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Ski Tip #1: Before you Hit the Slopes

Before you hit the ski slopes mental and physical conditioning will be a great part of your learning success. In order to perform the basic fundamentals of skiing it’s key to be physically fit, with a positive mental outlook.

We felt staying active in other competitive sports during our off season was crucial in our success on the slopes, both physically and mentally. If you take six months away from your sport and then just think you can pick up where you left off, you’re kidding yourself. Skiing requires muscles that are not used on a daily basis and need to be brought back before you hit the slopes.

It’s difficult to pinpoint what are the best exercises to accomplish getting back into skiing shape, but we have always found two things to be true. 1) Sports that move you in six directions (up-down, right-left, and fore-aft), such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, handball, tennis, etc. are much more conducive to stimulating the muscles required for skiing. 2) If you’re having fun and getting a workout at the same time, you’re more apt to continue to get fit.

People often say, “I’ve been running three miles a day for the last month and my legs are still burning.” Running is great for cardiovascular strength, but doesn’t work the same muscle groups. If you were to run over uneven terrain, bounding from left to right and jumping over obstacles this would then be more appropriate for ski conditioning. Also, make mental notes or write them on a piece of paper about what you like in your skiing and what you’re thinking about, then when you go out the next time you can start concentrating on those areas from the get go.

Remember, before you start any exercise program it’s a good idea to consult a physician. Have a great season and we hope to see you on the slopes.

Tip #1: STAY ACTIVE, HAVE FUN!!!

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