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that surrounds your internal organs. This is the fat that can cause heart disease and other health problems.

Let's explore the different forms of winter exercise.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoe enthusiasts tell us "if you can walk, you can snowshoe." It can burn over 1000 calories per hour, making it an excellent form of winter fitness.

Nordic Skiing

Depending on your weight, the intensity of your skiing, and whether or not you choose to ski hills, cross country skiing may burn between 400 and 1400 calories per hour. Since cross-country skiing involves a simultaneous use of the arms and legs, many exercise physiologists consider it to be one of the best forms of aerobic exercise.

Downhill Skiing

Very few sports can provide that same sort of thrill, excitement and challenge you can experience through downhill skiing. While the learning curve might be steep, mastering the required skills is deeply satisfying.

Snowboarding

Snowboa rding is a sport that was once in the exclusive domain of the younger generation.
However, in recent years, it has begun to gain popularity with the over 40 crowd. Some even claim that it is easier on the knees. Many love the soft, comfy boots, which are a welcome relief from the stiff plastic boots worn by alpine skiers.

Winter Running and Hiking

New types of add-ons can be put on your running shoes to prevent slippage on ice.

Getting Started

Your choice of winter outdoor exercise will be determined by the following factors:

*What you like to do

*How much money you'd like to spend

*How much you want to travel

Once you've made a decision, be sure to dress according to the needs of your activity. For example, skiing and snowboarding will require additional layers of clothing, whereas Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, running and cross country skiing will require less.
For skiing and snowboarding, be sure to take a lesson with a qualified instructor.

Don't let winter doldrums destroy your workouts. Come into the light, and take your program outside.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Marie Mercer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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