1. Start With Stretching
A wonderful and adventurous way to enjoy the snow pack mountain ranges is to snowshoe. Many national parks offer clearly mapped trails detailing the level of skill. Just taking off on snowshoes is not advisable, even though it is a lot like taking a walk. You still have to stretch your body before snowshoeing. The key muscles to stretch are quadriceps, hamstrings, hips and buttocks because of the wide spread in the leg the snowshoes cause as your traverse on the trail.
2. Bend the Knee for a Nice Calf Stretch
Calves can get pretty tight while snowshoeing. You start by standing in a comfortable position either with shoes on or off. Point your toes forward while facing forward, too. Take your right leg and place it in front of you as you slightly bend forward the leg. Now to really feel the stretch, gradually flex the ankle of the opposite leg. Continue the stretch as you breathe normally. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds, then repeat the same stretch on the other leg.
3. Stretch Hamstrings Before Hitting the Snow
It's smart to stretch those hamstrings before you trek in the snow. Start by placing your right leg in front of your body with the heel on the ground, point toes up. The left heel stays flat, too. Relax the legs without locking them. Gradually lean back and sort of rest on the back of your heels. Breathe normally and hold the hamstring stretch for 30 seconds. You should also feel the stretch in the buttocks. Perform the same stretch on the other hamstring.
4. Quadriceps and Hips Need a Good Stretch
The quadriceps is one of the largest muscle groups on the body. Stretching these muscles is absolutely essential. Start by standing with the left foot flat and flex the right leg as you reach your hand behind you to grab the foot's ankle and bring it to your buttock. If you need balance, do this stretch near a tree. Breathe freely and hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat the same stretch on the other set of quadriceps. Immediately after the quadriceps stretch place the right ankle over the left quadricep and flex the standing leg. You'll feel this stretch in the hip. Hold 20 seconds and repeat on the other side.
5. Upper Body Snowshoeing Stretches
You need to prepare your upper body for the hefty trek through the snow. Start by standing comfortably with feet apart at shoulder width. Keep your arms to your side and gradually bend to one side. Hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds and then perform the same stretch on the other side of the body. A second stretch starts with standing relaxed, your hands behind your head. While breathing normally and without arching your back, slowly pull your elbows back. Hold 10 to 20 seconds and feel the stretch in your shoulders. Perform this stretch 5 times.
