The best snowboarders use a minimal amount of muscle power. Their skill comes from dynamic balance. Note the emphasis on the word "dynamic." It implies balance in motion, which differs from static balance. Although static balance exercises, which usually involve standing on one leg, can be a good starting point for snowboard balance training, it's important… read more
Whether an avid snowboarder or someone interested in learning to board, it is important to know and understand the primary muscles used for snowboarding. Once you know this, you can use this knowledge to train, to help prevent injury and to become a better boarder. The primary muscles used for snowboarding are core muscles, foot/ankle muscles, upper leg musc… read more
Cross-country skiing is the most dynamic winter sport. Unlike alpine skiing and snowboarding, which rely primarily on the core and lower body, cross-country skiing also makes active use of the muscles of the upper body. As such, a one hour session can burn a considerable number of calories. Additionally, since cross-country or Nordic skiing does not use chai… read more
What are the primary muscles used for downhill skiing? If you had asked this question 50 years ago, you would have received an entirely different answer. Back then, strength was a crucial element of alpine skiing. As such, the quadriceps, which are the strong muscles in the front of the thighs, would have been the primary muscles utilized. With the advent of… read more
Rope climbing is one of the most physically challenging activities you can do, incorporating your arms, legs and core muscles. It is also an excellent workout in preparation for rock or boulder climbing, where you will use many of the same muscles and may need to climb up your rope if you slip from your hold on the rock face. read more
If you live in a four-season climate you will find it difficult to canoe year-round. In order stay in shape during the colder months, there are a variety of off-season activities you should be sure to engage in. There are two differen… read more
Cross-country skiing is a prehistoric method of travel and a sporting tradition originating in Scandinavian and Norwegian areas. Today it is used as a mode of exploration, sight-seeing and exercise all over the snowy regions of the wor… read more
Since mountain biking is an exercise in itself, many people forget weight lifting is an important part. Weight training is particularly important in mountain biking as riding on trails can jar the body, and put stress on joints and mus… read more
Learning a proper kayak paddling technique is an essential step to enjoying your time on the water. Even recreational users benefit greatly from learning proper technique because it means that they can go longer while experiencing less… read more
Staying in shape is essential for any serious snowboarder, but many athletes don't have year-round access to snowy slopes. If you need to find a way to stay in shape during dry months, consider a training program that will have your co… read more
Getting air off jumps is a huge part of pulling off tricks using BMX bikes. While getting a bike off the ground using a simple jump like the bunnyhop is easy, higher jumps allow for more complex tricks and better scores in BMX competit… read more
Strong abdominal muscles help make backpacking more enjoyable. If the core muscles of the abdomen are strong and well-toned, you'll be able to carry your pack longer and with less strain. Strengthening your abdominal muscles doesn't re… read more
Strong abdominal muscles help make your outdoor activities more enjoyable. Strong and well-toned core muscles are important in a wide range of outdoor activities, like backpacking, climbing, bicycling and more. They provide stability t… read more
You may know from experience that a tight lower back can ruin a good hike or sideline you from your favorite sport. Prevention is key: To support your lower back, strengthen your core muscles. Plan an exercise and stretching routine to… read more
Cross-training with medicine ball exercises is an effective way to develop strength, agility and increase power for various sports. It can also add variety to an athlete's workouts or be used as part of a circuit-training regimen. Medi… read more
Lower back exercises keep your core strong and limber while also decreasing your risks of suffering from chronic pain. They also provide relief from stress and promote muscle relaxation, though you should always use caution when doing… read more
Correct posture provides the body with a structural base of support and enhances skill and athleticism. Movements that begin in optimal alignment progress with fluidity and efficiency. In contrast, abnormal posture creates unnatural st… read more
Even if you are constantly hiking, biking or otherwise on the go, you may not be reaping the full benefits of your active lifestyle. Perhaps your workouts are too short and infrequent. Maybe they don't include all the elements that wil… read more
Back pain can ruin your ride. Finding out what causes your pain is the best way to make your ride more comfortable. Back pain can keep you away from all of your outdoor activities, so seek medical attention if your pain does not impro… read more
Sea kayaks and similar longer craft take more work to turn than a whitewater or recreational kayak. The sweep stroke, a fundamental stroke for kayaking, works efficiently to turn sea kayaks. Think of the sweep stroke in terms of Newton… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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