Stay in shape this summer and have fun too!
My friend and Pilates fitness instructor, Lisa Mercer, has her own blog on fitness and staying in shape for skiing. I know ski season just finished, but many of the things you do in the summer will help to keep you in shape for winter. Here is an excerpt from one of her many articles she has written:
“Outdoor ski conditioning can enhance your balance while improving your agility and reaction times.”
Take a Hike!
Although ski fitness activities can be performed either indoors or outdoors, many skiers like to do their ski conditioning on the same mountains that they usually ski. If you are looking for a relatively “low tech” form of ski fitness, consider hiking. To make your hike more “ski specific, when you descend from the hill, try walking in a variety of turn shapes that are similar to the ones you use when you ski. This will keep your feet and ankles in off-season ski shape, while helping you memorize movement patterns that are similar to those used in alpine skiing. To strengthen your ankles, instead of avoiding those rock trails that cross the streams, go ahead and cross them!
Ride, Sally, Ride
Mountain biking, because of its inherent balance challenges, is also an excellent off-season ski fitness activity. if the thought of cycling uphill leaves you less than thrilled, keep in mind that many ski resorts run their chairlifts throughout the summer. If you ride at the same hill where you ski, you get the chance to see where those tricky rocks and snow snakes like to hide during the winter.”
Lisa and I work out together 3 to 5 days a week at her Frisco fitness Studio, and have for about 3 years now. Her fitness program has certainly helped both my skiing and hiking!
[...] on your bike. I am sure as winter rolls around again there will be more books covering skiing and ski fitness, together with snowshoeing and all the other winter activities Summit County residents and visitors [...]