MAGAZINE. Of all the physical activities that it is possible to practice in winter, snowshoeing is certainly one of the most accessible. You just need to choose the right clothes and equip yourself with a pair of snowshoes and presto! The beautiful white snow is yours!
Snowshoeing can be practiced both by people who want to get back in shape and reconnect with the cold season, and by those who exercise on a regular basis. Snowshoeing can then become an alternative training to a session of running, cross-country skiing or a mountain hike, for example.
“The benefits of snowshoeing are numerous,” communicates Audrey Vallière, franchisee of Cardio plein air in Drummondville. In addition to improving muscle tone by calling on the deep muscles, the activity improves balance by strengthening stabilizing muscles, including those of the abdominal belt. This is because the exercise is usually done on uneven surfaces. Moreover, the more powdered the snow, the more physically demanding the exercise ”.
Obviously, the racket also has a positive impact on cardiovascular capacity and it helps increase endurance for those who choose it.
“Being outside also brings many benefits. Getting fresh air improves oxygenation, reduces stress, strengthens the immune system and breaks the routine. This is especially important in the context where many people are currently teleworking. And when you manage to train in broad daylight, you also get your fill of vitamins D, ”adds Ms. Vallière.
With or without sticks
As with nature trekking, it is possible to snowshoe with poles, but they are not essential as during a Nordic walking activity, for example.
“The poles can be used for those who need a support for balance. In the mountains or on slopes, it can help, but they are not compulsory. It’s a matter of preference, ”advises Audrey Vallière, who has been a coach since 2016.
Podcasts
For people who wish to benefit from invaluable advice during their snowshoe outings, the Quebec company Cardio plein air has innovated in recent months by launching training podcasts. Among other things, she offers the cardioraquette course, i.e. interval training (effort-walking) followed by a weight training section with an elastic band then a return to calm. “We launched this last fall because of the pandemic. Our main clientele being people who train outdoors, it was hard to think of bringing them indoors for virtual training, in front of a screen. Podcasts are popular with people because they are free to go and work out whenever they want. These are adaptable programs, so they are aimed at beginners, intermediates as well as seasoned athletes ”, presents the 36-year-old entrepreneur. About 30 podcasts, lasting one hour, are available by subscription. The company also offers live workouts, through the Zoom app. A new session will start on February 15 (www.cardiopleinair.ca).
Whether you opt for snowshoeing or another sport, the important thing is to go according to your tastes and respecting your abilities. Being active will always be a good way to live a healthy life and … keep your spirits up!
Tips for dressing well
How to dress to go snowshoeing? It’s not easy to freak out, especially in winter. A little trick is to note the outside temperature and add 10 degrees Celsius. For example, if the mercury reads -15 degrees Celsius with the wind factor, you should dress as if it is -5 degrees Celsius outside. As in cross-country skiing or jogging, it is necessary to privilege clothing by multiple layers, that is to say a garment in merino wool (if available), a sweater of training then a coat suitable for sports outside. Obviously, lined pants, toque, neck warmer and mittens are essential. Snowshoeing is a cardiovascular sport, so remember that the body will warm up quickly… even if it is winter.
Where to snowshoe?
-The Plain and the sanctuary at Saint-Majorique-de-Grantham
-The Drummond Forest in the Saint-Joachim-de-Courval sector
-The Boisé de la Marconi
-The Voltigeurs park (be careful not to encroach on the cross-country ski trails)
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