Generally, skiing is a bit harder on the legs than snowboarding, although there are other factors to consider when determining which one is harder on the body overall. Below, the snow sports experts at ASO Mammoth—the premier place for gear, equipment repair, and ski and snowboard rental in Mammoth—do a comparison to give you a better idea of what to expect with each activity as you get ready to test your skills and have some wintertime fun.
Snowboarding & the Upper Body
Snowboarding tends to involve more core strength than skiing, since the upper body is more involved than what’s common with skiing. With snowboarding, you’ll need to focus on your lower back and abdominal muscles. Crunches, yoga, Pilates, and paddleboarding are among the exercises and activities you can do to strengthen the muscles that need to be in good shape for snowboarding.
Also, beginner snowboarders tend to fall more often than skiers, which can be a bit harder on the body. Minimize this risk by getting regular exercise and using appropriate safety gear, such as knee pads.
Skiing & the Lower Body
Skiing involves more lower-body dexterity than snowboarding, although both activities require good leg strength. For this reason, you’ll want to pay more attention to leg-related exercises and activities as you prepare for a ski trip to a popular wintertime destination like Mammoth Mountain. There’s not too much impact on the knees with skiing. Instead, focus on general leg strengthening.
Beginners vs. Advanced Skiers & Snowboarders
If you’re just getting started with skiing or snowboarding, you’ll likely experience more falls and tumbles. This can certainly be harder on your body regardless of which activity you prefer. Even falling on snow can leave you with some aches and pains. However, advanced snowboarders and skiers also tend to put more stress on their bodies.
With skiing, extreme versions of this particular activity are harder on the body than traditional skiing. Basically, anything other than well-groomed snow areas tend to be a bit harder on the body. With snowboarding, you’ll put more stress on your body if you get to a point where you’re doing tricks and more challenging moves.
Preparing for Skiing & Snowboarding
You can ease the stress on your body when you’re getting ready to ski or snowboard by learning proper form and technique. A good way to do this is to sign up for lessons. Popular resorts like Mammoth Mountain have ski and snowboarding lessons you can take to get ready for either activity. Lessons are based on your skill level and designed for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. Also, develop an exercise routine that strengthens your core and leg muscles. Options include:
• Core-strengthening workouts
• Swimming or other water-based exercises
• Walking, jogging, or biking
• Using stationary bikes or elliptical machines
• Gentle stretches
• Hamstring exercises
• Lower back strengthening that focuses on spine-supporting muscles
No matter how you choose to hit the slopes, you’ll get a great workout. The best way to try out one or both of these sports is to rent high-quality equipment and get some tips from experienced pros. When you come to Mammoth, ski rentals, boots, poles, snowboard rentals—everything you need to enjoy both sports—are right here at ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for all the gear and services you need to have a blast on the mountain. Drop by our shop or give us a call at 760-965-3444.