This month, Falls Creek will host the Kangaroo Hoppet, a cross-country skiing event that attracts over 1,000 participants from around the world. The event comprises three courses; the elite 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, a shorter 21km course known as the Australian Birkebeiner and the “fun run” course, the 7km Joey Hoppet.

Cross country skiing is currently experiencing a huge “renaissance” worldwide as one of the best ways for men and women of all ages to exercise and keep fit. It’s these fitness benefits that keep the sport growing and growing. In Sweden this year, the comparable event to the Hoppet attracted over 60,000 competitors.

Few sports unite a lower body and upper body workout, while concurrently exercising both the "pulling" and "pushing" muscles of each area. Unlike alpine skiing, cross country is low impact, relatively easy to learn and affordable. The following list is just the beginning of the many benefits of cross country skiing.

5 proven benefits of cross country skiing:

1. It's the ultimate calorie burner, burning on average 1,122 calories per hour. As a comparison, boxing burns 816 calories per hour.

2. It's low impact and good for joint health

3. It will help improve your heart and lung capacity

4. If you're a swimmer or water lover, it's a great winter fitness alternative

5. You'll be on a natural high from being outdoors in the company of Mother Nature

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