Why should you try cross-country skiing? 3 reasons from a pro

Many people are afraid of cold weather, but there are many ways to warm up and lose weight at the same time. For example, you can get on your skis and run towards the sun, even if it’s freezing. Along the way, you can burn a few hundred calories and tone your muscles. Here are a few more reasons to try this sport.

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Skiing is a harmonious cardio workout without overload. If someone wants to lose weight, it’s a great way to burn extra calories.

Sergei: For training, you should choose the appropriate style of skiing – skate or classic – and the appropriate skis. Each manufacturer has several groups of models: for beginners, beginners and athletes. You should choose them primarily by weight, not height (most have a weight range marking). There is even a saying: “Skis don’t feel height, they only feel weight”.

No impact
Unlike running, skiing doesn’t put your body under shock loads, which can lead to negative consequences. Skiing is also good because even if you have spinal problems, you can choose a comfortable style of skiing and enjoy the beauty of the winter forest. Suitable, for example, classic or free.

Opportunity to lose weight
Cross-country skiing is an energy-intensive activity. Even if you just walk along the piste, you can spend a lot of energy. If someone wants to lose weight, this is a great way to burn off extra calories. An hour of skiing burns about 300-600 kcal, depending on the style of skiing and individual characteristics. For example, professional skiers burn up to 1300 kcal per hour when skiing cross-country. For amateurs there will be other figures: on average 500 kcal per hour for men and 400 kcal for women.

How to prepare for skiing?

Sergey: Let’s start with the fact that there are practically no weather restrictions. You can go skiing even at -25°C. The main thing is the right equipment. Beginners often overheat because they use ski clothes or dress very warmly. When you go skiing, you should feel a slight chill. There should not be excessive heat, but unzipping and opening your chest to the cold air is not worth it – it will lead to hypothermia. Therefore, it is better to use special clothes with ventilation on the back and special light inserts on the pants.