As snow skis are hung up for the season, it is important for skiers to shift focus from time on the slopes to off-season training. A well-rounded regimen includes cardio, agility, and strength training to keep your legs strong and body ready for the slopes a few months down the road. Keeping in shape is not only about preserving muscle already gained, it can also increase performance and prevent injury when the chairlifts turn again next season.

Here are a few ways to keep those ski legs and other key body parts strong, even when you’re not taking to the slopes:

Cardio

Your heart is a muscle and it needs strengthening too! Cardio workouts will look different for each person depending on your preference and athletic ability. For some, a brisk walk is a great way to get your heart rate up, while others may choose to jog or run.

If you are looking for a cardio workout that also helps strengthen leg muscles, roller blading is the way to go. Check out this page to learn about rollerblading’s partnership with the Professional Ski Instructors of America and download their Skate to Ski workout app.

Legs

This is probably the most obvious, but get those legs moving! A range of lower body workouts can help keep your legs strong and ready to ski. Some of the more common workouts are squats and lunges, but remember to strengthen and stabilize your knees as well. Knees take a major beating on the slopes and giving them some TLC in the off season will keep you strong for seasons to come.

Check out these knee stabilizing exercises from Healthline here.

Glutes

One of the most underutilized lower body muscles is our glutes. Glute muscles are important for posture, helping prevent injury, as well as balance — all important elements to a day on the slopes.

Check out this article for different glute exercises to try this summer.

Core

Core muscles are the body’s stabilizer, keeping us upright and balanced throughout our turns on the snow. Proper skiing technique requires a quiet upper body with a majority of movement happening from the waist down. Without core strength, keeping your upper body still will not be an easy task. When you think of core workouts, most target your abs, but don’t forget to strengthen your back as well!

Agility

Snow skiing requires rapid movements and quick direction changes. Training your body to react swiftly can be the difference between a relaxing day on the snow and a fall and possible injury.

Check out this article for some home agility workout inspiration.

Flexibility

Stretching after workouts can help ease muscle soreness as well as help prevent future injury. Make it a point to stretch out the muscles used after a workout — and do it after skiing in the winter as well.

Maintaining a workout routine is essential for a strong ski season next year. Combining strength exercises with cardio workouts and agility drills will not only keep you fit throughout the summer, but also give you the confidence and ability to hit the slopes with ease when the first snow falls.

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Lauren Loria-Corbat is a writer and photographer who skis, rock climbs, hikes and backpacks. She loves introducing people to outdoor sports through journalism as well as hands-on teaching as a ski and climbing instructor.