The decision we make to start a ski vacation shouldn’t be taken lightly, but it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, and there’s no need to drag the family halfway around the world to visit some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet.

The perception of being half cold and lugging around a mountain of gear is shattered by the reality of plenty of sun, wearing the right clothes, and being able to rent top-class skis and boots at the resorts if you want to travel light. The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment you get from a ski vacation is second to none and provides a positive outlook on life.

For ski enthusiasts, there is nothing more exciting than a change of scenery, time away from work and the feeling of freedom from the monotony of work life that comes from skiing with nature. Skiing comes with so many health benefits that it checks the “great for you” box in so many ways. One of the things I love about skiing vacations is that it’s something the whole family can do together or I can do alone. And for me, nothing beats a winter ski holiday as an escape away from the dreary, wet, windy and dark days and nights of the UK. Summer ski vacations are just as fun and can prepare me physically and mentally for the upcoming winter months.

As someone who likes to try to stay fit, I love the hours and days I spend spinning up and down the sunny and snowy slopes. I know this works most of the major muscle groups to provide a well-rounded workout, helping me build strength and endurance. It can take me a whole week in the gym to get the same workout that a day on the slopes gives me. Not only that, but as someone who hates cardio work at the gym, skiing makes my heart beat faster and provides a fun cardio workout that I just wouldn’t get at the gym. Especially if I combine it with some cross-country skiing and go for a walk.

Skiing improves fitness and endurance. Imagine a month on the slopes – wow, he would have had muscles like Arnie! Unfortunately, my ski holidays do not last more than a week. But in that week, I can be noticeably fitter, healthier and happier, skiing really ticks all the health boxes. When it comes to working hard and having fun, skiing is one of the best sports you can do.

I have listed some of the health benefits of skiing below to help you decide if a ski vacation is for you:

* Improves mood: increases happiness and general well-being, including physical and mental health.

* Encourages social interaction: People naturally socialize as part of the skiing experience.

* Promotes deep sleep: engages the entire body to achieve a good night’s sleep.

* Promotes healthy eating habits – naturally be more mindful of eating the right fuel, more protein, healthy fats, less sugar, more fruits and vegetables.

* Skiing improves proprioception: the ability to feel the position of different parts of the body and their movements.

* Improves balance and coordination: you need to be aware of the slight movements and positions of your body.

* Strengthens bones and joints: strengthens the knees and the bones become stronger through the impact of weight on the legs.

* Strengthens lower body muscles: Works inner and outer thighs, hamstrings, quads, and glutes.

* Improves flexibility: Increasing flexibility helps prevent muscle strains and sprains.

* Increases cardiovascular endurance – works the heart and lungs and burns calories helping to lose weight.

* Improves balance and core strength – challenges your balance and agility and helps build that six pack.

For me, skiing is one of those activities that anyone of any ability can do and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby to stay fit and healthy or considering taking up a new sport to get out of mischief, skiing could be for you.

Whatever your activity or experience level, ski vacations can provide entertainment and fun for everyone.