After such a long break from skiing many of us have faced due to the fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic, it may have been a while since you’ve been on the slopes. The best way to avoid injury from skiing is to prepare beforehand and get “ski fit”. In any case, it always takes a few days to find our ski legs again, so here’s a few tips to get in shape before your holiday and be ready to shred from day one.
In order to ski from lift opening to close, the following key physical attributes will ensure you can ski longer, harder and safer:
- Endurance
- Strength
- Flexibility
Follow our tips below to get ready for the slopes by improving these key attributes and make the most of your week’s holiday.
Cardiovascular Fitness
In order to get ski fit, it’s recommend that you aim to do some cardio fitness at least three times a week.
Cycling is recognised as one of the best types of cardio fitness to prepare for skiing, but running, CrossFit, swimming and other cardio activities are all good ways to help with building stamina and general fitness.
Strength and Conditioning
Squats
Squats mimic the motion of skiing and are ideal for strengthening legs and glutes. Stand up straight with your feet wider apart than your shoulders, flex your knees and squat down low, keeping knees aligned and arms outstretched.
Planks
Practicing planks helps to create a strong core, which is key for more demanding skiing. Rest on your elbows and toes and push up your hips so they are aligned with the rest of your body. Work up to holding your plank for longer each time.
Lunges
Lunges strengthen glutes and quads for strong, sturdy ski legs. Start in a standing position and step forwards with one foot, keeping your hips and upper body straight, then return to standing and lunge forward with the other leg.
Crunches
Crunches strengthen your core, essential for ski balance. Lie down with your lower back pressed into the floor. With hands behind your head, raise your shoulders and upper back. Hold for a few seconds before relaxing back down.
Yoga
Developing flexibility is also key to preventing injury and making the most of your ski week. Some of the most common injuries are twists and slips, and a great way to improve mobility is to practice yoga a couple of times a week.
Here are a few yoga poses that are a great for ski preparation:
Mountain Pose
Chair Pose
Extended Hand-to-Toe Balance Pose
Upward Plank Pose
Goddess Pose
By following these top tips, we hope that you will be prepared for your ski holiday and be in the best physical shape to tackle the slopes!
Did you know that The Espace Killy region has just as much going for it in the summer as in the winter? If you’re interested in cycling, running, hiking, or swimming in the French Alpes, contact our reservations team to book a summer holiday with us!
Our reservations team can be contacted at info@chaletchardons.com or +44 (0)1600 800 300