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Benefits of Skiing

North Carolina skiing offers fun, fitness, relaxation

BEECH MOUNTAIN, N.C. -As winter temperatures reach yearly lows, exercise often takes a vacation. According to the American Heart Association, this dangerous trend is prevalent in 28 percent of American adults-and is one of the top risk factors for coronary heart disease and heart attack.

But cold, snowy weather doesn't have to mean putting your health on a shelf. In fact, skiing and snow boarding are exciting, exhilarating, and-above all-good for you.

Ski Beech-with 15 ski runs, freestyle snowboard terrain and an ice skating rink-hosts thousands of winter enthusiasts at its resort each season. "When racing down the mountain, skiers and snowboarders can't really focus on workweek anxiety or everyday stress," says Gil Adams, Ski Beech marketing director. "And they're usually having so much fun they don't realize they're burning almost 400 calories an hour."

The Mayo Foundation for Medical Research maintains that downhill skiing burns nearly 500 calories an hour. That's about the same as hiking or swimming.

Like any other cardiovascular workout, however, skiing and snowboarding aren't for the unprepared. The American Council on Exercise recommends at least five to 10 minutes of stretching and warm-up exercises prior to any semi-strenuous activity. This helps prevent injuries and soreness by improving the elasticity of your muscles and increases your core body temperature, enabling more efficient calorie burning.

It's also important to take necessary precautions. "Dehydration can sneak up on you in the snow, so water is definitely a necessity," says Adams. "And just because it's cloudy outside doesn't mean you aren't at risk of sunburn. Skiers should be sure to cover all exposed skin with adequate sunscreen."

Ski Beech and other North Carolina ski resorts offers several very affordable ways to enjoy winter sports making it a great choice for maintaining and building one's fitness level. Daily specials throughout the week, and discounts for groups are available by visiting www.skibeech.com or www.skinc.com. Lodging specials are available at www.soakupthesnow.com.

Winter doesn't have to mean staying inside, holding the couch down. Get out, get healthy, and-by all means-have some fun.

Contact: Gil Adams, Ski Beech Marketing Director, 800-438-2093