Understanding the health benefits of skiing

As the seasons change, so do the opportunities to engage in various activities to keep us healthy while having fun. Millions of Canadians enjoy embracing the snow and hitting the slopes every winter. Skiing is a classic cold weather sport that has an abundance of physical and mental health benefits. Before you get started, there are simple preventative measures to consider in order to maximize your experience.

Physical Benefits

Over 2.5 million Canadians enjoy skiing and snowboarding every year. In particular, skiing continues to be a popular activity that also provides a great workout. Needless to say, when you’re having fun skiing it really doesn’t feel like exercise. The more enjoyable an activity is, the more likely you are to be consistent. To reap the benefits of working out, consistency is essential. During a typical Canadian winter, you don’t have to go too far to hit the slopes and enjoy a regular fun workout.

Studies also indicate that when parents are physically active, their children naturally become active as well. Spending time together outside while getting exercise can change your family dynamic. Resist the urge to hibernate during the winter and create new memories when the season changes. Eventually, participating in winter activities together will be a part of your family’s culture.

Mental Health Benefits

Many people struggle with the effects of less daylight and long days of colder weather. It is actually normal to experience depression, especially during this time of year. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the same season each year. In addition to prolonged sad and despairing moods, other symptoms include: agitation or feeling slowed down, irritability and fatigue. Some treatments include psychotherapy or medication (depending on the individual), and being outside helps to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Skiing provides an opportunity to enjoy fresh air while working up a sweat in a fun way to increase the serotonin in your body. This hormone is responsible for improving your mood and supporting your nervous system. Skiing is a great form of exercise in the winter that will ultimately support your mental health.

Proactive Health Tips

Like all activities, skiing does come with some risks including aching feet and muscles. Here are some simple ways to stay safe while having fun this winter:

 
• Warm up before you get started: cold muscles have to work harder, so do a light stretch before you begin.
 
• Focus on overall body fitness: balance, coordination and agility training is important before skiing.
 
• Get the right equipment: poorly fitting boots lead to poor foot mechanics and pain. The most common mistake is having boots that are too stiff and narrow.
 
• Consult a specialist: certified Chiropodists or Podiatrists have the expertise to treat a variety of foot conditions and customize orthotics for your ski boots to prevent injuries.
 
• Manage pre-existing injuries or instability: Physiotherapy is an effective way to address muscle aches including persistent neck and back pain before you engage in any activity.
 
• Massage Therapy: relieve muscle tension and improve circulation after you hit the slopes with a sports massage.

GETTING STARTED

Whether you’re new to skiing or an avid skier, having the right health care practitioner can help you stay in true form. If you are experiencing muscle aches and pains, it is essential that you get the right help before you engage in any activity this winter, including skiing.

There are various health professionals that could save you from the effects of ongoing pain and support your overall well being. In the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), HealthCasa partners with certified practitioners that are available for in-home appointments. Discover the full suite of mobile healthcare services, including Massage Therapy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Chiropody, and Custom Orthotics.

Stay active and healthy this year with a little help from HealthCasa.

Appointments are available online and in person 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the GTHA and adhere to all COVID-19 safety protocols according to local health guidelines.