Snowshoe hiking and running as a workout (aka snowshoe fitness) have become recognized winter sports here in B.C. over the past decade. There are special clinics, numerous races, as well as fitness class - all on snowshoes. You may wonder how you could power hike, let alone run, on those oversized tennis rackets.
The snowshoe has come a long way the past 20 years. They are now made from lightweight metal or carbon fibre with asymmetrical designs to allow for easier hiking and running. Venture up to Dakota Ridge and you will see men, women and children prancing around on these gems while getting excellent workouts.
Research tells us that snowshoeing actually burns more calories than hiking and/or running on flat surfaces. In fact, completing a 10-kilometre course on snowshoes is equal in energy output to completing a half-marathon on the road. The reason? The snow provides excellent resistance and offers a friendly, low-impact surface resulting in fewer injuries.
The best part about snowshoe fitness? It is the most fun you will have getting your heart rate up. Running and jumping through fresh powder makes us feel like children again, when we could not get enough of being outside in the snow.
There are currently four stores on the Coast that rent out snowshoes for under $20 per day: Alpha Adventures, Marine and Mountain Outfitters, Source for Sports and Off the Edge Adventure Sports. And if you are looking for a really fun way to spend your Saturday, check out the inaugural Off the Edge Snowshoe Challenge tomorrow (Saturday) at noon on Dakota Ridge. Details are available at www.offtheedge.org.
