Are you fit for skiing?
The best way to get in shape for ski season is to already be in shape. Personal training and staying active year round is clearly the best option as trying to get back in shape after a considerable amount of time off just plain sucks…
The difference between a good season and a great season? That’s often determined way before it starts. A little time in the gym now will pay big dividends on the slopes later because what you can’t do on skis has a lot to do with what you’re not doing in the gym!
So don’t wait until the snow falls, start challenging yourself aerobically and building the big muscles that’ll get you down the hill by focusing on these key areas :
Core & balance - Whether boarding or skiing, balance is a necessity and a strong core is fundamental for achieving balance. Work from the inside out to protect the spine
Agility & power - A focus on power & jumping using plyometrics, drills and spring or interval training helps train the more technical aspects of skiing.
Cardio fitness - At altitude, the body is under strain and with exertion, breathing can be more difficult, train the heart with whole body tabatas, cross fit or circuit work.
Muscular endurance - The goal is to fight fatigue which results in many injuries, the long cycle or run to build up your fuelling system are key here.
Flexibility - Many people ski all day and wake up sore the next day. Include a stretching program for a 10-15 minutes before and after each workout or ski day to stay bendy.
Strength - Skiers are known for their butts, the muscles in the back of your body, like your gluts, hamstrings and back, power you downhill, keep you stable and reactive. Deadlifts, squats and heavy weights are your friends here.
Knee Stability – The dreaded ACL injury is the bane of all skiers, develop the muscles that keep your knees strong and stable with lunges and isometric wall sits.
Keep yourself safe, fast and energetic on the slopes by building an exercise regime that considers all of these aspects.
