For those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere the time is soon approaching when winter sporting holidays come to mind. Astronomically speaking the northern hemisphere winter starts on the winter solstice (21st or 22nd December) and ends on the Equinox (21st or 22nd March).
Many sports are played in winter, but are not usually associated as a winter sport. For example both the American NFL and the British football (soccer) seasons start in autumn and carry on through to the following year, right through the winter period.
When thinking of winter sports we conjure up a picture of snow. For many the most common winter sport is skiing. But there are many others including sledging, ice-skating and snow boarding. For most a winter sporting holiday is a chance to get away and have some fun. For competitors in the winter Olympics held every four years (next in 2010 in Canada) it is a chance to be seen as the best at their sport.
It may seem an obvious statement, but to enjoy winter sports you need snow. There are a number of areas around the world renown for their winter sporting facilities. But for some who live where winter brings snowfall, the local hillside and a sledge is all that is needed for winter fun.
Wherever winter sports are practiced one thing is certain – the need to wear warm clothing. Whether it is designer gear for the piste or just a thick jumper for the local park the aim is still the same – keep warm!