As temperatures start to cool, athletes start thinking about get in shape for winter sports. For most of them it has been many months since they were on skis, snowboards or skates. Follow these tips to get in shape for winter sports.
Instructions
Get in Shape for Winter Sports
1. Do summer sports. Do a sport that complements your favorite winter sport. If you like to snow ski, then water ski. If you enjoy snowboarding, surf or jump on your skateboard. If you ice skate, strap on some in-line skates. Some of the motions may be different, but you are essentially using the same muscle groups.
2. Hit the gym. If you want to develop specific muscles for winter sports, lift weights. Most winter sports emphasize the lower body. Squats and lunges will make your legs strong quickly. Don't forget to work your core. Abdominal exercises will help you in every motion from cross country skiing to a double axle.
3. Take to the road. Running and jogging will increase your endurance while strengthening your legs. If you don't like to run, head to the pool and swim laps or pedal your bike. Most winter sports require more endurance than summer sports since you are expending more energy staying warm. You are also usually at higher altitudes, breathing thinner air. Pump up your cardio vascular system to get in shape for winter sports.
4. Try a simulator. There are several skiing and snowboarding simulators on the market that mimic the motion on the mountain. There are also businesses that roll carpets on a conveyor belt up an incline and let you ski down.
5. Get serious about your diet and sleep. If you really want to get in shape for winter sports, you need to get in better overall condition. That means eating a healthy diet and getting 8 hours of sleep per night. Also be sure to rest the day after a hard workout so your body can heal. If you are in better overall condition, you will be much more prepared when the snow falls.
Tags: shape winter, winter sports, better overall, better overall condition, Most winter