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"What more is there to need out of life than a pair of skis or snowboard,
and all the time and freedom of living in a ski resort."
--Warren Miller from "COLD FUSION" |
Table of Contents
Good idea to strengthen those leg muscles in preparation for longer Utah
runs, but don't forget the upper body too. Here are some links that may
help you. The training I most recommend is that which you do off
season.....running, biking, roller-blading and such, but if your off-season
workout didn't happen, be careful of the "weekend warrior" effect----any
radical increase in your routine could strain muscles that may not be ready
for intense workout. But assuming you have been working out
regularly....you might try some or one of these programs, books, websites
etc that we found:
http://www.bodyresults.com/S2endurance.asp\
learn from the cyclists:
http://www.ultracycling.com/training/training.html
Check out this online sports coach:
http://www.brianmac.demon.co.uk/circuit.htm
Check out this book, Fit to Ski...:
http://books.mcgraw-hill.com/getbook.php?isbn=0071468994&template=
Check out the article on Weight Training in
www.fasterskier.com: link is:
http://www.fasterskier.com/training489.html
Well, panic is a big part of the problem as skiing is maybe 80% mental. But even with the best attitude, hard pack can seem almost impossible to negotiate. If you don't learn to ski in all conditions, though, you may find the days you are actually able to ski are limited. The primary secret to successful turning and edging in ice is having a sharp edge to your skis. If you get into the habit of sharpening your edges often, you will always be ready for the challenge of ice. Your equipment is also worth examining. A narrow, stiff ski is best on hard pack. Rigid bindings and boots will give you the control you need to make the turn while reducing the strain on your ankles. And finally, placing most of your weight on your downhill ski will help you keep from falling by allowing your body to lean away from the hill while you press your knees into the hill.
Moguls are those bumps, grooves and holes in the snow that create what looks like an obstacle to anyone but the seasoned expert. Rhythm, speed control and balance are keys to success. You'll find it much easier to start a turn on the top of a mogul rather than above or below it, but your mental state is important too, as it can be a bit scary up there on top. But skiing to the top of the mogul will free up your tips and tails so you can pivot and slide into your turn. Take your time until you master the technique.
Anticipate, anticipate, anticipate. Whether you are a beginner at parallel or an expert in this type of skiing style, the position of your body in anticipating the turn is important. Skis are parallel, of course, and you extend and transfer your weight and change edges in one fluid move. Uncoiling your body and projecting your hips and upper body into the turn happens at the same time you begin steering both skis into the turn. Steering is continuous and then you anticipate the next turn.
Skiing in a position over the center of your skis offers optimum balance and control. Although some skiers can effectively use back leverage, it's generally easier to do in softer snow. Sitting back as a body position implying a relaxed and even "lazy" sort of style is not recommended at all. Back leverage is a technique some use, but a more aggressive stance and forward movement will make it easier for you to turn.
There are several techniques used in x-country skiing. The diagonal stride is achieved with the alternate movement of arms and legs, which is the same movement used in walking but more exaggerated. You may be using the skating technique, which takes more energy, uses quick movements and is more physically demanding. Try the diagonal stride for longer gliding and less exhausting movement.
