by Robin McGee Pregnant with my first child, I was excited and nervous about what lay ahead. People’s reactions to the news varied from “Parenthood is the best”, to “You better ski and ride your bike now, because you will never be able to again." Hmmm… I knew that my family would come first, but coming from a background of competitive Nordic skiing and mountain biking, I had hoped to be able to continue to enjoy these activities postpartum. Fortunately, the doomsayers were wrong. My son is now 11 months old and I have been able to exercise plenty and even do...

by Aaron Buckalew school.no Finally, the latest procedures for prepping brand new skis don't have to be a professionals secret, and selecting your wax for the day no longer has to be a shot in the dark. The Swix Waxing School is your access to all the information you need on the latest waxing techniques and waxes. Swix School is an interactive application run by Flash Player. You will need to make sure you are updated with this free program. There is an update link at www.swixschool.no or ( Click here to get updated ). Once you have Flash Player 7.0 simply click on the Swix School graphic (appears...

by Jenn Staph Sometimes a different take on winter is what’s required to truly immerse yourself in winter. For those who prefer to slow down and really notice the details – wildlife, their tracks, and the many other things that create the magic of winter – snowshoes might just be the ticket. Conversely, snowshoes today are also available in smaller models conducive to running on snow. So for those who prefer a more active outing, don’t overlook the sport of snowshoeing. Certainly one of the sport’s appealing attributes is its accessibility – there’s nothing...

by Jenn Staph When Skinny Skis first opened its doors 30 years ago, the name was an apt moniker given the single basic style of nordic ski that was available at the time – long, narrow boards whose skinny profile (designed to minimize friction on the snow) easily distinguished them from their alpine counterparts. Times have certainly changed, and while many nordic touring skis remain skinny, there are now wide skis, mid-fat skis, skinny skis and everything in between. The different shapes are designed to accommodate different kinds of conditions as well as different skiing styles. Do you...

by Janet Munro Never underestimate the importance of taking care of your body from the inside as much as you do on the outside. Your body is your engine. Maintain it well and supply it with the right fuel so that it will perform for you. While doing your bike riding this summer trying to get stronger and in better shape remember to hydrate and nourish your body properly. Before you even get out the door for your bike ride it’s important that you hydrate. The easiest and best way to do this is by drinking a sports drink. They hydrate you as well as fuel you for your ride. Sports drinks improve...

by Robin McGee Whether you are running-impaired or just looking for a low-impact aerobic workout, cycling is a great way to train in the summer and fall. Road and mountain biking provide a low impact way to cross train and help you build up your base for ski season. Road biking's smooth, repetitive nature is similar to the ease and fluidity of classic skiing and can be a great way to build aerobic fitness without stressing your joints. Cross-country mountain biking on varied terrain is perfect to fit in some intervals and enjoy the trails. Additionally, the quick descents and technical terrain...