Travel trends are constantly changing. Gone are the days when a widely accepted idea of a vacation was lounging on the beach for sun-lovers or being cooped up in a cabin in snowy mountains. Research shows that travellers are now more than ever drawn to adventure-oriented holidays.
Snow holidays can be an enriching experience for both parents and kids. Skiing is a sport that kids can learn at a young age and continue doing well into adulthood. Whether your kids are new to skiing or are seasoned skiers, there are many health benefits – both physical and mental.
The Physical Benefits of Skiing
Improves cardiovascular endurance and health
Skiing is a physical exercise that helps with staying in shape and maintaining fitness. Being on their feet and sliding down those steep slopes will improve your kids’ heart rate and help burn calories. According to Bethany Garner of Ski Club of Great Britain, “skiing is good for you because it works the major muscle groups. Walk up the slope rather than using the ski lift – this really works out the heart and lungs, making it a good overall workout.”
Strengthens lower-body muscles
If you have ever tried skiing even once, you know just how much balance and coordination is required. Kids have to use their core muscles to support the upper body and their leg muscles to balance on the skis. This helps improve their balance and coordination.
Good for bones and joints
The constant tension placed on knees, ankles and feet helps strengthen legs, which reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis.
The Psychological Benefits of Skiing
Appreciation of the outdoors
Being outdoors is a great way to escape from the stressors of life; being surrounded by nature is a good mood-enhancer. Club Med Pragelato Vialattea, located in the heart of the second-largest ski area in Europe- La Vialattea is a ski fanatic’s dream. Tucked away in a beautifully preserved natural site in the Piedmont region of Italy, Pragelato Vialattea is perfect for winter family holidays (and includes ski lessons for adults and kids, as part of the holiday package!).
Improves proprioception
Defined as a person’s ability to feel the position of different parts of the body, proprioception is an integral part of skiing. The coordination and balance involved in skiing requires a lot of mental focus resulting in improved mental consciousness of body parts.
Improves confidence and encourages bonding
Skiing is not an easy sport and can be quite intimidating for first-timers. After many failed attempts, seeing your little ones finally soaring down a snow-covered slope without any help will bring delight.
With all the benefits of skiing, your next vacation should absolutely be a snow holiday.
by Club Med
