Its the time of year when winter sports are in fashion, and yet many people chose to stay on their sitting-room sofas rather than go out and get some exercise. The main reason why many choose to stay sedentary during this icy season is because the cold and darkness are not exactly motivating, and this is exactly why people put on a few extra pounds over the period of November to February. To remedy this, some of the worlds leading physicians and osteopaths have a look at the ways in which winter sports " such as skiing, snowshoeing, or ice-skating " can be beneficial to your health.

While the frosty roads are not really welcoming, being outside can be very beneficial to your health. There might not be as much sunlight available in the winter, but the rays that do reach us are very direct, and give us our necessary Vitamin D. And if you have a chance to go into the mountains for some downhill sports, the fresh mountain air can be very cleansing to those with allergy problems, asthma, or breathing difficulties due to pollution.

The sports are, of course, great for burning off those post-Christmas calories. Experts claim that, by skiing, the average 70-kilogram person loses approximately 300-400 calories per hour, and around 500-550 calories when snowshoeing. And this is all without having to break into sweat " simply going at your own pace will send them flying off.

Winter sports are obviously also a great way to get in shape. Skiing uses almost all muscle groups, but puts the most pressure on your legs " it is particularly strenuous for your knees and quad muscles. Skating affects similar muscle groups, but tends to use the hamstrings and quads more. These sports, among others, are therefore sure ways of getting your muscles working and your heart pumping again, contributing to a fitter you.

More often than not, skiers and skaters are of the recreational athlete sort than the hard-core fitness types, so taking up a winter sport this season is a fun way to get into shape again. It might be difficult to get started, people regularly leave the ice-rink or the piste feeling healthier and livelier and healthier than when they entered it.

One of the biggest health advantages that winter sports have to offer is that by exercising in the winter (a time when most people remain sedentary), is actually good for your heart. Research from the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation suggests that your chances getting of heart disease or strokes is greatly reduced by becoming more active in the winter. Snowboarding or ice-skating might therefore be fun alternatives to jogging to keep your heart in good health.

Winter sports therefore have many obvious health benefits, and have something to offer for everyone. Just be sure not to overdo it " you do not want an injury to ruin your winter holidays. Activities such as cross-country- and alpine- skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowboarding are excellent ways to get moving during this low-energy season. So grab your skis, skates, or snowboard and head for your winter destination!