The health benefits of skiing

Imagine celebrating your 100th birthday by skiing your favourite slopes - sounds amazing, right? That’s exactly what George Jedenoff, a Californian skiing enthusiast, did at Utah's Snowbird Resort. While George’s longevity isn’t solely due to skiing, it’s undeniable that skiing offers numerous health benefits for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or hitting the slopes for the first time, here’s why skiing is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind.

Struggling with insomnia? Skiing might be your secret weapon. It combines full-body exercise, fresh mountain air, and mental focus, all of which are known to promote deep, restorative sleep. Even a couple of afternoon runs can leave you feeling blissfully ready for bed - no sheep-counting required!

Skiing is a workout disguised as play. A 30-minute downhill run can burn up to 266 calories for an 80kg person, while cross-country skiing can torch up to 355 calories. It’s not just the skiing itself - carrying your gear, hiking to lifts, and keeping up with friends all add to the calorie burn. Plus, skiing encourages healthier eating and moderation with après drinks to keep you fresh for another day on the slopes.

Ever felt the post-ski burn in your legs? That’s your body thanking you for a full-body workout. Skiing engages your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and core while strengthening joints and improving flexibility. Over time, it can help stave off issues like osteoarthritis. And let’s not forget—you’re building strength and endurance all while having an incredible time outdoors.

Cardiovascular exercise is crucial for heart health, and skiing delivers in spades. Even moderate skiing gets your heart pumping, helping your body produce nitric oxide, which improves circulation and relaxes blood vessels. By staying active year-round to prepare for skiing, you’re also building long-term heart health.

Skiing is a proprioceptive activity, meaning it enhances your ability to sense the position and movement of your body. Constantly adjusting to maintain balance and refine technique strengthens these skills. Improved balance reduces the risk of slips and falls as you age, keeping you active and independent for years to come.

That goes without saying, right? Skiing isn’t just great for your body; it’s a treat for your mind. 

Fresh mountain air, sunny skies, and breath-taking views can lift your spirits and provide a much-needed dose of Vitamin D (known to help ward off SAD, otherwise known as Seasonal Affective Disorder). Skiing also encourages social bonding and releases endorphins, giving you that unmistakable “natural high.” 

Whether it’s tackling a challenging slope or sharing laughs with friends, skiing is a guaranteed mood-booster. The respected Mayo clinic describes exercise as ‘meditation in motion’ and anyone who has experienced the pure unadulterated bliss of sailing through a fresh field of powder in the sunshine can no doubt relate to that.

Skiing offers an unbeatable combination of fun, fitness, and wellness. Whether you’re looking to improve your strength, balance, or mental well-being, the slopes are calling. Explore our luxury ski holidays and experience the health benefits of skiing for yourself. Get in touch today.