As most of us don’t tend to ski that often it is really worth preparing our bodies before a week on the slopes – here are a few Skiing Tips to help:

Pre-Ski fitness tips:
•    Don’t just sit there – Exercising through squats, sit ups and cycling is also good to tease 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 a thorough ankle work-out, rocking heel to toe is good for snowboarders and left to right is best for skiers.
•    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, so talk to a chiropractor for advice.

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.
•    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.
•    Ice is nice – With an acute injury, use ice rather than heat.
•    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.

I hope these tips help and you can enjoy a wonderful holiday in the snow. If you do have any concerns why not book a free 15 minute chat and see how we can help.  Just call 01763 878087 and see how we can help.