Winter is a time to unwind and enjoy, but don’t use it as an excuse to skip exercising. If you are too bored of the usual exercises, try some winter sports that are fun and entertaining. Enjoy these winter sports with your family and friends, as this can be a great way to bond with them.
Here is a list of winter sports to keep you in good shape:
1. Downhill and Cross Country Skiing: Cross country skiing is good for total-body workout. There is a good flexibility of thighs, back and shoulders. Skiing through snow taxes every muscle group and the varying terrain and conditions provide great interval training. It fires up the metabolism and increases calorie burn in cold weather.
2. Snowboarding: Snowboarding is the preferred recreational physical activity of winter for the past two decades. It is a lot of fun and a great sport for kids and parents alike. People feel that it is easier to learn than skiing.
3. Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is a cross-training, conditioning sport that is a great recreation for the whole family. It is a sport in which almost everone can participate, no matter their age, fitness level, or expertise. Snowshoeing is a great form of aerobic exercise that improves cardiovascular fitness and burns calories.
4. Ice Skating: People of all age groups, from toddlers to seniors, can enjoy the health benefits of ice skating. It increases flexibility, helps build endurance and strengthen muscles.
Other sports you can play throughout the year to remain fit and healthy:
5. Soccer: If you are are overweight, a game of soccer every day for half an hour will be enough to burn your excess calories. But don’t play soccer, if you suffer from any knee problem.
6. Squash is the preferred game of many Americans. Playing for 30 minutes on the squash court provides an impressive cardiorespiratory workout. It builds muscular strength and endurance in the lower body and the twists and turns increase the flexibility in the back and abdomen. Start with a little practise for 10 minutes everyday and increase the time gradually to 30 or 45 minutes.
7. Swimming: Swimming helps to keep your body in good shape and is very good for growing teens to increase the height. It promotes cardiorespiratory health and overall muscular endurance.
8. Running: Running is something which we don’t need to learn like other sports. It is good for cardiorespiratory endurance and maintaining the lower body and waistline. You don’t need to run much unless you want to burn plenty of calories. But moderation is the key word here. Don’t overdo it. If you have any reservations about running, a simple brisk walk will also do. Don’t run if you suffer from a knee problem.
9. Cycling: Cycling is the aerobic activity of choice for people who want to avoid the injury risks of running. It is beneficial for cardiorespiratory health, body composition and muscular endurance.
10. Basketball: The continuous movements are good for cardiorespiratory system and burning calories. It builds strength and endurance. And it improves the flexibility of your body. But the side-effects can be high rate of injury from stops, starts, twists and turns. Stop playing basketball if your body cannot tolerate and if you notice any cramps.
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