The Wind Thrill Factor Is High

When you are able to catch your breath after polishing off a top to bottom bump bashing of the face of Mammoth's Chair 3, in full view of the lift, quickly enough to introduce yourself to the absolute BABE on the snowboard, whom you spotted on your way up the lift, you're upcoming evening adventure is signed, sealed & delivered.

You'll also find through thorough cardio conditioning that you acclimate to higher elevations more easily because your body's oxygen transport system is much more efficient at oxygen delivery. And, aerobics help greatly in keeping your bodyfat low which means you carry less useless weight. This means you're able to hold an edge, both on the hill and in the hot tub, aprés ski.

Effective Cardio Conditioning

Proper aerobic training involves maintaining a heart rate within your training zone for at least 20 minutes. Some winter sport specific aerobic activities are treadmill running, trail running, stair climbing, stationary, road or mountain biking, and rope jumping.

Here's a tip: Interval training can greatly improve your slopeside stamina, FAST! So, what are intervals? They're little more than simply running (for instance) alternately, at a higher intensity (perhaps 90% of your Maximum Heart Rate), for 2 minutes, and then at a lower intensity (let's say, down to 70%) for two minutes for the target repetitions, perhaps 5 to 10 (intervals). Of course, you'll begin your intervals after at least a 5 minute warm up, and end with a low intensity cool down, followed by a stretch session for your lower body. SPECIAL NOTE: Quick! Find Your Training Zone... So, what is your particular training zone? It's 70% to 90% of your Maximum Heart Rate, or whatever level below that which is consistent with your current fitness level. Check your pulse about every 5 minutes during training to ensure you are still within your optimal range. Skiing is a fairly high intensity sport, so you'll want to train at the highest level appropriate for your current physical condition.

REMEMBER

Aerobic improvements can be felt within two weeks, but significantly greater benefits are realized after several months of training. The same goes for balance training and weight training. Start now! You make progress within weeks but the most noticeable and useful changes come only after months of consistently challenging yourself in the gym. Why short change yourself. Put in the workout time before your first winter vacation and you'll ski and / or ride with greater confidence, ability, and enjoyment. We spend a ton on lift tickets, gear, airfare, lodging, meals and so on, doesn't it only make sense to be in condition enough to take advantage of your vacation time? That's right!

Ultimate Program

Use the program tips above to get you started, right away. Then, check out the Sport Fit Card for Skiing, for the best, complete, photo-detailed, sport specific training regimen for skiers & boarders. Also pick up the December / January (Winter, 1998) "Men's Journal", and turn to page 77 for some more complimentary ski fitness tips!

Train smart, specifically and with intensity and have fun! I'll see ya on the hill!