This winter, action athletes will battle each other on the slopes and half-pipe for snow supremacy. One of America’s top stunters is 18-year-old snowboarder Ellery Hollingsworth, the first female ever to complete a Backside 900 in the half-pipe competition.
Keep an eye out for Ellery flying and spinning above the half-pipe this winter, and test out this strength and balance exercise she uses to get ready for the pipe.
Lateral Board Squat
• Assume athletic stance with balls of feet on edge of 2×4
• Lower into squat position; shift weight onto right leg
• Drive up and left into start position
• Repeat to left side
• Continue in alternating fashion for specified reps
Sets/Reps: 2-3×10-15 each side
Benefits: Injury prevention // Balance and strength to absorb force when landing jumps