This exercise is designed to strengthen the muscles of your abdominals. This is a great exercise for skiing and snowboarding because it isolates the lower abdominals, which you use continuously to hold your body upright as you make your way down a ski run. Strong abdominals also help to protect your lower back from injury.

To start, lie on your back with your knees at a 90-degree angle. Your feet should be f

lat on the floor. Contract your abdominal muscles and press your lower back into the ground. Raise your legs up while keeping your lower back pressed down into the ground. Move your legs as if you are riding a bicycle. The two most important things to remember while you perform this exercise are; to keep your stomach contracted and to keep your lower back pressed firmly against the ground. If you feel your lower back lift up off of the floor stop immediately and readjust your position. You should feel your stomach area, not your neck or lower back. Do 10 repetitions per leg, rest for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat three times.

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.