If you’re a hardcore runner and you’re looking for a good cross training exercise to do in the winter, try snowshoeing. It uses 50% more energy than running on trails, so it’s a perfect alternative to your regular running routine. A normal snowshoe workout burns about 600 calories an hour. That alone should be a good reason to take up snowshoeing for runners!
Though snowshoeing has been around for thousands of years, it’s just now catching on with a new generation of winter sport enthusiasts. In fact, it’s one of the fastest growing winter sports around. About 40% of snowshoers are women and that number is slowly increasing.
Snowshoeing has less risk of injury than regular running and is easy to learn. Running on snow is better on the joints than trail running since the impact of your step is less.
The snowshoes come in 3 different types, depending on what kind of workout you will be doing. The snowshoes can be a little expensive, depending on the type of shoe you get. On the low end they run about $100 and on the high end they can go for as much as $300 or more.
Recreational hiking snowshoes are good for beginners. If you’re more experienced, then try a pair of hiking/backpacking snowshoes. Snowshoes for aerobic fitness are sleek and durable for those who want more of a fitness workout.
Many mountains are now renting snowshoes for hikers and runners who want a unique and challenging workout. Snowshoers say they feel like walking or running in sand.
People who snowshoe say the calm and peacefullness of snowshoeing during or after a fresh snowfall is priceless. It’s that deep, untouched powder snow that you want to find, which is usually off the beaten track. That’s why you might want to go with a friend or at least bring a GPS device to help you navigate through the backcountry.
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