In the mountains in winter, all the physical and psychological benefits of outdoor activities - Lifestyle

Physical activity is a good habit that should never be lost, especially among children and teenagers who, during the year, between lessons to follow and homework to do, are increasingly sedentary.

In this

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Dolomiti Paganella, together with the personal trainer Alex Mottes and the sports psychologist Erika Panizza, explains the benefits of outdoor activities and shares some tips to bring children and teenagers closer to winter sports. 

Compared to when it is carried out indoors in gyms or schools, outdoor physical activity, especially if in the middle of nature and away from smog and pollution, contributes more to improving cardiovascular functions, strengthening the respiratory system and muscle oxygenation.

Another powerful ally is the sun, which helps increase vitamin D levels, very important for the immune system.

In addition to the physical benefits there are psychological ones.

Motor activity, with the release of endorphins, in fact promotes a good mood and helps reduce anxiety levels.

Furthermore, if practiced in the open air and in the countryside, the benefits are greater thanks to sun exposure, healthy air and contact with nature, which has both chromotherapy and balsamic effects.

“Here, speaking of woods, we recall the Parco del Respiro in Fai della Paganella where, even in winter, thanks to the evergreen conifers, shinrin-yoku or 'forest bathing' is practiced, an activity also suitable for children and guys”, explains the Psychologist Erika Panizza.

it has significant effects on health and psychophysical well-being: it improves mood and has positive effects on the cardio-respiratory side and, in general, on the psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrine system". The most suitable winter outdoor activities for

"There isn't one sport that's better than the other", explains personal trainer Alex Mottes. sport should remain, at least until adolescence, primarily a game, a pleasure and a diversion for the child”.

“Any activity practiced is positive, better if chosen by the child and to choose you must first try it”, adds Dr. Panizza.

”You will be spoiled for choice among the winter sports offer: alpine skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, walking with snowshoes to discover the most hidden corners, ice skating, sledding, as well as activities in contact with animals, which also help to stimulate psychic and social development".  

For parents who want to introduce their children to skiing, it is advisable to

Those who want to spend time in nature can, for example, try their hand at a simple, peaceful walk within everyone's reach or play in the snow in the baby parks along the slopes.

Among children, there is an impoverishment of functional, coordination and conditional abilities (such as strength, speed and resistance) due to the absence of spontaneous practice.

"To encourage motivation in the youngest, it is important to ward off boredom and the mountain environment easily banishes it with its intrinsic variability and with the numerous playful proposals on the snow", explains the Psychologist.

“Last but not least, it is essential

, giving them positive feedback, both verbal and non-verbal.

A smile is often enough." 

“Socialization and the friendships that are established while playing a sport are two of the most important beneficial effects of doing physical activity.

This is why the presence of peers is essential for children and teenagers to practice a healthy activity and carry it forward over time, turning it into a habit”, explains Alex Mottes.

“The presence of parents, especially for younger children, is essential, as they grow up it is equally important that they have meaningful experiences by detaching themselves from mum and dad and entrusting themselves to qualified people such as ski instructors, alpine guides and teachers, with whom they can be left free to have fun in groups”, added Erika Panizza.

“Peers, on the other hand, become more and more important with age, especially from 8 years onwards.

At that point, it is good for children and teenagers to experience moments and new and exciting adventures independently from their parents.

There will be the rest of the day to spend with family and to share the unique experiences that the mountain offers.

Let's remember that emotions are contagious!”.