Many Americans are finding that skiing is an outstanding form or exercise, and offers many benefits for body and mind. Even older Americans are taking up the sport, especially cross country skiing, which is slower than downhill skiing and better suited to their skills and reflexes.
So what are these health benefits that skiing offers? Starting with the physical advantages, skiing is a great way to work the body's core muscle groups. If you've been out of shape when hitting the skiing slopes or trails, you probably experienced soreness for a few days in muscles you didn't know you had. Downhill skiing works leg muscles very well. The more turning you do, the more muscles are worked. Using ski poles consistently will work the upper body's muscle groups, too. Cross country skiing is a natural for exercising muscles throughout the entire system. You'll feel it in your legs, abdomen, arms, and back when you get started, and these areas will become increasingly toned as you continue skiing regularly.
Secondly, skiing offers a very good cardiovascular workout. While cross country skiing is preferable, if you downhill ski aggressively, your heart will get pumping, too. A regular cardio workout is essential to long term good health. And if you are seeking to lose weight, both cross country and downhill skiing are proven fat burners!
One of the other reasons that health specialists recommend skiing is that it is low-impact, not causing the kind of harm to ankles, knees and hips. This is true, of course, unless you engage in a great deal of mogul skiing or if you like to take the jumps whenever possible. Just don't overdo it and you'll be fine. A certain amount of impact is needed to spur bone development, an essential part of preventing osteoporosis, and you will get that minimal amount during a vigorous morning of downhill or cross country skiing.
Maintaining a healthy mind is essential to overall health, too, and skiing offers significant benefits. Spending time out of doors is proven to elevate brain chemicals that prevent or relieve depression and anxiety. Skiing is done on mountainsides and on wooded trails, and the natural beauty, whether the sun is shining, clouds are covering, or the snow is falling, will produce a calming, satisfying effect. Vigorous exercise like skiing also causes endorphins to be released into the body, giving the person a sense of well-being and the joy of accomplishment.
If you are looking for an enjoyable hobby that offers a total body workout for the muscles and the mind, consider taking up skiing. Whether you downhill ski or choose cross country skiing, you'll find a great deal to like.
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