The Benefits of Snowshoeing

Looking for a way to workout while also having fun in the snow? Snowshoeing is a low impact activity with many fitness, health, and social benefits. In fact, snowshoeing burns more calories than walking at the same pace! It’s important that we keep our bodies and minds active during the winter months, and snowshoeing is a great way to keep on top of one’s health.

Once winter hits, it can be hard for us to bring ourselves to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.  Snowshoeing can help us to avoid the winter blues and explore nature, while changing our mind set and relationship with winter.

By getting outside, we lower our exposure to dust and germs, which occurs from spending extended periods of time indoors with the windows closed. Sun exposure also boosts our Vitamin D levels, which is another reason why we should get outside into the cool fresh air.

To avoid the cold, we tend to spend less time with friends and more time on the couch. This impacts our social wellness. Snowshoeing is a recreational activity that most can do, which in turn encourages us to reach out to friends and family to join us.

We all know exercise can help reduce our stress levels, maintain or improve our body composition, and improve our self-confidence. Snowshoeing can directly improve cardiovascular fitness, balance, strength and endurance. It is also great for those that have lower back or knee injuries, since the snow acts as a cushion when we step on it.

With all these benefits in mind, there is little doubt that snowshoeing can be a fun and healthy alternative to the gym; so don’t fear the snow – get outside and embrace it!

Don’t have snowshoes? Take advantage of the snow and try out one of our new snowshoe rentals.  To rent yours, visit https://personnel-support-programs.myshopify.com/

 

Article: Kim Baylis
Editors: Cheryl McKinnon, Kelly Keates