Snowshoeing
Walking over snow using snowshoes.
How to start
Rent snowshoes and walk a marked trail on gentle snow. Wear waterproof boots, gaiters and layers.
How to progress
Go longer and try hills.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular activity. It is similar to hiking, so our Walking category applies. The general physical activity guidance applies: the WHO recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity a week for adults.
Take care: Cold, avalanche and weather risks apply. Stay on marked trails and check forecasts.
Sources
12-week starter plan
A weekly walk.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 5.3 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Use poles.
- Dress in layers.
- Stay on marked trails.
Common mistakes
- Cotton clothing.
- Going alone.
- Ignoring avalanche warnings.
Kit and cost
Low to moderate Approximate UK prices.
- Snowshoe hire (about £10 to £20)
- Waterproof boots and gaiters
- Poles
Frequently asked questions
Is it hard?
It feels like a hike.
Do I need lessons?
No.
Is it good exercise?
It is more demanding than walking.
Good for: Heart & fitness Fun & social
Compare with similar options
| Snowshoeing | Ice Skating | Skiing (Alpine) | Snowboarding | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 90 min × 1/wk | 60 min × 1/wk | 240 min × 1/wk | 240 min × 1/wk |
| Effort | ●●○○○ | ●●○○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Low cost | Low cost | High cost | High cost |
| Equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment | Specialist kit | Specialist kit |
| Impact | Low impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Some fitness | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |