Hit the Slopes for Better Health!

By Donna Stark

Hate the snow? Well, if you do, it may be because you aren't taking advantage of all the fun you can have with it! Sure, you may need to drive a little bit to get to that fun, but if you listen very carefully, those mountains are calling your name. It's time to grab your winter gear, call your best friends, embrace this winter weather, and hit the slopes! Because in addition to having a great time while skiing and snowboarding down those hills, you will also be doing your body and mind some good. Here's why.

Strengthens Your Bones and Joints

You may have heard some things about incorporating weight-bearing exercise into your daily fitness routine and if you are looking for ways on how to do that, skiing is your answer! There is a lot of weight your legs have to carry as you are soaring down the slopes and as a result, your bones and joints will become stronger. This can help reduce the risk of future injuries and degeneration in your knees.

Improves Balance, Coordination, and Stability

It's easy to see how skiing and snowboarding can improve your balance, coordination, and stability because that's what these two sports are centered around! In fact, if you aren't paying attention to your body's movements and positions, there is little chance you will make it down the mountain without falling. And, because it requires a great deal of strength in your core muscles to stay upright, each run you go on will only improve their function!

Provides an Amazing Cardio Workout

You may think that riding in a little basket to the top of a mountain and gliding down sounds easy, but you would be wrong! These winter sports are a serious workout! Your blood will be flowing and your heart and lungs will be pumping in no time! On top of that, just imagine all the calories you can burn!

Boosts Your Mood

There is nothing better than exercising outdoors, in nature, with those you love the most! Studies have shown that all three can reduce stress, boost moods, and increase overall happiness and well-being. On top of that, you will also be able to get an extra dose or two of Vitamin D. You really can't go wrong with these two activities!

Get Off Your Couch

Heading to the mountains is a great way to have fun and improve your overall well-being, so what do you say? Are you ready to get off your couch and give winter a chance this year? You may be surprised by how much fun it is!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntington Valley, Pa.