“Put your front foot down before you pick your back one up” was the humorous advice my English friend, Peter, gave to a person new to snowshoeing who had joined our outdoor group. With all group members over 65, and several in their early eighties, we were already defying statistics in terms of activity level, flexibility and strength on our weekly snowshoe adventures. Picking our feet up was not a problem, whether hiking in summer or snowshoeing in winter, and the lack of major physical illnesses, few falls, and pretty good memory skills among the group showed that embracing the “use it or you will lose it” dictum of weekly vigorous activity does have impressive results.
SNOWSHOEING IS REAL EXERCISE
Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport in North America and it is easy to see why. Seniors, athletes, children and adolescents can all enjoy the activity at their own level of fitness and speed. Snowshoeing can help you gradually increase your fitness level and is an excellent cross-training activity. Some activity statistics related to snowshoeing credit 298 calories burned by an average 70kg (155lb) adult doing snowshoeing for 30 minutes – similar to rock-climbing or ice skating for the same amount of time.
A study completed by the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse demonstrated that snowshoeing at an average speed of three miles (4.8km) per hour is similar to running at six mph (9.7km) and cross-country skiing at eight mph (13km). It burns up twice the number of calories as walking for the same time. The health benefits of snowshoeing are so positive that the American Heart Association approves it as a heart-strengthening aerobic activity.
SNOWSHOEING IS FOR EVERYONE
For many seniors, snowshoeing is a transition from downhill or cross-country skiing to an alternate winter activity where they feel less anxious about a fall and broken bones. It is low impact and, with the use of poles, provides the same upper and lower body workout as Nordic walking. There is time to talk to companions, take photographs, eat a gourmet picnic lunch, and identify birds and animal tracks in the snow. Staying warm is easy and the cost of equipment fits with reduced retirement incomes.
Snowshoeing is an activity that provides opportunities for that precious and elusive family quality time. It can be a multi-generational adventure with fun for everyone, all the while participating in a healthy outdoor activity. Babies in a backpack carrier can be easily included in warm spring outings, while toddlers can be transported in a toboggan. Even reluctant teenagers can be encouraged to go on a family expedition if their friends can come along and lots of food is provided at all stages of the trip.
But what about the senior downhill skiers who may still be adrenalin junkies – will they ever snowshoe? For those who seek speed, there are snowshoe races and even world snowshoe competitions. Snowshoe Canada hopes to have snowshoe races as an Olympic event at some time in the future. And perhaps even those who spend most of their time seeking the next speed thrill may listen to experts who suggest that spending quiet and contemplative time in nature helps improve every aspect of one’s life.
So, why wait? Health benefits and social connections, plus the enjoyment gained from snowshoeing are evident. Rent a pair of snowshoes and be the first to take your friends on a new adventure every weekend. Remember – there is no time like snow time!
Aileen Stalker (with Tony Keen, maps and photographs) is the author of Snowshoe Trails in Southwestern British Columbia, Rocky Mountain Books, 2016, and an active senior.
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