Palisades Tahoe Receives First Significant Snowfall of Season

Palisades Tahoe Receives First Significant Snowfall of Season

Palisades Tahoe Receives First Significant Snowfall of Season

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Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast

Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast

Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast

Discover the precise winter weather predictions and practical tips in the Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Forecast. Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming season like never before.

 

Get ready to unlock the secrets of the upcoming winter season with the highly anticipated Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast. This comprehensive guide is your ultimate source for accurate and detailed winter weather predictions.

Packed with invaluable insights and expert analysis, the Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast provides a treasure trove of information to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of the winter months. From temperatures to precipitation patterns, this forecast offers precise and reliable data, empowering you to make informed decisions and plan ahead.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, a traveler, or simply someone who wants to stay ahead of the weather, this forecast is an essential tool. Imagine having the ability to know exactly when and where the best ski conditions will be, or being able to plan your winter getaways with confidence, knowing the weather will cooperate.

But the Farmers’ Almanac goes beyond just a winter weather forecast. It also provides practical tips and advice on everything from home preparation and gardening to health and wellness during the colder months. Gain valuable insights on how to stay safe during winter storms, protect your property, and even boost your immune system.

Don’t miss out on this invaluable resource. Check out the Farmers’ Almanac Winter 2024 Extended Weather Forecast today and embark on a winter season filled with knowledge, preparedness, and peace of mind.

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How to Get Fit for Ski Season

How to Get Fit for Ski Season

Bent knee side step with a mini band

With an elastic miniband around your ankles, step laterally, pushing down through your feet with each step. Toes pointed forward. Two steps right, then two steps left. Repeat three times. Do 1-2 sets. This movement strengthens hip (gluteals) and quadriceps muscles, thereby improving stability.

single leg multi tough exercise

Single leg multitouch

Stand on one leg with the other reaching behind you. Simultaneously flex your ankle, knee, and hip in one linear plane as you lower your body and touch the floor with your fingers. Do not let your knee or hip wobble to either side (out of the linear plane). One rep involves dipping three times and touching the floor in three places: on the left, in front, and on the right side of your foot. Do four reps for each leg. This exercise will strengthen your legs individually, improving balance and leg strength.

bulgarian exercise move

Bulgarian split squat

Rest one foot on a bench behind you, then squat down with the other leg. Do not let your knee cave to the inside, keep it in line with your foot. Do 6-12 reps per leg, and 2-4 sets.This exercise strengthens quads, hamstrings and glutes and helps you overcome a favored side.

side rotation exercise with band

Side Rotations with Resistance Band

Hook an elastic resistance band to an anchor (such as a door knob), then stand sideways to the stretched cord. Take a “ski stance,” then push into your feet to anchor your legs and hips as you pull the band across your body, twisting your core (but not your hips). Return to the start position with control. Do 5-12 reps. per side, 2-4 sets.

side lunge exercise

Side Lunge

From a standing position, step quickly to one side and squat on that leg. Then quickly rebound to the other side and squat on that leg. Step on your mid-foot, then transfer weight to your heel as your lunge. Do 8-12 reps each side, 2-4 sets. This movement trains your body to handle the lateral movements of skiing.

side rotation exercise with band

Side Plank

Lie on your side, then prop your body up on your elbow. Your body should be in a straight line (don’t drop your hip) with weight on your elbow and outside of your foot. Hold for 20-90 seconds each side. Do 2-4 sets. This movement strengthens abs, glutes and shoulders.

Advice for First Time Skiers: Take a Ski Lesson

Advice for First Time Skiers: Take a Ski Lesson

ADVICE FOR FIRST TIMERS: TAKE A LESSON!

Taking a ski lesson from professionals is a great investment. Instructors know and can demonstrate technique and they also have experience dealing with customers who have varying skills. They understand that different individuals will respond differently to learning.

Snow sports industry research indicates that about 50 percent of beginners who purchase a lift, ski lesson, and rental package from a resort wind up not taking the lesson. The assumption is that one can “self-teach,” they feel that it is easier to rely on a friend or family member. Those who make that assumption should ask themselves, “Would I try to teach myself how to skydive or have a friend teach me?”

That analogy may be a stretch. But all too often, well-meaning companions over-estimate newcomers’ skills and escort them to a slope that is beyond their ability level. That often leads to an exercise in frustration for both parties rather than a sense of accomplishment. Most instructors can readily assess those skill sets. They can tailor their programs accordingly.

Having an opportunity to “pick the brains” of professional instructors is an added value. Most instructors are a wealth of information on all aspects of the sports. By and large, they are more than willing to share that knowledge with others on issues within and outside the parameters of the ski lesson. Topics might include how to dress, types of equipment, tips on the most popular slopes, safety precautions and more.

Lessons are available all winter long at resorts throughout the U.S. Additional tips on skiing or snowboarding for beginners can be found at sunandsnowadventures.com.

–Mary Jo Tarallo

How to Keep Your Ski Gear in Shape

How long your ski gear remains in tiptop condition depends entirely on how well it’s maintained. At least once a season, it’s good to get skis tuned by a specialty shop, where tuning machines can reproduce a factory finish on the skis so they perform like new. Here are some tips on how to keep your equipment in optimal condition for better performance on the snow.

If you follow these maintenance tips, a well-made pair of skis can perform acceptably for 200 skier days, and may last longer if there’s no major damage. Even inexpensive package skis have at least 100 days of useful life in them. Heavier and more aggressive skiers will usually wear out their skis—and anything else they own—faster than the lighter and more cautious.

Jackson Hogen

DAILY EQUIPMENT CARE

Skis

Wipe clean and dry. Check for dings on edges and bases.

Boots

Buckle all buckles with just enough tension to keep closed. Be sure soles are clean and no mud or debris is lodged in tread. After a day of skiing, remove your liner to let it dry – you’ll be glad you did. 

Bindings

Wipe clean, particularly at boot and binding interfaces.

working on ski bindings

REGULAR MAINTENANCE
AND AT THE END OF THE SEASON

Skis

Get ski edges tuned by the shop. Or do it yourself: freshen up side edges with a light filing, followed by hand polishing. Fill cuts in bases if necessary. Wax, scrape and buff.

Boots

Visually inspect for sole wear and damage to buckles.

Bindings

Look for excessive wear, damage or missing parts. Inspect boot/binding interfaces.

tuning the edges of skis

Tips for Your Kids Ski Gear

TIPS FOR SUCCESS!

Gear for your kids: Always a good year to buy or lease their ski gear.

Most kids’ skis are sold as systems, meaning they come with a specific binding. With the way kids grow, renting kids ski gear makes far more sense than purchasing. A seasonal rental is a good compromise and can cost under $200 for skis, boots and poles.

Children can seem to grow out of their equipment overnight – this is especially true when it comes to boots. Some shops recommend getting a boot a little larger especially if your child is in a growing phase. But be aware that if it’s fitted too big, children risk having zero control over the skis as their feet slide forward in the outsized shell.

It makes it difficult for children to put forward pressure on the front of the boot, which is essential for good skiing habits. It’s a good topic to discuss with the bootfitter and the best option is to switch it out mid-season if your kids feet grow and the boot becomes too tight. Comfort is key!

skids holding hands while skiing

Kids’ Binding Intel

As for bindings, most kids’ skis are systems, meaning they come with their own bindings. If buying a child’s binding à la carte, be sure it’s a junior binding designed to accept children’s norm boot soles. It will have a DIN scale of roughly 0.5 – 4.5. Junior bindings that work with both junior and adult soles usually have a DIN scale from 2 – 7.

Skis for Kids

When it comes to skis, shorter skis are the way to go for kids just learning how to ski. Go for a length that just reaches the chin. Shorter skis are easier to control and maneuver. Even if your child is on the tall side, consider a shorter length until he or she learn the necessary skills to control turning. Once skiing comfortably and in control, length can grow to nose height. By the time a child attains advanced ability, you’ll have a clear idea of his or her needs.

What to Say When Shopping for Ski Gear

When you go to buy your ski gear, salespeople are trained to open the sale by asking a litany of questions. Be ready to reveal as much as you can about yourself as a skier. Make sure you cover these key subjects with your ski salesperson.

SKI BACKGROUND

How many years have you been skiing and how frequently per season? How would you describe your skills?

SKI STYLE

Are you cautious and conservative or aggressive and attacking? Do you like speed? Are you a Finesse or Power skier?

CURRENT SKI PLANS

Where do you ski now? On what runs? Be as specific as possible as to where you ski and what sort of terrain and conditions you want to master. How much will you ski this year?

WHY YOU SKI

What motivates you to get on the hill? Fresh air with friends? Learning off-trail skills? Skiing with the kids? Mastering a challenging sport?

Jackson Hogen

 

woman skiing powder
Using Long-Distance Runs and Hikes for Pre-Season Fitness

Using Long-Distance Runs and Hikes for Pre-Season Fitness

As winter approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the joy of hitting the slopes for a day of carving groomers and searching for secret pow stashes. To truly make the most of these days on the hill and to ensure we’re having fun while reducing the risk of injuries, it’s essential to shake off the summer BBQs and libations and get your body ready for the season. This is where long-distance runs and hikes can be your secret weapon. This time of year, you can turn your foliage frolicking into an excuse to get in shape for the ski and snowboard season.

There are tons of benefits to long-distance runs and hikes that go beyond merely building your cardio. First, you can build your lower body to better handle the stress a day on the slopes puts on your thighs, back, calves and feet. Not only that, long distance running and hiking helps build your mental strength, which is necessary to overcome fatigue challenges you’ll ultimately meet towards the end of a long day carving groomers or pouding bumps.

So as you prepare mind, body and soul for another season of powder hunting, we encourage you to take advantage of the autumn weather and beautiful fall scenery and get out on the trail for a hike or a run. Either way, you’ll benefit from being active, while getting some fresh air before the winter weather forces our workouts back indoors.

Here are some benefits, strategies, and expert advice on incorporating long-distance runs and hikes into your fitness routine.

The Importance of Preparing for Ski and Snowboard Season

Skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating activities, but they demand a lot from your body. Whether you’re gliding down groomers or floating through powder, these sports require strength, balance, and endurance. Therefore, to have a great day, keep up with your buddies – or kids – and not run out of gas midday, it’s crucial to prepare in advance.

Advantages of Preparing for Ski and Snowboard Season

Skiing and snowboarding are physically demanding sports that place significant stress on your lower body, particularly your legs. Endurance and stamina are key to conquering long runs and maintaining control through all terrain. When you prepare adequately and get in good shape pre-season, you’ll have the three ingredience you need – endurance, leg strength, core stability – to perform the way you want to.

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Benefits Long-Distance Runs and Hikes

Long-distance runs and hikes offer a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your fitness level and improve your performance on the slopes. Some key advantages include building your endurance, strengthening your core (including your back) and lower body and sharpening your mental acuity.

Endurance Building

By engaging in long-distance runs and hikes, your body strengthens its cardiovascular system, allowing for increased endurance. This is essential for prolonged skiing and snowboarding sessions, which can be physically demanding. Fatigue only opens the door to falls and the potential of injury.

Leg Strength and Stability

The repetitive nature of long-distance running and hiking helps build muscular strength, particularly in the legs. As we all know, strong leg muscles provide stability when navigating the slopes, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing overall performance.

Core Stability

Long-distance runs and hikes engage your core muscles, which are crucial for maintaining balance and stability while skiing or snowboarding. A strong core reduces the strain on your back and promotes efficient movement on the slopes, and in everyday life, too.

Mental Toughness

Endurance exercises like long-distance running and hiking also train your mind to push through fatigue and discomfort. Developing mental toughness will benefit you when facing challenging skiing or snowboarding conditions or navigating down to the base at the end of a long day, ensuring you stay focused, confident and upright.

Preparing for Long-Distance Runs and Hikes

Before embarking on long-distance runs and hikes, it is essential to prepare your body adequately. Consider these four guidelines to maximize the effectiveness of your training.

1. Consult with a Doctor

As always with beginning a new exercise regimen, it’s encouraged to check with your doctor first especially if you are new to intense physical activity or have any underlying health conditions. Even though you’re probably an active person, it is crucial to ensure your body can handle the added stress of long runs and hikes, especially at varying altitudes.

2. Invest in Proper Footwear

Invest in high-quality running or hiking shoes that provide excellent support and cushioning. Add a performance insole, like the Masterfit QF Universal Insole, to increase support and enhance performance.  Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters and even potential injuries, so choose footwear that suits your foot type and the terrain you’ll be tackling.

3. Warm-Up and Stretch

Stretching is standard operating procedure when exercising, but often forgotten or just taken for granted. Before each run or hike, warm up with dynamic exercises such as leg swings, arm circles, and light jogging. Follow this with a series of dynamic stretches, particularly the hamstrings, groin, back, and calves, to prepare your muscles for the upcoming workout and prevent strains.

4. Start Slowly

This is very important. Sometimes we get a little over enthusiastic when beginning a new training session – I know I do. Begin with shorter distances and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your runs and hikes. This progressive approach will prevent injuries and allow your body to adapt to the demands of long-distance training.

Long-Distance Running Techniques for Ski and Snowboard Conditioning

To optimize your long-distance running routine for pre-season fitness conditioning, consider the following techniques:

Hill Training

Include hill sprints or uphill runs in your training regimen to mimic the uphill sections of mountain. This will strengthen your legs, improve endurance, and enhance your ability to navigate challenging terrains. It will also prepare you for any hike-to terrain you want to conquer this season. 

Also, run downhill with your hands out in front of your torso like you’re holding a lunch tray (as you would hold your poles when skiing). Navigate around rocks and other obstacles with shorter than normal steps and concentrate on looking forward, only glancing periodically at the ground to watch out for loose impediments. This will quicken your feet while building your quads through the impact of each step.

Interval Training

Incorporate interval training into your long-distance runs by alternating between high-intensity bursts and periods of active recovery. For example, pick an object about 30-40 yards in the distance and sprint to it. Then slow to a jog for about a minute and repeat for 4-5 intervals, or more if you want/can. This mimics the stop-and-start nature of skiing or snowboarding and improves your body’s ability to handle changing intensities and heart rates.

Cross-Training

To enhance your overall fitness, incorporate cross-training activities such as cycling, swimming, or strength training into your routine. These exercises target different muscle groups and help prevent overuse injuries.

young woman trail running in the fall

Combining Runs and Hikes for Optimal Preparation

By combining long-distance running and hiking, you can experience several advantages.

Balanced Workout Routine

Running primarily targets your lower body, while hiking engages various muscle groups. Combining both activities creates a well-rounded workout routine that builds strength, endurance, and balance.

Reduced Risk of Overuse Injuries

As mentioned above, cross-training reduces the risk of overuse injuries associated with repetitive motions. Alternating between running and hiking allows specific muscle groups to rest, while others are engaged.

Enhanced Mental Toughness

Switching between different activities challenges your mental adaptability, enhancing your mental toughness and ability to handle changing conditions on the slopes.

Create a Balanced Routine

Plan your training schedule to incorporate both running and hiking and a recover activity in between. For example, you might run on Mondays and Wednesdays, hike on Fridays, and rest or engage in active recovery activities on the days in between and/or on the weekends such as yoga or swimming.

Track Your Progress and Make Adjustments

Keep a training journal to record your runs, hikes, and any notable experiences or challenges – like that encounter with a fox or a moose on the trail. Regularly assess your progress and adjust your training routine based on your goals and performance.

Fall is an exciting time of year, not only for the foliage and cooler air, but for the anticipation of the upcoming ski and snowboard season. Preparing for ski and snowboard season is a rewarding endeavor that requires dedication and a well-structured training plan.

Incorporating long-distance runs and hikes into your fitness routine is an effective way to prepare your body for it – and if you plan it right, it really doesn’t feel like a workout. By building endurance, leg strength, core stability, and mental toughness, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the hill with confidence. Remember to consult with a doctor, start slowly, and implement proper techniques to ensure a safe and successful training period. And stretch; remember to stretch. Also remember to create a balanced routine that includes both activities and allow for adequate recovery.

The foliage is electric and the weather is perfect to get your sweat on outdoors. So lace up your running shoes or hiking boots, hit the trails, and get ready for another incredible winter season on the mountain.

Ski Bindings Made Simple

Ski Bindings Made Simple

Bindings are rugged little devices, but like any mechanical unit they can wear out quickly if not kept clean and lubricated.

Ski Binding Check

At the beginning of the season, do a binding check. Annual shop inspections of the ski/boot/binding system will reveal any deviations in the release system that may require a binding to be re-set or retired if it won’t release within a standardized range.

Indemnified Ski Bindings

After a given binding model has been off the market for several seasons, the binding company’s liability insurer can decline indemnity coverage for a model it deems obsolete due to its age and likely condition. If shop personnel inform you they “can’t work on this binding,” they’re acting within established guidelines over which they have no control. No matter how much you once loved them, if your bindings are no longer indemnified, it’s time for them to go.

Jackson Hogen

ski bindings

DO:

  • Determine your binding setting. It’s based on height, weight, age, boot sole length and skiing style. Any shop tech can help you do this in about 10 seconds.
  • Pick a binding with your setting number (often called a “DIN” number) near the middle of the binding range. If your setting is “6,” a binding with a 3 – 10 scale should be fine.
  • Ask a salesperson about any special features that may make one binding more suitable for you than another.

DON’T:

  • Continue to use a binding the manufacturer no longer indemnifies.
  • Use a boot with a touring sole or walking sole that’s incompatible with your Alpine bindings.
  • Use a boot with worn-out soles.
  • Mix a child’s normal boot sole with an adult binding.
How to Pick Your Perfect Pole

How to Pick Your Perfect Pole

If you’re a new skier, you’ll be amazed by the variety of options for a seemingly simple stick with a grip on one end and a point on the other. But entry-level and occasional skiers need not complicate a ski pole purchase.

The Grip

The one part of the ski pole you feel most intimately about is the grip. Better grips are more ergonomically shaped and multi-material, for better feel. All grips include some form of strap, which comes in a variety of materials and configurations. The most common strap is an adjustable loop designed so your hand can rest against the strap when skiing. The most common mistake is grabbing the grip by putting your hand down through the loop; the strap only works for you if you put your hand up through it.

How to Size Poles

Sizing ski poles is simple. Turn the ski pole upside down, so the tip is pointed upwards. Grab the pole under the basket and put the handle on the ground just in front of your feet. If the size is right, your elbow will be at a right angle, with your forearm parallel with the ground.

Types of Shafts

As with grips, shafts come in a variety of materials and configurations. The most widely used material remains aluminum, although carbon and carbon-laced composites have their fans. You can even find ski poles made of bamboo, if that fits your retro style.

Aluminum comes in many grades, from an entry-level price around $40 to high-end styles that can cost as much as $250. The best aluminum shafts are lightweight and tapered for better balance.

The first carbon ski poles were dubbed “pencil poles,” for these highly flexible, narrow cylinders were about pencil-thick. Carbon’s edge over aluminum is its resistance to crimping when bent. Today carbon is available in several shaft styles.

Composite shafts mix carbon with cheaper materials to provide a sturdy, lightweight alternative to aluminum at less expensive prices. And if you really want bamboo, this all-natural solution comes with a long, padded and strapless grip.

Jackson Hogen

leki pole

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