If you backcountry ski or ice climb - it's a bit of waste of the precious season. March is prime season for both especially in the Presidentials. I'd be beating myself while drooling over those ravines you pass by. JMO.

An awesome idea is to get up there a couple/3 times before the traverse, if possible, over the winter, to familiarize yourself with a couple escape options off the ridge. There are many great day climbs available and this will also build your skills.
Everyone does Lions Head Trail in the winter and it is your most likely option for help if something near Washington were to occur.

Most of my rock climbing buddies won't even consider climbing ice. So I have a hard time finding partners. That being so, I did manage to get out twice on ice last winter.

But I certainly don't consider it a waste. I think alpine type hiking climbing is another part of the sport.

I do both and the Presi traverse stacks up very nicely against either. March is actually even a bit early for skiing, some might say. Of course, if you're gonna make the trip there, may as well stick around a few extra days and get all 3 in.

Just an update.

My girlfriend and I went up to NH and climbed Mt. Washington. Wow, I need to get in to better shape. It really kicked my but. I will have to move the March date back a bit.

J@son, consider some minor traverses, loops, etc. as part of your training. The Catskills are closer to home, and you can certainly get your self ready for the Pres right here in the valley. Or, the Dacks. The Great Range, McIntyre Range and many others will offer all the winter conditions you may want for preparation except maybe for the big winds.
Good luck.

That sounds like a plan. Thanks for the advice.

Yes, it was worth it.

You will probably find a pretty rapid improvement if you get in a big day at least every other weekend and try to do at least something every day, even if it is just a 20 minute walk.
Lots of small things add up quickly on a big day and getting your systems dialed makes a big difference. Try not to get sweaty, drink small amounts of water every half hour(preferably without having to stop, take off your pack, pull out the bottle, stand there a few minutes and re-place the bottle and pack each time. A camelback or insulated bottle holder on the waist belt of the pack is big), and figure out what you like to wear in different conditions so you don't have to keep switching. Enjoy.