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Do’s and don’ts of snowshoeing

Those who live in northern areas can only imagine what it would be like to run on the dry ground all year long. You might view completing a run without falling down as an accomplishment if you spend months either tethered to a treadmill or struggling through snow and mud while dodging ice patches. Yet there is a better approach!

The compact, lightweight snowshoes designed exclusively for running are already well-known to many runners in snowy regions. While that’s a fantastic alternative for a winter workout, in this post, we delve in-depth into the other kind of snowshoes Canada —the very large, heavy hiking types used for venturing far into the backcountry. There are mens snowshoes and women’s snowshoes. Snowshoes on sale are the best choice.

We combed the literature and spoke with two snowshoeing authorities to understand more about the advantages of this kind of snowshoeing. What we discovered strongly persuaded us that snowshoeing is a fantastic winter workout option for runners. Here is all the information you require.

Reasons to Try Snowshoeing

Starting off, research demonstrates that snowshoeing is an excellent aerobic workout, both in terms of increased VO2 Max and calorie burn. In fact, one study found that snowshoeing across level or uneven terrain caused average heart rates to range between 75 and 84 percent of maximum.

Another benefit was mentioned by Sandy Gregorich, who instructs snowshoeing at Cornell Outdoor Education. It provides for pretty wonderful cross training because it doesn’t strain the body as much as running does, according to Gregorich. Basically, you may achieve the same or even larger anaerobic advantages of running with a lot less impact and effort.

Of course, there are numerous other ways in which snowshoeing is safer than jogging. Running in loose snow or on ice is a bad idea when the footing is poor, according to Gregorich. “Snowshoes prevent slipping. It’s such a terrific way to access the trails, and the learning curve is a lot lower than with cross-country skiing.”

DO: Prioritize safety.

One of the most lovely and tranquil ways to spend a winter day is by snowshoeing into isolated regions. However, there are certain inherent risks in such a context as well. Even if you visit a place you have been to previously in the summer, Moore warns that it can change significantly in the winter. If you don’t intend to go somewhere where paths are patrolled and cleared of travelers each day, always let someone know where you’re going. The hiker’s “10 Essentials” are items you should always have with you in case you become stranded. Water is extremely vital to carry and consume in large quantities.

DO NOT: Attempt to match your running mileage.

When you first attempt something new, you should be a little cautious. Jumping right in and believing you can run as many miles on snowshoes as you can is simply not a wise training strategy, according to Gregorich. Moore advises concentrating on training minutes rather than kilometers as your pace will be much slower even though your effort level may be similar to running.

DO: Wear layers that are wicking.

It’s crucial to wear layers that are wicking for any outdoor exercise in chilly weather. A decent general rule of thumb is to start with a technical T-shirt then add zipped shirts and jackets on top of that. You’ll want to experiment with fabric kinds, thermal ratings, and other considerations. In this manner, you may open up and ventilate if you are warm without having to stop and remove all of your clothing. It’s crucial to consider your entire body rather than simply the center of it.

Don’t overdress.

Despite the fact that you’ll be outside in the cold, you shouldn’t dress too warmly. I advise my pupils to remove a layer if they are already warm before class even starts, according to Moore. Snowshoeing is hot and sweaty, so dress in layers and be prepared to shed them, advised Gregorich. You run a double risk of hypothermia and dehydration if you perspire excessively because damp clothes increase this risk.

DO: Begin on well-maintained or hard-packed trails.

While carving a trail through the forest may sound romantic, it’s not the best method to become proficient at snowshoeing. Until you are comfortable with the mechanics and your muscles are prepared for a greater test, practice on compacted or groomed trails. Simply show consideration for other users and avoid snowshoeing on ski-only trails.

DON’T: Increase Mileage Too Rapidly

You should start slowly and add miles even more gradually, advises Gregorich. Even after you’ve gained some experience, resist the need to become overconfident and raise your distance too rapidly. Running out of energy while snowshoeing could be disastrous because the activity requires so much energy and you’re out in potentially hazardous situations. Exercise progressions should always be cautious, with safety coming first.

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