- Exercise is one of the most important controllable factors in keeping our brains and bodies healthy. Research has shown that regular exercise may drop your risk of developing dementia! That’s a huge advantage. When I ask patients how much exercise they do, many say “Not as much as I should”. As a life-long exerciser and athlete, I will tell you that exercise has to be a consistent habit. And it has to be fun. Nobody wants to spend a miserable 30 minutes doing something they hate.
That’s where cross-country skiing comes in.
- Exercise should involve cardiovascular fitness (getting your heart to beat faster and more effectively), strength and flexibility. Cross-country or Nordic skiing does all of those! Your heart and lungs get an amazing work-out. You burn calories at a rapid rate. Your arms and legs get stronger because it’s “whole body” exercise. And your flexibility improves as you reach and pull.
- Cross-country skiing gets you outside in the winter-and you stay warm!
We know that being in nature has positive effects on brain function too. Areas of brain regulation that decrease stress and promote wellness are activated when you are outside. It’s hard to go for long walks the winter without getting cold or worrying about slipping. When you are skiing, you generate plenty of heat and you’re gliding along. Even if it’s icy or snowy on the sidewalk, skiing on tracked trails is fun and safe.
- Nordic skiing is a lot safer than downhill skiing. You don’t need a helmet. Sure, you can learn how to ski on hills. But the risks of downhill skiing are much greater and even a total beginner will feel safe starting with a lesson and then getting out on a flat track and learning to glide along.
- We know that social connections and combatting loneliness help brains function better too. Even if you set out solo, you’ll likely see others on the trail and will stop to talk about the conditions. Who knows? You may end up having a mug of brain-healthy hot cholate together. Chocolate is full of flavonoids which also may help to decrease brain inflammation.
So, what are you waiting for? Even if you’ve never tried it before, rent a pair of cross-country skis, snap your boots in and you’re off! No fancy clothes, no huge expensive gear bags and easy to find a trail, right here where we live.
I hope to see you on the trails!
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AUTHOR:
Carolyn Bernstein MD FAHS
Lavine Family Distinguished Chair in Neurology
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
