Since 2017 is here and along with the rest of the world we want to stay more active, we thought this week would be a great week to talk about Cross Country Skiing. A lot of people are not familiar with what an incredible full body exercise cross-country skiing is: Not only does it get your heart rate up and use upper and lower body muscles, but it also gets you outside during the cold winter months. As most of us know, there is nothing in the world like getting fresh air!
If you’re looking to find places to cross country ski in the tri-state area, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a great reference. They have an article of the Top 10 Places to Cross-Country Ski. We thought we would share this with you! Also, they have a wonderful hike finder page on their website that can help you find a trail appropriate for cross-country skiing in your area! Cross Country skiing is wonderful exercise but we urge you to go out to the trails prepared! Here are a few tips from our pros at Ramsey Outdoor:
- Dress in layers: Remember, you may be having fun but you are also working hard! You want to make sure that you can shed layers as you work…and on the flip side if you run into a squall you want to make sure you’re prepared with some additional warm weather gear!
- Hydrate: Cross-country skiing is hard work – don’t forget to hydrate. Sometimes in the cold weather it is easy to forget that you are sweating and needing to re-up your water supply. Whether you bring a small water bottle or a camelback hydration system, don’t forget to hydrate!
- Phone a friend: If you can’t find someone to go with you (we always encourage you to go with another person) make sure someone knows where you are or that you have communication with the outside world….. JUST IN CASE you need help.
- Fight the glare: Whether you use goggles or sunglasses, make sure to protect your eyes! The glare of the sun off the snow can be blinding and impede on your ability to stay on the trail or see where you’re going. Don’t leave home without your sunglasses.
As always, Ramsey Outdoor’s employees have great tips and suggestions for any outdoor activity in any season. Stop in to talk to us about a winter activity that you’re considering or visit our website.
Before you know it, you will be enjoying a cross country ski adventure, working on your functional health through fitness, and enjoying all that the great outdoors has to offer!
