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Stuff About Snowshoeing...

Thursday, 23 January 2014 06:10

By Tim Edwards (usatriathlon.org)

Runners and triathletes are always looking to increase their strength during the offseason so they can improve their performance during the competition season. One of the best ways to do so is to strap on a pair of snowshoes.  Many different training intensity zones can be worked while on snowshoes and you will be building strength the whole time. Since snowshoeing uses the same leg muscles as running, it is definitely applicable when it comes time to hit the trail or the road. Tackling hills and surging the pace while running are based on the amount of strength you have in your legs. Courses that have many twists and turns also require strength to accelerate out of the corners and get back up to speed.
Snowshoeing is easy to gear up for. For about a hundred dollars, you can get a fully functional set of snowshoes. Racing style snowshoes are more expensive but are...

lighter weight, narrower and more aggressive. Some of the winter clothing that runners use in the northern climates works well for snowshoeing. One difference between the disciplines is that snowshoeing kicks up a “rooster tail” of snow behind you and having some sort of nylon or water resistant pants and jacket will keep you dry and happy. Water resistant gloves are also handy in case you put your hand down in the snow at some point of the workout. As with any winter sport, keeping dry is the key to staying warm. Make sure all your clothing is non-cotton and wicks the sweat away from your skin. READ MORE