Skiers and snowboarders don’t just build up their balance and strength on the slopes. Whilst time in the snow is essential for improving your abilities

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there are other sports and exercises that can help too. Yoga is one of them.

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise. It was developed as a way to improve strength and flexibility. Yoga can also help to relieve tension. This is great for winter sport lovers who may feel a little tight in their muscles after an energetic afternoon on the slopes.

Equally, if you have a weak spot – a particular knee or hip, perhaps – yoga can help to balance you out. You’ll release tension caused by overcompensating muscles and work to build up the weak points for a truly balanced and honed performance on the slopes.

The breathing exercises incorporated into yoga movements and the level of mental focus required can also serve skiers and snowboarders well back on the mountain. Whether you’re competing or just attempting a new challenge, the tenets you learn in yoga could help you to get in the right mental zone to achieve.

If you’re new to yoga, it’s a good idea to seek out a professional instructor who can teach you the basic movements and principles of the exercise. The best instructors will be able to advise you on the best movements for winter sport enthusiasts. And, once you’ve learnt the basics, try your hand at these yoga movements, all excellent options for developing the strength and balance you need as skiers and snowboarders:

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Chair Pose
From a standing position, bend your knees as if you’re going to sit down on a chair. Bring your thighs as close to parallel with the floor as you can. Sit back so you can still see your toes and raise your arms straight above your head. Keep your shoulder blades down and your neck long. Hold this pose for a few seconds before lowering your arms and straightening your legs.

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High Lunge
From the Downward Facing Dog pose (bent in the middle with your hands and feet on the floor) step your right foot between your hands. Pull in your abs and, breathing in, sweep yourself upright, with your arms reaching for the sky and your feet in the same position. Reverse the move until your back in Downward Facing Dog and then repeat with your left leg.

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Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose
From a standing position, lift your right knee. With your right hand, grab your big toe and then try to extend your leg until it is straight. You should keep a straight back, a long neck and maintain your hips at the same level. Hold the pose for a few seconds and then repeat with the left leg.

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Cow Pose
From all fours, with your knees under your hips and your wrists under your shoulders, raise your head to look at the wall in front of you and allow your belly to sink towards the floor. Hold this pose for a few seconds before moving your gaze back to the floor and regaining your tabletop position.

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Reclining Butterfly Pose
Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bring the soles of your feet together. This will take your knees out to the side and create a diamond shape. Lie back onto the floor. Use the support of your arms if necessary. Hold this position for a few seconds before rolling onto your side and returning to a seated position.

So next summer or whenever the snow is light on the ground, don’t neglect your balance and strength. Use yoga to develop your muscles and improve your boarding and skiing all year round.

Savannah is an experienced traveller and photographer who loves winter sports and mountains. Whenever not working at SnowPak.com, she’s at the slopes in the US or Europe. She’s also keen on yoga and fitness.

Source: AWAKEN