6 health benefits of cold weather sports

Winter sports offer not only thrills and fun memories, but also a way to stay active during the typically lazier winter months. Here are 6 health benefits that you can enjoy by participating in cold weather sports.

Many people don't get enough sun in the winter. Losing their summer tan is a concern for some, but more importantly, a lack of sun can affect your health and well being. A bit of sunlight on your face during the cold winter months – for example, when you're out skiing – helps your body produce Vitamin D, which is important for strong bones and heart health. But when you do head outdoors, remember to protect your skin with sunscreen even during the winter months.

Cardiovascular exercise during the winter is more effective in training your body to take in oxygen more efficiently. For example, some research suggests that running in the cold can help runners achieve a significant boost in their running speed.

Outdoor winter sports help your body burn more fat. This is because your body must work harder in cold weather to maintain homeostasis, which keeps the inner workings of your body stable.

Some research indicates that exercising regularly in cold weather boosts the immune system. The theory is that the cold air acts as a stressor on the body, which makes the immune system works harder.

Outdoor cold weather sports build endurance, especially if you do these sports a few times a week. Most winter sports also build agility and flexibility in the lower half of your body.

Playing winter sports can improve your mood, in part due to the release of endorphins during physical activity. Exposure to the sun also helps to lessen the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a form of melancholy brought on by the fewer hours of daylight during the winter.

Cold weather sports are a great way to stay in shape and keep active during the winter months, and they provide year-round health benefits. Best of all, winter sports can be done by all members of a family, making them a great way to have fun together.