Snowshoeing
by Armand Tecco, M.Ed.

Ask just about anyone who snowshoes and they'll tell you: "If you can walk, you can snowshoe." Just like walking, snowshoeing is a low-impact, aerobic activity that can be done at your own pace, whether you are a kid or an older adult.

According to Tubbs Snowshoe Company, a manufacturer of snowshoes based in Stowe, Vt, the number of snowshoeing enthusiasts has jumped from 40,000 in 1994 to 1.2 million people in 1999. It may just be the fastest growing winter sport!

Perhaps part of snowshoeing's popularity is due to its level of safety. According to Claire Walter, author of Snowshoeing Colorado (Fulcrum Press), snowshoeing injuries are not even an issue. Falls tend to be gentle, and muscles and joints aren't susceptible to overuse or repetitive motion problems because every step and stride is different.

Climbing during a snowshoe excursion burns between 450 and 550 calories per hour - and up to 1,000 calories an hour during vigorous ascents up steep, powdery slopes.

Here are some tips to help you snowshoe correctly:

• Walk a bit wider apart than normal so you don't step on your snowshoes or kick the frame of your forward foot as your back one passes it.

• When breaking trail, walk in a single line behind the leader's trail. When it's your turn to lead take consistent, even steps that are easy for the others to follow.

• When descending, keep your weight over your heels as much as possible and keep your knees slightly bent. If the snow is firm or the slope is steep, be sure that the talons are biting firmly into the surface.

• To climb a slope, kick the front of your snowshoe into the snow and press down to compact it into a step and prevent backsliding. Always make sure that each new step is sufficiently above the last one.

• Edging is an important technique for handling slopes. Kick the side of the shoe into the hillside, engaging the cleats. Swing the boot heel hard towards the uphill slope, then stomp down securing the snowshoe edge in the slope. Snowshoe poles can help propel you forward and maintain your balance.

• For safety reasons, it is best not to snowshoe alone. Take along a first aid kit, food and water, a compass and trail map, and binoculars. Always check the weather forecast prior to leaving. Make sure everyone in your group is comfortable with the pace and demands of the trail. Be conservative on your first snowshoe outing - don't overestimate how far or how fast you can go. Wear layers of clothing so that you can adjust to temperature fluctuations.

• As with any physical activity, check with your physician first if you are unsure of your ability to participate. Certain medical conditions may limit that ability.

Disclaimer:
The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website is for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician.