One of the most enjoyable winter sports is skiing, it doesn’t matter if it is downhill or cross country. Cross country skiing is very enjoyable and is a great way to get back to nature and downhill skiing is a huge thrill. However, one thing that skiing doesn’t get linked to much is the fact that its a great cardiovascular workout.

Cross country skiing can be very challenging and really get the heart beat up. It is a great way to burn calories and develop muscle. If you want to make it even more interesting try making your own trail, go off the beaten path and see some of natures prettiest scenes. While you are enjoying nature you’ll be right in the middle of a nice cardio workout that provides different scenery then your normal gym and you’ll be burning plenty of calories. In fact if you cross country ski at a moderate pace for just an hour you can expect to burn around 600 calories, and that’s when you aren’t even pushing yourself. If you decide to crank up your intensity you could end up burning between 700-1000 calories in just an hour! Who knew cardio workouts could be so fun?

Downhill skiing can also be challenging and some might say more exciting then cross country skiing. Downhill skiing will also get the heart beat up and burn calories but chances are you are less likely to notice then if you were cross country skiing. You are going to be toning many muscles just like cross country skiing, hamstrings, calfs, quadriceps, glutes, lower back and arms. Its no debate that downhill skiing is very exciting but it also can burn around 500-600 calories an hour. Not bad for an activity that is known more for its excitement then its health benefits.

Beginners don’t be discouraged, most all ski resorts have classes that start out on bunny hills and show you exactly what you need to do to be safe and have a good time. Most people can pick up the basics of skiing after just one lesson. So it won’t take you long before your out their enjoying the slopes and burning calories.

Almost everyone prefers burning calories through fun activities or sports as opposed to going to the gym and running on a machine. It is much more enjoyable and it is a nice change to help you break up that boring routine, not to mention in a lot of cases you’ll burn even more calories and won’t even know it! So don’t let the cold weather get you down. Go outside and stay active this winter and have fun doing it.