by Jess Evans
January, 21 2019
I know many of us are getting some real winter weather this January… like snow. If Winter is going to be cold, as it often is, it is better with snow. And if we have snow, we have some awesome winter sports to partake in. I am not a down hill skier, but I love the snow. Now that we finally have snow in the Colorado Front Range, I am snow shoeing and cross country skiing nearly every day. It is amazing how many miles I can get on 40 acres when I weave around slopes and streams. Hours of fun!
When it is cold, windy, and dry, I grumble about going out for a run or even worse, a bike ride. But when it is cold and windy and snow is on the ground, I can barely wait to get out. I pile on the clothes. Two layers of pants, wool socks, gaiters, coat, windbreaker, gloves, buff, hat, sunglasses, and a hanky to take care of those runny nose issues. I do not worry about being over dressed, because I am not moving fast enough to generate a lot of sweat. Then I am out for at least an hour trudging or skiing through the snow. My body is warm and my face is cold, the perfect combination.
When skiing, I glide down the gentle slopes and dig in to climb up the hills. On steeper short hills, I will walk sideways up them. I am not that good of a skier. While snow shoeing, I sink in just a little in the deep snow. As I lift my leg high to take another step, clumps of snow fly off my snow shoes and hit the back of my legs. With each step the snow adds struggle but delight. When the moon rises, I continue on my path with the snow glistening in the moonlight. I may hear a coyote or owl in the distance, smiling with the knowledge that I am out in nature enjoying winter.
Once winter snow arrives, make snow sports part of your training routine. You truly get to enjoy winter, and winter training is a lot better.
