The countdown is on—ski season in Big Sky is fast approaching! Before the lifts start spinning and Lone Mountain is covered in powder, now’s the perfect time to get your body ready for another epic winter on the slopes. A little pre-season training goes a long way toward building strength, endurance, and balance—so you can make the most of every run this season.
If you’ve spent your summer hiking, biking, or running, you’re already off to a great start. Now it’s time to focus that energy and tune up those ski muscles for winter.
1. Build That Core
A strong core helps you stay centered and in control throughout every carve. Mix in planks, crunches, or Pilates-inspired routines a few times a week to strengthen your abs and back. Yoga is also a great way to build flexibility and stability—your hips (and turns) will thank you!
2. Strengthen Those Ski Legs
From the steep terrain at Big Sky Resort to the rolling Nordic trails at Lone Mountain Ranch, your legs will do a lot of work out here. Set them up for success with squats, lunges, wall sits, and step-ups to build strength and endurance. Trail running or biking with lots of climbs helps too.
3. Don’t Skip Upper Body Training
Strong arms and shoulders are especially important for Nordic skiers and for carrying all that winter gear! Add push-ups, tricep dips, or resistance-band exercises to round out your strength routine.
4. Fine-Tune Your Balance & Mobility
Balance is key on snow. Try single-leg stands, balance board exercises, or yoga flows that challenge your coordination and control.
5. Keep the Momentum Going in Big Sky
Once you’re here, keep your wellness routine alive! Join a yoga class at Santosha to stretch and reset after a big day on the mountain, drop into Moving Mountains for their MTN Strength Group class or open gym, or grab a day pass at BASE Community Center for open gym time, climbing, and fitness classes. Staying active between ski days not only helps prevent injury but keeps your energy high for every adventure that follows.
Whether you’re carving down groomers, gliding along Big Sky's Nordic trail network, or pulling your kids on a sled, you’ll feel the difference a little pre-season training makes. The ski season is fast approaching—be prepared, stay strong, and keep the stoke alive!