Fairfield-Echo.com

(HealthDayNews) -- Get in shape for ski season by doing strength training exercises that focus on your leg, abdominal, and back muscles, advises Aspen Valley Hospital.

Crunches are a great way to build up your abs:

• Keep your knees bent and your spine flat. Lie on your back with your feet on the floor. Cross your arms on your chest, and gently lift your torso. Don't bring your shoulder blades more than 4-6 inches off the floor.

Stretches keep your back flexible:

• Lie on your back and pull one knee into your chest and hold. Repeat with the other leg.
• Still on your back, keep it flat, feet together, and rotate your knees first to one side, then the other.
• Put your hands on your hips, and keep your chin tucked in as you arch backward.

Hold stretches for a few seconds and repeat each one eight times.