Brent Kearney

Every year, it seems, no matter how dedicated I am about pre-season training, the first few days are always a killer on the legs. However, this year it was a bit different, and I don’t think it had anything to do with training.

This summer, aside from trail running, I started participating in two new sports: mountain biking and rock climbing. One thing that they both have in common, if you’re striving to do them well, is how important it is to be aware of and in control of your level of exertion, and the efficiency with which you move. If you’re biking up a steep hill, you will find it much easier if your upper body is relaxed as much as possible. Just flexing the muscles in your upper body causes your heart to work much harder, and that leaves less energy for your legs, which need it the most.

In rock climbing it is even more important to be aware of how much work you’re doing; you need to use the minimal amount of energy to climb, or you’ll find that you will get tired very quickly. The fear factor of the sport, our natural reaction to heights, is a major obstacle to maintaining a calm, relaxed state of mind and body. The more relaxed you are, the better that you will be able to concentrate on the task at hand, and the more efficiently you will climb. So you must learn to ignore the fear, and concentrate, relax, and enjoy the moment.

The same principles apply to skiing. My first run of the season was a steep black diamond run, littered with moguls, drop-offs, rocks and trees. The powder was soft and deep, and I was having a great time pounding through it. I didn’t make it too far though, before I had to stop and rest — my legs were on fire. I thought that I was in pretty good shape before the season, so I was slightly mystified at the same-old burning legs syndrome. Then it occurred to me: how relaxed am I, as I dodge obstacles and race toward the precipice below? How is my breathing?

As it turned out, my body was very tense, and my heart was probably working twice as hard as it needed to. My breathing was either quick and shallow, or I was actually holding it. As soon as I realized this and corrected it, there was a profound difference in how my legs felt. No more burning. I could ski the runs top-to-bottom.

So the tip is: take deep, slow breaths. Relax your upper body, and tighten your abs enough to give good support and power for making turns. Flex your legs only as much as needed, and where they’re needed. You’ll enjoy skiing so much more!