How to Prep for Winter Sports
What can I do to prevent injury or strengthen myself for skiing, snowboarding, and more winter sports?
You can try multiple exercises. And here’s one of my go-tos. I just prepared this new video short for strengthening – Bulgarian Split Squats. It’s one of the best functional exercises you can do to get ready for winter sports. PLUS, you can do it from the comfort of your own living room (or wherever you have a steady surface like a chair). The movement pattern helps to steady walking, as well as helping improve strength for winter sports like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, or snowboarding.
What are the benefits of the Bulgarian Split Squat exercise?
- Improves balance as the exercise is done one leg at a time
- Strengthens your hip and glute muscles, which will improve stability in the lower leg
- Strengthens quadriceps muscles that help keep proper alignment at the knee.
- Reduces back strain as the exercise puts less stress on the low back, and typically, is done with lower weights or with body weight alone.
- Improves core strength, as you are required to balance on one leg throughout the exercise
Remember – proper form is crucial! Watch the video here to set up properly and avoid injury.
Pro Tip: Start off Bulgarian Split Squats with bodyweight only. Progress toward working with dumbbells in your hands by your sides as the exercise gets easier.
With Rolfing locations in Bellevue and Tacoma, Horan Holistic Health can help you with any lower body issue you have that might keep you from living your best life this winter – and anytime!