6 surprising health benefits of cold-weather sports

Winter sports not only provide thrills and fun memories, they keep you active during the typically lazier winter, not only making the season more memorable, but also giving you these six health benefits.

Many don't get enough sun in the winter. Aside from losing your killer tan, it can affect your health and well-being.

• A bit of sunlight on your face during the cold winter months helps your body produce vitamin D, which is important for strong bones and heart health.
• Remember: even in the winter months, use a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15.

Cardiovascular exercise during the winter is actually more effective in training the body, which teaches your body to take in oxygen more efficiently.

Outdoor winter sports help your body to burn more fat. This is because your body must work harder in cold weather to maintain homoeostasis, which keeps the inner workings of the body stable.

Research indicates that exercising regularly in cold weather boosts the immune system. The theory is that the cold air acts as a stressor on the body, which makes the immune system work harder.

Outdoor cold weather sports build endurance. This occurs if you practice these sports a few times a week. Most winter sports also build agility and flexibility in the lower half of your body.

Endorphins released during the physical activity improve your mood by making your feel more content.

• The exposure to the sun also helps lessen the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of melancholy brought on by shorter hours of daylight in the winter.

Cold weather sports are a great way to stay in shape and to keep active during the winter months, and they provide year-round health benefits. Winter sports are suitable for all members of a family, which makes them a great way to have fun together.