you hit the slopes or pick a park for your first cross-country adventure. A medical professional can perform a physical to make sure you’re physically ready to start up strenuous activities like skiing.
All athletes—even members of the HomeLight-sponsored US Ski Team—require medical care sometimes. And who knows? Your doctor might even be a ski fanatic who can recommend some great spots to ski!
How does Skiing Improve Your Mental Health?
Like many exercise routines, skiing can provide mental health benefits. Working out can improve sleep patterns, self-esteem, and overall mood. In other words, the physical activity that skiing requires can boost your mental health.
Pretty obviously, skiing is usually an outdoor activity. Studies have shown that nature can improve mental health, so just getting outdoors may help if you struggle with mental illness. So get out there, breathe in some fresh air, and let yourself be awestruck by the astounding beauty of nature around you.
An additional mental health benefit that skiing can provide is a much-needed vacation. You can plan the trip of a lifetime with your family, friends, or on your own. Just hop online and find the ski resort of your dreams!
Where Can You Ski Year-round?
As we approach the warmer months, you might think that skiing season is coming to an end. But in many parts of the world, you can ski every day of the year. Here are a few world-class ski resorts to check out even in the dog days of summer:
- Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
- Courchevel, France
- Zermatt, Switzerland
- Vail Mountain Resort, Colorado, USA
- Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, USA
So, what are you waiting for? Strap on those skis and enjoy your workout!