Out of the Gym and into the Snow

Looking for a way to lose weight, burn gobs of calories and get an awesome aerobic workout without having to pay membership fees at a stinky gym? Where there's snow, there's a way. Walking in snowshoes can burn 600 or more calories per hour, a huge boost for any diet plan. Snowshoeing is an exciting and challenging alternative to the gym. Just think, instead of staring at hind ends and heavy equipment, you could be gazing up at tall pines, crossing over frozen lakes, even snowshoeing through hills and mountains, depending on where you live.

Snowshoeing is a winter sport dating back further than the first pair of skis. Like cross country skiing, snowshoeing is an excellent cardiovascular work out, and provides its participants with many long term health benefits. It is believed that snowshoes originated in Asia over 5,000 years ago. The transportation device crossed the land bridge with the migrating tribes of people from the Asian continent.

Traditional wooden snowshoes work well on trails and light terrain. Aluminum snowshoes, introduced in the 1970's and improved upon in the 1990's, offer more traction and support. The average price for a modest pair of snowshoes runs from $100-$200 a pair. Pricier models are designed for more rigorous mountain conditions. You'll want to keep in mind the types of terrain you'll be hiking through when choosing your snowshoes.

Poles are another important piece of snowshoeing equipment to consider. Using two poles as in cross country skiing provides vital support for the back, hips, and legs. Going up inclines or down steep hills can be difficult to maneuver in snowshoes. Using poles while snowshoeing can help minimize the stress on your joints and muscles while helping maintain balance.

Dressing for the weather and strenuous activity while snowshoeing is equally, if not more important than the equipment. Wear wool socks and wool socks only. Cotton socks will only soak with sweat leaving feet cold and susceptible to frostbite. Long underwear and layers are a must. You can always peel them off if the weather is nice and it gets too hot. Moisture absorbing material is best, but if you're on a budget, good old Fruit-of-the-Loom will do.

Finding a place to go snowshoeing, considering you're already in climate with snow, shouldn't be difficult with the wonderful State and National Park trail systems throughout the country. Visit the State and National Park websites to find a park near you. Many parks have trails for snowshoeing and even offer snowshoe rentals. Itasca State Park and Lake Bemidji State Park in Northern Minnesota both offer guided snowshoeing hikes. Check with your local park to see if such opportunities are offered.

If outdoor adventure and the opportunity for a great workout excite you, then get off the treadmill and into the snow. Make sure to remember safety first, especially when snowshoeing in mountains and rough terrain. Snowshoeing can be enjoyed alone, or with family and friends. Snowshoeing is a fun way to lose weight and get a great cardiovascular workout all while soaking in the scenery.