As the snow-covered peaks call out skiers and snowboarders, we are shouting out that preparation is key to conquering the mountain with confidence and finesse. Carving through fresh powder or hot dogging new tricks in the park may seem like the ultimate test of skill, but the best of the best understand that off-mountain training plays a key role in optimizing on-mountain performance.
Enter the world of dry land training, where skiers and snowboarders of all levels—from rookies to pros—fine-tune their bodies and minds to reach peak performance when it matters most. If you're looking to ski or ride more days than ever before, take on new terrain, tricks, or trails, or you want extra steeze in your style, then training at home or in the gym can be your express lift to the top.
Your going to learn about five focus points that we put into every ski and snowboard program. These are key areas that elevate your game, and keep you feeling fresh all season.
Flexibility for Fluid Movement: Flexibility is the key to fluidity on the slopes. It keeps you balanced over your base and reduces your injury risk. Incorporating dynamic stretching and yoga poses into your warm-up routine can increase your range of motion and prevent muscle tightness. Whether you're carving tight turns or executing grabs in the air, flexible muscles and joints ensure that you move with grace and ease.
How are you staying flexible throughout the season?
Try out this Center Wood Chop to get fluid back in your flex:
Strengthen Your Core for Stability: A strong core is the foundation of every successful run down the mountain. Engage your abdominal muscles, obliques, and lower back with exercises like Russian twists, plank variations, and stability ball rollouts. A stable core not only enhances your balance and control but also helps prevent injuries on the unforgiving terrain.
What core work are you doing to keep strong and stable?
The Palloff Press is a great exercise to control your rotation:
Power Up with Plyometrics: Plyometric exercises are the secret weapon in every skier and snowboarder's arsenal. From explosive jumps to quick directional changes, these high-intensity drills build strength, agility, and power—all essential for navigating the slopes with precision. Incorporate box jumps, lateral bounds, and depth jumps into your training routine to boost your ability to shred with style and confidence.
Do you want more pop for your stomp?
The Depth Drop will have you landing and launching like a pro:
Condition Your Cardiovascular System: Endurance is the name of the game when it comes to conquering long runs and challenging terrain. Boost your cardiovascular fitness with activities like cycling, running, or interval training. A strong heart and lungs not only improve your stamina, but also enhance your recovery time between runs, allowing you to maximize your time on the mountain.
Do you want to never call last run again?
Pair these two for a circuit to get your heart, lungs, and legs ready for first and last chair:
Mind Over Mountain: Mental preparation is just as crucial as physical conditioning when it comes to ski and snowboard performance. Visualize your lines, focus on your breathing, and cultivate a positive mindset to conquer any obstacle that comes your way. Whether you're facing a daunting black diamond run or attempting a new trick in the park, mental toughness is the ultimate game-changer.
Are you ready to exhale, inhale, and feel exhilarated?
Try our breath work training to calm your mind for performance:
Remember, dry land training for skiers and snowboarders isn't just about building strength and endurance—it's about honing your skills, sharpening your reflexes, and elevating your overall performance on the mountain. So lace up your sneakers, grab your gear, and drop in on the journey to becoming the ultimate skier or snowboarder. The mountain awaits, and with the right preparation, you'll be ready to rip like never before.
Are you ready to take your on-mountain performance to new heights? Then take on SnowSport Prep, the program that keeps skiers and snowboarders on the mountain, and out of the clinic.
Let's conquer the slopes together—see you at the top!