TIP - Get fit for skiing

There is a popular saying: Don't ski to get fit, get fit to ski!

 

Speak to fitness experts to get a personal programme that will strengthen your knees, ankles, back and core, as well as stave off exhaustion, so you'll be at peak performance, allowing you to make the most of your precious time on the mountain. Below are some hints for improving your fitness taken from the internet but be sure to consult a professional as we are not qualified in this area.

 

Build your stamina
The best way to do this is to ensure that, in the weeks leading up to the trip, you’re engaging in regular cardio.
• Stretching for 5 minutes
• 10 minutes of brisk walking. The aim is to walk with enough speed and effort that you feel your heart rate gently increase, but you’re still able to hold a conversation and breathe relatively normally.
• 20-30 minutes of running. Ideally, you should run continuously but if your endurance levels aren’t quite at this point, break up running with segments of brisk walking. The aim here is to break a sweat and increase your breathing, though it is important not to push yourself too far and cause an injury.
• 10-minute brisk walk. This will help to reduce your heart rate and bring your breathing back to a normal level. You should aim to undertake this exercise around 2-3 times per week as it will allow you to ski for much longer when you arrive, thus making the most of your trip!

 

Work your key muscle groups
Skiing requires strength in various muscle groups to help keep you upright, as well as maintain proper posture and positioning on your skis. There are various exercises, below that you can undertake at home to help develop the most important muscle groups to improve your stance and stability once you hit the slopes. Squats, Side lunge, Standard Lunges, Crunches, Plank, Deadlift, Superman

 

Stretch and flex
Flexibility is a hugely underrated part of skiing. Being able to achieve key positions is important for a safe ski, and if you’re as stiff as a board, you’re more likely to fall or hurt yourself. These exercises take inspiration from yoga and Pilates to improve your body’s ability to bend into position safely.