Which is best??

OK folks, I'm a skier with pretty good level of fitness, but i want to improve my leg stamina a touch as I've got 13 days coming up in January. I already do a lot of bike work (spinning etc) and a few weights and core exercises.

What I would like your thoughts on is this. I've got plenty of time for some extra gym sessions over the Xmas break and which one of these do you think will give more more benefit for my leg strength/stamina-

a. Treadmill work
b. Cross Trainer
c Stepper

I personnally think the old fashioned stepper has the edge, but then i'm no expert!

Thoughts appreciated!

I have been doing the stepper. I am not a fitness expert but it does seem to stop my legs aching when skiing. :D

I'd go for the cross trainer especially if you are already doing a lot of spinning. I'd avoid the running because it is high impact and a stepper because they are a waste of time, there are far more effective methods to improve your fitness/strength/anything you suspect you could improve by using a stepper.

Pablo,
I thought running on a treadmill in a gym didn't cause high impact problems? I try to run on grass as much as possible, rather than on the road, for similar reasons.

Ally

AllyG wrote:Pablo,
I thought running on a treadmill in a gym didn't cause high impact problems? I try to run on grass as much as possible, rather than on the road, for similar reasons.

Ally

It is still relatively high impact...

Our gym has got a Wave Excite - ideal for skiing preparation: This is the one where you have two pedals which move sideways and down. Its hard work, but progressive resistance, so not as harsh as a treadmill. Plus it seems to emulate that sideways push you need to develop for ski turns.