As soon as the leaves start to fall, many people begin to count the days until a healthy snowfall will open up our favorite winter playgrounds.
Whether you will be hitting the slopes on skis, a snowboard or sled, the sooner you begin prepping your body for winter sports, the more you’ll enjoy making your first turns and the longer you’ll be able to ride on your first big powder day. Here are some helpful and fun approaches to ensure that you can give your all on the hill:
Spin those wheels!
Before the snow hits, get out on your bike for a few good rides. Cycling can help tune up key muscle groups. It’s a great cardiovascular exercise and can be a great way to enjoy the last crisp days of fall.
Limber up!
Stretching is essential for good riding. A limber body will add to the longevity of your riding and skiing, help with recovery time and will help you bounce right back when you take that first tumble of the season. Practicing yoga can help train your muscles, build core strength and increase flexibility. Here are a few helpful poses geared specifically towards winter sports.
Viva la resistance!
Resistance and core training will give you a legitimate leg-up on your season. Here is a comprehensive list of exercises that are sure to give you the edge you need.
Eat!
Your diet can really enhance your experience on the hill. It can also put the breaks on an amazing blue-bird day if you aren’t eating right. You are burning calories just keeping warm while you are on the mountain, so you really need to maintain a steady flow of nutrients and carbohydrates throughout the day. Here are some surefire methods to keep your energy up while you train and ski.