Does Skiing Burn Calories?

Written By Jim Duncombe

If you’ve ever wondered does skiing burn calories and whether skiing counts as a real workout, the short answer is yes — but there’s a twist.

🏂 Beginners Burn More

When you’re a beginner skier, your body works harder even in a ski lesson. You’re learning how to balance, stop, and stay upright, which takes constant effort. That means you’re engaging more muscles and burning more calories — even if it doesn’t feel like a traditional workout.

⛷️ Experience Equals Efficiency

We know from years as a ski school your technique improves, your movements become smoother and more efficient. You use less energy to ski well, so the better you get, the fewer calories you burn. That’s not a bad thing — it just means your body has adapted.

💪 Strength Over Cardio

Skiing isn’t a high-intensity cardio workout. You’re not gasping for breath like during a run or HIIT session. But it’s still demanding. Skiing builds:

  • Lower body strength (quads, glutes, calves)

  • Core stability

  • Balance and coordination

After a few hours on the slopes, your legs will definitely feel it.

🎿 Skiing = Functional Fitness

Skiing blends power, precision, and endurance. It’s a fun, full-body workout that gets you outside and moving — especially great if you're not a fan of the gym.

TL;DR:

  • Beginners burn more calories than experienced skiers

  • Skiing builds strength, coordination, and balance

  • It’s a fun way to stay active in winter

Want to stay fit and enjoy the mountains? Skiing might be your new favourite way to work out.

Jim Duncombe
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