5 exercises for snowboarders

It's critical to get your body in top shape as a snowboarder to avoid injury, feel stronger and ultimately have more fun on the mountain. Here are five great exercises for snowboarders.

• This is the ultimate core exercise, and it works in the necessary twisting motion that snowboarders need to carve those crisp turns on the mountain.
•  Sit on the floor with your knees bent. Lift your feet off the floor as you lean back slightly, keeping your spine as straight as possible. Twist your body to one side, then come back to centre and then twist to the other side.
• Do two sets of 15 to 20 reps, depending on your ability, and add weights as necessary.

• Ideal for working your butt and legs, jump squats are tough but worth it. They strengthen the bottom half of your body, so you can stay stable on your board throughout the entire day, even in the gnarliest powder.
•  Step your feet shoulder distance apart and lower into a squat. Then, come up out of your squat with a jump into the air.
• Be sure to land as gently as possible on your feet so you don't injure yourself.
• Do two sets of ten reps.

• Calf raises are a great way to work not only your calf muscles, but your feet and toes as well, all critical for snowboarding. Strong lower legs and feet enable you to keep a better balance, improve the sharpness of your turns, and feel more comfortable in your boots.
• Simply stand with your feet six inches apart near a wall or something to balance. Lift your heels off the ground to stand on your toes, and then slowly lower down.
• Do two sets of 15 to 20 reps.

• A side plank is a core builder, and it's also great for building up stability and strength in shoulders to help you avoid injury on the slopes.
• Rest your right arm and the outside of your right foot on the ground and roll so your entire right side is resting on the ground. Then, lift yourself up by the right arm so your body forms a straight plank at an angle to the ground.
• Hold for 30 seconds to a minute. Switch sides and repeat.

• This exercise works your legs, butt, core, and balance all at once to help you build the necessary stability and strength for snowboarding season.
• Sit in an imaginary chair with your spine flat against the wall and your thighs parallel to the floor.
• Make sure your feet are directly below your knees to avoid injury.
• Hold this position for 30 seconds. Rest and repeat.