What are the health benefits of skiing and snowboarding?
We put the question to the test! To highlight skiing and snowboarding’s fitness-boosting credentials, we conducted a sub-zero study into the health benefits of a session on the slopes. Teaming up with Manchester based PT, Dominique Binns and TV psychologist, Emma Kenny to assess the results.
The study saw expert instructors from Chill Factore and our guests take to our real snow slope for ski and snowboard lessons with their active calorie counts and heart rates being carefully monitored.
The Results
The findings revealed that not only does skiing boost your mental wellbeing due the exhilaration and adrenaline as you whizz down the 180 meter long slope, it is also excellent for physical fitness.
Findings showed that an hour of skiing burnt over 350 calories for women and 400 calories for men, whilst snowboarding burnt just over 400 calories for both men and women – meaning that if you were to take a full day lesson, you could burn between 2,000 – 2,400 calories. Impressive, right?
A closer look at data also revealed an average heart rate of 130BPM during ski and snowboard lessons, showing that the short, spurts of energy produced really do increase your heart rate - a surefire way to boost fitness levels.
Why is skiing and snowboarding good for your health?
Personal trainer, Dominique Binns on the subject explained;
“It’s those cardiovascular bursts working the heart and lungs that improve aerobic capacity and burn more calories, alongside lowering blood pressure and improving insulin levels”.
High intensity interval training (or HIIT) is a major trend in the industry right now and works by alternating intense bursts of exercise with rest periods – and skiing and snowboarding work in exactly the same way.
A ski or snowboard lesson is also the perfect lower body workout – ideal for toning and strengthening your muscles. All those twists and turns as you navigate the slope work to engage your core as you stabilise your body. Plus, that downhill squat position will do wonders for your bottom!
We know how much fun skiing and snowboarding can be, but our sub-zero study proves just how good it is for health and fitness. The freezing temperatures here at Chill Factore also help to increase metabolism, as the body has to work harder to get to keep warm, resulting in an even tougher workout. Let’s not forget all those mood-boosting endorphins too - fitness makes you feel great.
What about the benefits to your mental health?
On the mental health benefits TV psychologist, Emma Kenny, said:
Skiing and snowboarding have the power to positively affect every element of your life. Setting yourself a goal automatically increases a sense of personal resilience, which is linked to boosting mental wellbeing.
If you are inspired to find out more about how skiing and snowboarding can help you keep active, why not book onto one of our lessons or give snowsports a try with a Fun Taster Lesson.
