Olympic Snowboarder Chase Josey Dispels the Biggest Misconceptions About the Halfpipe

Men's Health
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Olympic snowboarder Chase Josey shed light on the challenges of halfpipe snowboarding, dispelling common misconceptions about the sport. While many assume the difficulty lies in performing complex tricks mid-air, Josey explained that the real challenge is mastering balance and control while riding the edge of the pipe, maintaining speed and precision during each hit. Josey revealed that his training focuses heavily on building strength in the posterior chain—legs, glutes, and calves—to handle the physical demands of the sport. He emphasized exercises like single-leg squats and yoga for improving mobility and explosiveness. Despite being a snowboarder, he also incorporates upper-body workouts, including pull-ups and pushups, to maintain overall fitness and prevent muscle imbalances. When it comes to nutrition, Josey shared his Olympic experience in Italy, where he indulged in Italian cuisine like Carbonara pizza and pasta. He noted that staying fueled with protein is crucial for recovery, especially during intense training and competition periods. Away from the snowboard, Josey highlighted the importance of dynamic warm-ups and mobility work to stay prepared for cold weather competitions. He also shared insights into life in the Olympic Village, where he spends most of his time with close friends and roommates, emphasizing the camaraderie among athletes. For readers interested in health and fitness, Josey’s approach offers valuable lessons on blending strength training with cardio for optimal performance. His emphasis on functional exercises and balanced nutrition provides a roadmap for anyone looking to improve their physical abilities, whether on the slopes or in everyday life.
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Originally published on Men's Health on 2/19/2026