Yoga for Snowboarding/ Skiing

As a snowboarder and/or skier body mobility is extremely important. The greater your mobility, the more control you have over your board and your body. Having the agility and flexibility to maneuver your board so you maximize your shred time is the ultimate goal. 

Stretching and mobility exercises help prevent injuries as well as preparing the body for all the twists and turns. Here are some easy yoga exercises you can do from the comfort of your own home to improve hip flexibility and hip mobility:

The following exercises are best followed in sequential order. Each posture prepares you for the next one. You will need 1 yoga mat or some thick blankets to rest on. Cushions and pillows are also a great help. It's important that you have enough cushion for your knees so that you do not encounter any pain.

Reclined bound angle pose

Sit back on your mat or and bring the soles of your feet together forming a triangle. Keeping your hands by your side, palms open, relax into the pose. You can place cushions or pillows below your knees to make it more comfortable. Try to relax and stay here in this posture for at least 5 minutes.

Thread the needle

Staying on your back, bring the soles of your feet to the floor, and take a deep inhale. As you exhale cross the right leg over the left knee, grab your right thigh and pull it towards you so that your feet are in the air. Your head stays down on the mat as you breathe. Stay here for 2.5 minutes and then repeat the same posture on the left side.

Low lunge pose 

Find your way onto your mat so that you are kneeling with the left knee and your right leg is in a low lunge position at a 90 degree angle. Feel free to find your edge and bring the left leg as far back as you need to (left knee is on the mat) so that you can feel the stretch on your right hamstring. Place your hands on your right leg and breathe deeply. Stay here for at least 1 minute before repeating the same exercise on the other side.

Half pigeon

Finally the most relaxing pose. From low lunge bring your right leg down onto the mat dropping your right shin and thigh to the floor, while  keeping the right knee in line with the right right hip. The left leg is long, resting on the floor with the top of the left foot on the mat. If you find this posture already to be too tight you can sit on a block or a cushion to allow more opening in your hips. From here slowly bring your upper body down onto the mat so that your forehead is resting either on the mat or on your hands. Stay here for 2.5 minutes on each side. 

Remember to breathe, as you breathe you create more space and opening into your body. Don't rush, take your time, and connect with your body and breath. If you repeat these exercises at least 3 times a week you will notice a great improvement in your mobility and overall flexibility. 

Namaste,

Bernardette 

To see more exercises be sure to follow Bernardette's IG page here- https://www.instagram.com/bernardetteyoga/