It is important to be physically ready before engaging in any type of sporting activity, especially so if you are skiing. Regardless of your current level of fitness and experience, preparation is a must as you will be using muscles and joints in such a way that you do not on a day-to-day basis, placing both under considerably more strain than usual. This aside, some preparation will ensure you enjoy your ski holiday without too many aches and pains or injuries.
Ideally start some ski specific exercise approximately three months before your trip to gradually build your fitness and stamina, that said, better late than never.
Whilst it is always important not to develop muscular imbalances when exercising, for the purpose of skiing there are certain muscles that need to be focused on and in this respect the right advice is essential.
Most good health clubs provide a free program and expert advice on the best way to prepare for your up-coming ski holiday. A good fitness coach will develop a routine to encompass all the elements to ensure your body is able to deliver the stamina and strength required.
Ski-fit exercises targeting the key areas that will be asked to work hardest whilst on the slopes including your leg muscles such as quadriceps, hamstrings, calf muscles, and shin muscles, will help to increase overall endurance so that you can make the most of the slopes.
Working on the leg muscles helps to strengthen the knee and hip joints which are placed under a great deal of stress when skiing and as such are often subject to injury. The knee is the joint that takes the most pressure when skiing; twisting, turning, bending, leaning. With the rest of your body following their lead, everything depends upon the ease with which your knees can take the impact as you head down the mountain. The hips are the driving force; all movement from the waist down is initiated by the hips. They provide stability and forward momentum, so working to increase their flexibility and strength is a must.Functional training exercises that use 3-dimensional movement patterns should be considered as these types of exercises mimic the movements that you would be likely to do whilst on the slopes, incorporating elements of flexibility, core strength and balance all at the same time.
Top tips:
1: Join a gym that offers expert advice, free health checks and fitness programs.
2: Talk through your goals with the health and fitness coach so that they are able to help you achieve your personal goals via a bespoke fitness program.
3: Always take the stairs, cycle and walk instead of using a car or catching the bus.
4: Lose some weight if needed, your knees will thank you for every ounce lost and there will be plenty of opportunity to indulge your food cravings whilst skiing as you will be burning lots of calories.
5: Have fun! All exercise can be fun, rewarding and relaxing when conducted through a sensible routine.