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Ready for First Chair

Indoor equipment for alpine and Nordic skiers. From the steeps at Jackson Hole and the powder at Grand Targhee to the Snowy Range and the Nordic trails, snow activities were Wyoming's largest outdoor recreation activity in 2020.1 The legs, lungs and balance that carry you through a long day on snow are built in the off-season.

See the Equipment → Sample Session Find a Local Dealer
What the Snow Demands

Strong legs, steady hips, big lungs

Alpine skiing asks the legs to absorb turn after turn on the way down. Nordic skiing asks the whole body, arms included, to keep pushing for miles. Both need balance and control. Local backcountry skiers near the Tetons average about 25 backcountry ski days and 15 cross-country ski days a season.2

Leg Strength & Endurance

Quads, glutes and hamstrings that hold a tuck and absorb bumps all day.

Lateral Power

Quick, controlled side-to-side movement for edge changes and moguls.3

Balance & Hip Control

Stable hips and a strong core to stay centered over the skis.4

Upper Body & Engine

For Nordic skiers, poling power and a big aerobic base.5

The Equipment

The best commercial equipment for Wyoming skiers

Every piece below is chosen for how skiers actually train, and for how it holds up under daily use in a Wyoming facility.

01

Ski Trainer Our Pick

Concept2 SkiErg · Commercial

A ski trainer recreates the double-pole pull of Nordic skiing indoors, working the arms, back and core along with the legs. Research on cross-country skiers has found that adding upper-body sprint intervals built more upper-body strength than continuous double-poling work alone.5 Our pick is the commercial Concept2 SkiErg. For facilities with a Torque rig, the Relentless Ripper Pro add-on is a strong alternative:

Ski trainerResistanceMountingSize & weightStands out for
Concept2 SkiErg Our PickAir flywheelWall, or a rolling floor stand (sold separately)Wall: about 20 × 16 × 85 in, 41 lb; floor stand: 23.5 × 50 × 85 in, plus 35 lbThe gym standard, with the PM5 performance monitor
Torque Relentless Ripper Pro10 magnetic levelsAdd-on that mounts to Torque racks and rigs, other uprights or walls; takes no floor space24.5 × 21 × 39.1 in, 50 lbSingle- and double-pole pulls, ergonomic grips, and a monitor showing time, strokes per minute, watts, calories and distance
Our pick for most facilities: the Concept2 SkiErg, on a wall or floor stand.
For a rig or busy class space: the Ripper Pro mounts to your rack or wall, so it adds a station without using floor space.

Mounted ski trainers stand about 9 feet tall, so check ceiling height before ordering. Specifications from Concept2 and Torque Fitness product information, October 2026.6

See the commercial SkiErg → Torque Relentless Ripper Pro mounted on a Torque rig Or see the Ripper Pro add-on →
Find a Local Dealer →
02

Rowers Compare & Choose

Concept2 · Torque · Matrix

Rowing builds the big aerobic engine Nordic skiers need and makes a strong low-impact interval tool for alpine skiers, working the legs, back and arms in every stroke. Three commercial rowers, side by side. Tap any rower for its full specs:

Concept2 RowErgConcept2 RowErg → Torque Stealth Air Rower ProTorque Stealth Rower Pro → Matrix RowerMatrix Rower →
RowerResistanceMax userSize (L × W × H)ConsoleWarrantyStands out for
Concept2 RowErgAir flywheel with damper500 lb (Concept2 test); 300 lb (EN standard)96 × 24 inPM5; Bluetooth, ErgData plus 40+ appsLimited 2-yr / 5-yrThe industry benchmark: scores compare with results anywhere. The lightest here, widest app support, and a tall-leg version for easier access
Torque Stealth Air Rower ProAir fanNot published94.4 × 39.2 × 25.8 inSpeed, distance, calories and more; ANT+, Bluetooth, 5 kHz heart rate10-yr frame, 5-yr structural moving parts, 2-yr other parts, 1-yr laborA Concept2-like feel with a wider resistance range: an easier start and a higher top end. Rated to 1 million cycles; the longest warranty here
Matrix RowerMagnetic, 10 levels350 lb87.6 × 21.5 × 38 inSelf-powered backlit LCD: time, distance, SPM, strokes, watts, HR, calories, 500 m split7-yr frame, 3-yr parts, 3-yr labor, 90-day wear itemsThe only magnetic option: a smooth, quiet, repeatable stroke. Seat lock and quick-release heel buckles for fast changeovers; tilts upright to store
For testing and team benchmarks: the Concept2 RowErg, the standard for testing and racing.
For the longest warranty: the Torque Stealth Air Rower Pro, with a 10-year frame and 5-year structural parts.
For busy classes and circuits: the Matrix Rower, quiet magnetic resistance, fast changeovers and 3-year labor coverage.
For tight spaces: the Matrix Rower tilts upright and the Concept2 and Torque split in two without tools.

The Matrix Rower needs about 8 feet of ceiling clearance when stored upright. Specifications from Concept2, Torque Fitness and Matrix Fitness product information, October 2026.7

Find a Local Dealer →
03

Plyo Boxes Our Pick

REP Fitness 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes

The U.S. Ski Team's essential exercises include lateral box jumps for agility and mogul control, and weighted single-leg box squats for strength and balance.3 REI's ski plan, built by a physical therapist, also uses lateral ski jumps to build power for descents.4

Our pick is the REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box: a wood core wrapped in soft foam, so a short landing means a bump instead of a scraped shin.8

Order Direct from REP Fitness ↗
Why it wins for skiers
  • Three heights in one: flip the box for lower or higher jumps and squats8
  • Forgiving landings: a soft foam shell over a solid wood core8
  • Sure footing: a textured vinyl cover that resists slipping8
  • Room for weighted work: a 400-pound weight capacity8

Good to know: use the boxes on rubber flooring or turf, not smooth or slippery floors.8

04

Power Racks, Barbells & Plates Our Pick

Matrix Magnum Power Rack + Xult bars and plates

Squats, lunges and back work build the legs and posterior chain that hold a skier in position all day. REI's ski plan centers on the quads, glutes, hamstrings and hips.4

Our pick is the Matrix Magnum Power Rack, a fully enclosed rack rated for 900 pounds of training weight, loaded with Xult bars and bumper plates.9

Matrix Magnum Power Rack See the rack, bars and plates → Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • Safe heavy squats: a fully enclosed design with adjustable safety bars9
  • Heavy-duty: 7-gauge steel uprights rated for 900 pounds9
  • Complete station: Xult Olympic bars, trap bars and bumper plates9
  • Organized: 10 plate horns plus bar and band storage9
05

Plate-Loaded Squat & Lunge Our Pick

Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge

Alpine skiing is quad-dominant: members hold a flexed-knee stance and absorb turn after turn. A plate-loaded squat machine lets them build that quad endurance with high reps and a guided path, and independent lifting arms make it a single-leg trainer too.

Our pick is the Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge, which handles squats and lunges with independent lifting arms for one leg at a time.10

Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge See the Squat / Lunge specs → Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • Independent arms: each side works on its own, for balanced squats and lunges10
  • Heavy-duty: rated for 540 pounds of training weight, with a 36-pound starting resistance10
  • Easy to load: four user weight horns plus three plate storage horns10
  • Room for everyone: a 350-pound maximum user weight10

Space check: about 58.5 by 67 inches of floor. Plates sold separately.10 Also consider: the new Magnum Pendulum Squat, with a deep range of motion and a multi-angle foot platform.11

06

Stair Climber Our Pick

Matrix Endurance ClimbMill

Long climbs build the leg endurance skiers need for top-to-bottom runs, and for skinning uphill in the backcountry.

Our pick is the Matrix Endurance ClimbMill, with extra-deep steps, 25 resistance levels and a 400-pound user capacity.12

Matrix Endurance ClimbMill See the ClimbMill specs → Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • Leg endurance: from a steady skin-track pace to sprints, 24 to 162 steps per minute12
  • Room for a pack: users up to 400 pounds, for weighted climbs12
  • Secure: a locking staircase, perimeter handlebars and infrared auto-stop12
07

Medicine Balls Our Pick

Torque X-IMPACT D-Balls & Medicine Balls

Overhead medicine ball throws are another of the U.S. Ski Team's essential exercises, building explosive jumping power.3 Rotational throws and chops train the core that keeps skiers centered.4

Our picks are Torque's X-IMPACT D-Balls for slams and heavy throws and Torque Medicine Balls for partner and rebound drills.6

Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • X-IMPACT D-Balls: 10 to 50 pounds, plus 100 pounds; gel-filled with a textured rubber shell for slams and traditional medicine ball moves6
  • Medicine Balls: 4 to 12 pounds; grippy rubber with a light bounce for partner and rebound drills6
  • Storage: ball packages sized to fit Torque storage6
08

Core & Balance Station Our Pick

Total Gym ELEVATE Core ADJ

Hip control and core strength keep skiers balanced over their skis.4 Plank-based core work trains the abdominals, back, hips and shoulders together.

Our pick is the Total Gym ELEVATE Core ADJ, a gliding plank trainer with seven resistance levels.13

Order Direct from Total Gym ↗
Why it wins for skiers
  • Whole-core training: abdominals, back, hips and shoulders13
  • Grows with members: seven resistance levels and more than 15 exercises13
  • Room for everyone: a 400-pound maximum user weight13

Add nearby: mini-bands for the U.S. Ski Team's band walks, which target the stabilizing muscles of the hips.3

09

Balance Trainer Our Pick

BOSU Pro Balance Trainer

Skiing is a balance sport. REI's physical therapist builds hip control and stability over the skis into every ski plan,4 and an unstable surface brings that challenge into the gym: single-leg stands, squats, lunges and lateral hops.

Our pick is the BOSU Pro Balance Trainer, the commercial version of the classic half-dome trainer, designed for personal trainers, physical therapists and fitness instructors.14

Order Direct from BOSU ↗
Why it wins for skiers
  • Built for gyms: designed for commercial use, with a burst-resistant ribbed dome14
  • Stays put: a patented non-slip, non-marking rubberized base14
  • Room for everyone: a 350-pound maximum user weight14
  • Two-sided: dome-up for balance work, flip it over for planks and push-ups
  • Compact: 25.5 inches across, 8.5 inches tall and 15.4 pounds14

Facility tip: store several on an Xult bumper/BOSU rack to keep the floor clear.

10

Dumbbells Our Pick

Xult by Matrix

Dumbbell rows, single-leg squats and walking lunges round out a ski program.3, 4

Our pick is Xult by Matrix, with dumbbells from 2.5 to 150 pounds across three styles and matching racks.15

Xult hex urethane dumbbell See the Xult free weights → Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • Weights for every member: round rubber, multi-sided and hex urethane styles15
  • Stays put: hex heads won't roll during floor work15
  • Organized: matching Xult dumbbell racks15
11

Plate-Loaded Hip Thrust Our Pick

Matrix Magnum Standing Hip Thrust

Strong glutes hold the hips steady over the skis and help absorb turn after turn. A hip thrust machine trains them directly, without balancing a barbell.

Our pick is the Matrix Magnum Standing Hip Thrust, an upright, plate-loaded glute machine from Matrix's new Magnum range.16

Matrix Magnum Standing Hip Thrust See the Standing Hip Thrust → Find a Local Dealer →
Why it wins for skiers
  • Glute power: built for targeted glute work, for strong, stable hips on every run16
  • Fits every member: adjustable range of motion and handles at varying heights16
  • Sure footing: an enlarged, textured footplate for stability and easy entry16
  • Compact: an upright design with a small footprint16
Sample Indoor Session

A preseason ski workout

A session a facility can post on the wall, built from the U.S. Ski Team's essential exercises and REI's ski plan, adapted for the equipment above.

Start early. REI's physical therapist recommends starting ski exercises about six to eight weeks before the season,4 and fitting each exercise to your body. Check with a healthcare provider before starting a new program.
  1. Warm-upEasy pace on a rower or ski trainer.
    5 min
  2. Band walksMini-band at the ankles, side steps each way.3
    3 rounds
  3. Lateral box jumpsLow soft plyo box, quick side-to-side.3
    3 rounds
  4. Single-leg squat/lungeMatrix Squat / Lunge, one leg at a time, steady tempo.
    3 × 10 each
  5. Single-leg balanceStand on one leg on a BOSU dome; add a slow squat as you progress.
    3 × 30 sec each
  6. Overhead med ball throwsSquat, then explode up and toss.3
    3 × 8
  7. Rower intervals250 meters hard, easy recovery between.
    6 rounds
  8. Ski trainer intervalsHard double-pole pulls, easy recovery between.
    8 rounds
Build It for Your Facility

A ski conditioning zone for every Wyoming facility

Every facility trains different people. Here is how we would build a ski training zone for each.

Parks & Recreation

Rec centers · Community centers

Preseason classes for every age and ability.

  • Concept2 SkiErgs on floor stands
  • Matrix Rowers for classes
  • REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes
  • Xult dumbbells
  • Torque medicine balls and mini-bands
  • BOSU Pro Balance Trainers
  • Total Gym ELEVATE Core ADJ

Schools & Universities

Ski teams · Nordic programs · Athletics

Strength, power and conditioning for teams.

  • Matrix Magnum Power Racks
  • Xult bars and bumper plates
  • Torque Relentless Ripper Pros added to the rig
  • Concept2 RowErgs for team testing
  • REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes
  • BOSU Pro Balance Trainers
  • Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge
  • Torque X-IMPACT D-Balls

24/7 Strength Gyms

Independent gyms · Strength hubs

Heavy-duty gear for members training on their own schedule.

  • Matrix Magnum Power Racks with Xult bars and plates
  • Matrix Endurance ClimbMill
  • Concept2 SkiErgs
  • Torque Stealth Air Rower Pro
  • Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge
  • Xult dumbbells
  • REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes

Private Clubs & Resorts

Athletic clubs · Ski resorts · Lodges

Premium preseason and après-ski training for members and guests.

  • Matrix Magnum MEGA Power Racks with Xult
  • Matrix Endurance ClimbMill
  • Concept2 SkiErgs or Ripper Pros
  • Matrix Rowers
  • Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge
  • Total Gym ELEVATE Core ADJ
  • BOSU Pro Balance Trainers
  • A recovery area with saunas or cold plunges
Ready to Build Your Ski Zone?

Find a Local Dealer to Request a Quote

For Matrix, Torque and Concept2 equipment, one click takes you straight to a local dealer's website for pricing, space planning, delivery and installation. No forms to fill out here. REP Fitness, Total Gym and BOSU products can be ordered directly from each company.

Go to a Local Dealer →Opens the dealer's website in a new tab

Training for something else? Find equipment for hunting, biking, golf and more.

← All Wyoming Activities

Sources

  1. U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis outdoor recreation statistics for 2020, as reported by Buckrail, November 24, 2021. Ski areas named from WyoFile.
  2. Headwaters Economics, Teton–West Yellowstone Region Backcountry Winter Recreation Economic Impact Analysis (Newcomb, 2013).
  3. OnTheSnow, "U.S. Ski Team's 5 Essential Ski Training Exercises," May 24, 2023.
  4. REI Expert Advice, "How to Train for Skiing," exercise plan by physical therapist Sam Van Gorder.
  5. Vandbakk K, et al., "Effects of upper-body sprint-interval training on strength and endurance capacities in female cross-country skiers," PLoS ONE, 2017.
  6. Concept2 and Torque Fitness product information, October 2026.
  7. Concept2, Torque Fitness and Matrix Fitness rower product information, October 2026.
  8. REP Fitness, REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes.
  9. Matrix Fitness, Magnum rack and Xult bar and plate product information. See our Matrix Magnum Power Rack page.
  10. Matrix Fitness, Magnum Squat / Lunge product sheet. See our Matrix Magnum Squat / Lunge page.
  11. Matrix Fitness, Magnum plate-loaded range announcement, November 2025.
  12. Matrix Fitness, Endurance ClimbMill LED Console specification sheet. See our Matrix Endurance ClimbMill page.
  13. Total Gym, ELEVATE Core ADJ product page.
  14. BOSU, BOSU Pro Balance Trainer.
  15. Matrix Fitness, Xult free weight product information. See our Xult Dumbbells, Kettlebells & Racks page.
  16. Matrix Fitness, Magnum Plate-Loaded range announcement, November 27, 2025, and Athletech News. See our Matrix Magnum Standing Hip Thrust page.