Snow sports: well-being, fitness and outdoor fun

Winter offers a unique opportunity to combine physical activity and the great outdoors with snow sports. Whether skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing or tobogganing, these disciplines not only allow you to exercise, but also to enjoy the snow-covered landscape. Discover the many benefits they bring, both physically and mentally.

 1. Improved physical condition

• Muscle strengthening: Skiing and snowboarding mainly involve the legs (quadriceps, calves, glutes), but also the abdominal muscles and stabilizing muscles.
• Improved balance and coordination: The movements required to descend a slope or walk with snowshoes develop these essential skills.
• Cardio-training: Skiing or walking in the snow engages the cardiovascular system, contributing to better endurance.

2. Burn calories

Snow sports are an effective way to burn calories while enjoying winter(Ski School).

• Downhill skiing: A day of downhill skiing can burn between 500 and 600 calories per hour.
• Cross-country skiing: Even more energy-hungry, up to 800 calories per hour (enough to warrant a double helping of raclette!).
• Snowshoeing: An excellent alternative for those looking for an accessible yet intense activity.

 3. Mental health benefits

• Stress reduction Immersion in nature, combined with physical effort, helps relieve accumulated tension.
• Vitamin D boost: Even in winter, sun exposure on the slopes promotes the synthesis of vitamin D, essential for bone health, mood and the famous skier's tan. ⛷
• Preventing SAD: Outdoor activities in snowy environments can combat the winter blues (because a good laugh after a fall is worth all the antidepressants). And even if it's Blue Monday, there's nothing like a day on the slopes to melt away the gloom!

 4. An accessible, user-friendly leisure activity

Snow sports also offer an important social dimension. Sharing a day on the slopes with friends or family strengthens bonds and creates unforgettable memories.

• Easy introduction: Many resorts offer beginners' courses with professional instructors.
• Variety of activities: In addition to skiing, explore options such as tobogganing, dog sledding and ice climbing!

5. Connecting with nature

• Unique landscapes: snow-capped mountains provide a spectacular backdrop for rejuvenation.
• Fresh air: enjoy the benefits of an environment far from urban pollution. ⛄
• Revitalizing calm: The silence of snow-covered spaces invites meditation and self-centeredness (or a good snowball fight).

Tips for getting started in snow sports

If you're new to the sport, here are a few key tips for a successful experience:

• Choose the right equipment: Invest in quality equipment or rent it to guarantee comfort and safety.
• Take a course to learn the basics quickly.
• Stay hydrated: Cold weather can mask thirst, so drink regularly (and not just mulled wine!).
• Progress at your own pace: adapt your activities to your physical condition and don't hesitate to take breaks.

Snow sports are much more than just a winter pastime: they combine fitness, well-being and fun. So get your equipment ready, discover the ski resorts and head for adventure on the slopes! 🏂❄

By Candice Lhomme