During the winter, thousands of British ski enthusiasts, of varying skill levels, will flock to the Alps in search of pistes, powder, and a host of apres-ski activities. Skiing is a pastime that has been enjoyed for generations – and it’s one with a number of benefits. Like any other form of exercise, skiing is great for your body and mind. Let’s go into some of the wellness benefits of skiing.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
If you want to keep control of your offspring, you need to put some effort. Depending on the slope you cross, you will increase your heart rate. This will improve your circulation, and keep your heart in excellent condition. Since you are working at altitude, the strain on your body will actually be a little harder. Thus, the cardiovascular benefits are slightly greater.
It strengthens the muscles and increases the stability of the heart
Staying steady while going down requires keeping your core muscles engaged—as well as those in your quads, glutes, and calves. This constant stabilization work, as well as the effort to actually turn the skis while slaloming each run, can be a great way to build your muscle strength and overall endurance. The workout affects so many muscle groups that it’s perfect to avoid muscle injuries, too – but for the best results, you need to make sure your muscles are in reasonably good shape before you go on vacation.
Increases Mental Health
A great thing about this form of exercise is that it is done outside. Not only that, but it is done, by necessity, far from the main city centers and transportation hubs. This means that the air is just as clean and fresh as possible. In addition, you will find beautiful, inspiring mountain scenery – and in many cases, a lot of forest – around you. This is especially the case in some resorts. Holidays in France, such as Avoriaz, provide ski holidays with exactly the sense of isolation needed.
You will often find yourself achieving a state of perfect relaxation as you descend. Unlike a long walk through nature, a good ski trip can boost your mood, improve your concentration and reduce your stress level. In other words, it’s a perfect antidote to the winter blues.
Increases flexibility and coordination
Skiing also has the benefit of improving coordination and flexibility. You will always be forced to react to new situations, since there are no two descendants alike. Over time, it will improve your motor skills, and your overall sense of where your body is in space. These skills are critically important to avoid injury as you age – as is the fact that skiing leads to stronger bones (despite the fact that you risk breaking them).
It encourages social connection and relaxation
Finally, it is worth emphasizing the social benefits as well as the well-being benefits of skiing. If you are with a group of people, you can encourage others, and share tips to tackle a particular slope. You can even bond with others over some apres-ski activities!