Shape_USA-January-February_2017

66 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 SHAPE.COM

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By SARA ANGLE

Trade your sneakers for skis or
a snowboard for a few of your

noon on the slopes will burn

off about 740 calories—the

same as an hour-long Spinning

class but with breathtaking

views. It will also work your leg

muscles more than pedaling

does, according to research in

the Journal of Sports Science &

Medicine. “Except you’ll have

so much fun, you won’t realize

you’re getting a challenging

workout,” says Kimmy Fasa ni,

a pro snowboarder for Burton.

The key, says ski instructor

Ann Schorling, a member of the

Professional Ski Instructors

of America and the American

Instructors (PSIA-AASI), is to

pinpoint the level of skill and

exertion that feels like it’s just

on the edge of your comfort

zone and hang out there.

No matter where you’re

starting from, we have

ideas to help you gain the

confid ence to clip or strap in

and push your limits in

exciting ways. Consider these

perks, then turn to page 70

for the gear that will make

you love every minute on the

mountain.

body

why you’ll probably notice that,

the more time you spend

on the slopes, the easier single-

leg exercises such as pistol

squats (see page 148) and

balance-challenge yoga poses

will feel. Also, each run requires

you to engage your glutes,

quads, hamstrings, and calves

in essentially one incredibly

long isometric contraction. The

proof of its sculpting power is in

the morning-after muscle sore-

ness. “Skiing and snowboarding

have the ability to point out

weaknesses,” Schorling says.

So take note of sore spots and

dedicate some gym time to

those musc .les You’ll come back

stronger on the slopes (and also

in your favorite studio class). →

CHOOSE YOUR

ADVENTURE

Most mountains

have a run for every

level, so you’ll

always be able to

take it easy

or push your limits.