Why Ski?
Cross-country skiing is the safest, most enjoyable, and effective way for Alaskans to stay fit during the winter months. Few activities improve cardiovascular fitness more than cross-country skiing, and even fewer provide as complete an “all body” workout. In addition to unparalleled fitness benefits, cross-country skiing is nearly free of the injury potential to muscles and joints that are inherent dangers of in-door running, soccer, and other sports. In fact, the conditioning program used by the Bartlett Nordic Ski Team, which includes moderate amounts of running and weight lifting, can help athletes avoid injuries in spring, summer, and fall sports by conditioning the muscles and joints most prone to injury. Ski team members also enter their spring sports in great shape after a winter of skiing, lifting and running.
But conditioning aside, skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter months in Alaska. Students who ski in high school gain high levels of expertise in a sport they can share with their families and enjoy for a lifetime. Skiing provides them with a valuable physical outlet they can use to remain happy and healthy throughout Anchorage’s dark winter months.