I like to snowboard but the last few times out my calves were burning while I was coming down the hill, does anyone have tips on what exercises I can do to strenghten them. I have access to either weight machines or free weights. Thanks for the help.

Ive heard that the calf burning isn't just from using the calves, but also from your flexibility and range of motion. So strength training for the calves is good...jumping rope probably is great, but in addition make sure to stretch regularly to increase your calf range of motion to make the most use out of your muscles during snowboarding.

Those and squats for the thighs, or wall sits...Ive been doing both to prepare for boarding season, but we have gotten SQUAT for good snow in years. /sigh

I got the book at the library and made my own equipment after seeing a review in O magazine. It's one of the "core" exercise schools--working all the little muscles by staying off balance the entire workout.

Equipment:

1. Slant board, stand on one foot, do knee bends front, back, uphill; change legs, repeat. Use weights when you get stable.

2. 4" PVC pipe, 2 pieces ~ 24" long each--stand on each piece, do knee bends.

3. Lots of exercises on a ball.

4. A mobile dome-like thingy they want $175 for and I substituted bowling balls. Walk across the room using 2 ~ 6' poles for balance. Turn around, walk back.

Look at the book in the bookstore and get a whole lot more ideas. I was miffed at the book--only 50 pages of exercise and a lot of diet (Zone) stuff and RECIPES--fortunately I didn't buy it first!!