Are You Ready to Hit the Slopes?

I Feel it in the Air

There is something majestic about the mountains, especially when you look up and immerse yourself in the exquisite colors of the trees as they paint the landscape with the beauty of nature. Some wait all year for this moment, when everything is exploding with the bright reds and yellows that make Aspen such a beautiful place to live. Others hear the ticking of the clock. They feel the cool rush of air and feel their adrenaline begin to pump. That’s right, whether you ski or ride, the snow is coming!

Get Your Body Ready

After of summer of hiking, swimming and perhaps lounging a bit too much, it is definitely time to get your body ready for the upcoming season. Too many injuries occur in the opening days, not only because of rusty skills, but more often because we simply haven’t done the preparation to get ready for a very active and demanding sport. So, get off the couch, out of the office and get your muscles warmed up.

Stretch it Out

The benefits of stretching can never be taken for granted. Even if you are a year round athlete, taking the time now to stretch out your muscles will pay great dividends especially in the first few days of the season. While it is obvious that traditional leg stretches are needed, don’t forget your back and core. One good way to start getting your back limber is to stand facing a wall with your feet shoulder length apart and about 6-12 inches from the wall. Place your hands on the wall as high as you can reach and slowly arch your back and hold as long as possible. Take deep breaths and imagine yourself enjoying a trip down the pristine snow covered slopes. Do a few reps, but be careful not to overdo it. 

Strengthen Your Muscles

Skiing and snowboarding are sports that require a lot of energy in short bursts. To prepare yourself, do lunges and wind sprints, or use an exercise bike and include several periods of intense bursts of energy. This will prepare your muscles to be ready when the time comes. Regular and side planks are perfect exercises to get your core ready to absorb the bumps and demands of going downhill. Don’t neglect your arms. Push-ups, bench presses and curls will help keep your upper body in balance.

Want More Training Tips?

Our personal trainers love winter sports and we have instructed professional and amateur athletes, and kids of all ages to be fully prepared for the rigors and excitement of skiing, boarding, cross country or just plain sledding. Our experience will help you design an exercise program that not only strengthens your body, but gives you more confidence without the danger of injuring yourself before or after you get on the mountain. We want you to be able to enjoy the entire season with your friends and family.

Don’t Wait Until You See Snow

The best day to start is today. While you have time take a walk or run through the fall foliage, try reaching those toes and move those muscles. Before you know it you’ll be on a lift, excited for the first run of the season. We welcome you to come on into the gym and talk to us about your needs and goals or give us a call us at 970-920-9595 to set an appointment.  We look forward to seeing you on the slopes.