We’ve taken a few strides into the dryland season already. It’s likely you have been out running a bit, or have gotten the bike tuned-up in anticipation of some warmer weather for riding. Here’s a few things to check off the list now that winter is in the rearview.
1. Snow ski storage
There’s lots of specific instructions out there, but it really doesn’t have to be complicated. Take care of your skis by cleaning the kick zones with a dedicated kick zone cleaner/wax remover, and clean the glide zones with a dedicated glide zone cleaner. After that has been done, make sure the glide zones are brushed with a metal brush and then put on a layer of ironed-in paraffin wax of your choice for the summer.
To glide wax over the kickzone or not? Doesn’t matter.
To use blue wax, or red, or yellow? Doesn’t matter.
To “soak” in one wax, or “harden” with another? It doesn’t really matter.
Just be sure to store your skis for the summer like you’d store your oatmeal or crackers…a cool, dark place without excessive humidity or excruciating thermal swings.
2. Shoes and running
As a definitive non-expert in running, I will defer to professionals on exactly when to change shoes. But it’s likely that if you got new shoes last spring and ran all summer/fall in them, you might consider a new pair.
If you’re ok not having the “best and latest” shoes you can often find a previous-year model online for a huge discount.
The folks at Skirack, however, are a good bet to help you analyze your running form and help identify some of the best footwear or orthotics for your feet and gait.
It’s important to start out the running season in a controlled way, and for an outline feel free to take a look at this April Running Progression doc…despite the title, you could use this as a 4-week starting protocol for any month you are working back into running.
3. Strength, PT, “Pre-hab”
Doing some work in the gym is one of the best decisions you can make all year, but never moreso than in the spring when we are transitioning to new forms of movement like running or cycling. Having enough strength to gradually increase our training volume and intensity will help stave off injury.
Masters, we are still moving right along with our Wednesday strength sessions at the MNCC!
4. Rollerskiing
For some it’s a dreaded term, but now is a good time to at least make sure you are ready to rollerski, even if you don’t begin yet. For reference, Juniors don’t usually start rollerskiing until early/mid-May, but now is still the time to be checking things like:
- Wheels
- Pole tips
- Helmet
- Bindings
If you need new skis, our yearly order through Skirack is available until May 4th! You can check that page out here.
Bright, visible clothing and all the right gear
