Here are a few pre-Ski fitness tips:
Don’t just sit there!
Exercising through squats, sit ups and cycling is a good way to train the right muscles.
It’s a balancing act
Balance is the single most important factor in skiing.
- Use a wobble board to improve balance and build up ankle muscles. For thorough ankle work-out, rocking heel to toe is good for snowboarders and left to right is best for skiers. It is also good to these in a squat position with a swiss ball behind you back against the wall.
- Jump around – Use a mini trampoline to work all those ‘skiing’ muscles.
- Roll with it – Roller blading is perfect practice and will help you develop a good ski posture, so you look like a pro on the slopes.
- Check it out – Most skiers find turning one way easier than the other. Poor technique might not be the problem – muscle weakness and joint alignment could be. Visit a chiropractor to sort out any misalignments and improve performance.
Out on the slopes
- Hot and Cold – Warm up before strenuous skiing. Start off gently rather than heading first for the black runs and round the day off with a stretch.
- Take plenty of breaks – Overexertion will ruin your holiday – moderate the length of skiing time and listen to your body. Pain is a warning sign, don’t ignore it.
- Liquid lunch – Drink plenty of water and isotonic drinks to avoid dehydration and stay clear of alcohol, tea and coffee.
- Wrap up – Make sure clothing is warm and adequate for the cold weather and don’t forget hat and gloves.
The right kit
- Put the boot in – No matter how many lessons, skiers won’t improve without the right boots and this is where most skiers put their first foot wrong. Skiers often choose on comfort alone – don’t make this mistake. Get a moulded footbed from the ski shop first as this improves fit, comfort and ski control. Opt for a shop with a wide range of boots so you are spoilt for choice.
- What a bind – If you are prone to going ‘knock-kneed’ when you ski, look out for lateral alignment. Wedges expertly placed under the binding can make a huge difference.
- Carry on – Always be careful when carrying skis/boards. Leave them standing upright so you don’t have to bend to pick them up. Carry them over your shoulder, swapping shoulders regularly.
- Tread carefully – A great deal of people are injured by slipping on ice at the ski resort, not just on the slopes. Wear shoes with a deep treaded sole and use strap-on studs for ski boots to help keep you upright.
Ice is nice – With an acute injury, use ice rather than heat – Snow will do in an emergency!!
