For some, winter is all about hibernating. The more cold weather, ice, and snow, the more excuses to curl up with a good book on the couch and watch a movie. For others, winter is all about being active. Whether you are hibernating for the winter or looking forward to some cool and adventurous activities, it’s time to think about some heart healthy winter activities. Here are a few:
Cross-Country Skiing
While you might think that cross-country skiing only provides a workout for the lower body like the thighs and calves, you also get a pretty awesome upper body workout too. Many active people go to the gym to get a good cardio workout, build muscle and burn calories too. Cross-country skiing can provide all three benefits.
You might need to hit the gym for a while before heading out cross-country skiing, but the experience and the adventure will offer you many benefits.
Ice-Skating
Most people think of pure fun when they think about ice-skating, but this winter sport can keep you fit while you’re having fun. There are many obvious benefits, but also a few hidden benefits to ice-skating.
- Increase flexibility
- Build up muscles in your calves and legs
- Improve stability and balance
- Give you nice cardio workout
So, next time you’re debating on whether or not to lace up, remember the fun but also remember the health benefits as well.
Sledding
You might not think that sledding provides any benefit health-wise whatsoever. However, if you think about it – what goes up must come down. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll want to do it all over again – which means you have to get back to the top of the hill.
In snow, that’s a bit trickier than on soil. That climb becomes a bit more of a workout, but you’ll probably not notice because you’re too busy having fun.
Snowboarding
The great thing about snowboarding is that it works out your mind and your body. You have to concentrate on keeping your balance while having fun at the same time. Think also of the muscles you use when snowboarding. There are several benefits to this winter sport; you get to have a cardio workout, exercise muscles you never knew you had and keep your mind sharp all at the same time.
Check out this article that tells all about the difference between anaerobic and aerobic exercises and how they both relate to snowboarding.
Of course, with any physical activity (especially winter sports) always check with your doctor beforehand.
