Here's my own to do list to prepare for another great season of XC skiing here in the Snoqualmie Pass Corridor. It's October. So Less than 80-90 days to start skiing!
Make sure all my skis have their summer wax on. Maybe give them a hotbox treatment while the wax is still on in my garage. This preserves the bases and protects them until it's ski time! I'll take the wax off and brush them nicely in the days before I use each set of skis. Put your orthotics in your ski boots! (I always forget!)
I try to increase my cardiovascular system with longer bike and trail runs in October. XC skiing puts a big demand on your cardiovascular system; and you are at altitude skiing fast.
While you and I could wait to get in shape on the ski tracks, the weather is perfect to get in some longer sessions on the rollerskis (or skates, blades,etc.), bikes or running trails (add poles and bound for a more ski specific workout up hills.)
Work on our one leg balance. You know what I am going to say: "Always brush your upper teeth on the one right leg. Brush the lower teeth on the other leg. Every day. Twice." Your dentist says twice a day, two minutes each time. So does your ski instructor! This doesn't take any extra time in your day. And it works! Too easy? Close your eyes. As Nike says: "Just Do It."
My arms are looking even skinnier than usual! So time for some upper body workouts on the chin-up pole and pull downs with the rubber bands. If you're like me and have been biking (or running) all off season since March, you want to start with a strong upper body for all your great poling technique. A Ski Erg or the pull down straps at the gym are ideal! Add two Bosu half balls to increase difficulty.
I need to continue to work the core. More than just sit-ups, I think of all exercises that strengthen all sides of my core box where all my moving muscles are connected. So work your lower back and oblique (side) muscles! All of your levers; your legs and upper back + arms are connected to your vital core box!
I am planning my early ski vacation to Mt. Bachelor in late November/early December (once they open) with my ski friends!
Finally, I plan on continuing my education with PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America) Instructors' courses.
Do you want a tune-up lesson or two (or 4?) to get your ski technique improved this coming season? Well you know how much I would like to help you with lessons this coming XC ski season. Similar 75 minute private lessons as last year except I am not changing skis between classes anymore so each day is specific:
Mondays: Reserved for beginning new to intermediate skate XC skiing at Hyak SnoPark. New loop teaching area with curves and small inclines to practice! Closest grooming to Seattle and indoor plumbing!
Tuesday: no grooming so bike!
Wednesdays: Intermediate to advanced XC Skate skiers at Crystal Springs SnoPark. More technical terrain is best to learn on and fewer skiers.
Thursday: Beginning Classic XC skiers at Hyak SnoPark. See above about Hyak.
Friday: My day off for PT, and free skiing.
Saturday: Intermediate to Advanced Classic skiers at Crystal Springs SnoPark. Erling Stordahl Trails are double tracks for classic and the blind skiers who come up on Saturdays. More crowded so come early!
Sunday: Intermediate to advanced XC skate skiers. Less crowded than Saturday and Erling Stordahl Trails are open to skating. Filling up fast.
A big thanks to all my returning XC skiers who have already signed up for this season. Skate days are pretty full. More openings on classic days.
My calendar with open slots for you are on my calendar which is found at my website Schreckski.com. Go there!
Ski when you can. Or bike,
Schreck Schreckski@gmail.com Schreckski.com
"If you come to a fork in the road, take it. There might be something good to eat around the corner!" -----Schreck
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