Do you have any plans for skiing this season?
If you have a passion for skiing or snowboarding, you’re likely overjoyed to witness snow being predicted in the weather forecast. Snow sports are an excellent means to remain fit during the winter months, fend off the seasonal depression and relish the magnificent outdoors. Nevertheless, similar to any sport, skiing and snowboarding carry a risk of getting injured.
Leg muscle exercise
Exercises that employ your leg muscles, like going on a lengthy run, can bring about a burning feeling, although this feeling doesn’t always indicate that the muscle is hurt. Furthermore, fortifying your quadriceps and gluteal muscles by using squats and variations of squats can assist in restricting the fatigue you might experience after your first day on the slopes.
Instances of exercises you can undertake comprise squats with or without weights, wall sits, walking lunges and monster walks. Aim for numerous repetitions without a significant added load, but ensure that you are incrementing your workload progressively. Adding too many repetitions or too much weight too rapidly can have the contrary effect to what you are aiming to achieve!
Abdominal muscle exercise
People are inclined to consider strengthening their core for summer conditions, but it’s equally essential to be robust in the back and core during winter, even if we conceal our body with layers of garments. Body weight exercises that can be beneficial include planks, side planks and bird-dog variations. Some core exercises can aggravate an existing back injury, so be certain to consult a physiotherapist before commencing a new exercise routine to ensure it’s safe for you.
Make adequate preparations
Just as your skis or board should start the season with a firm foundation, your body should also have a solid base level of fitness. Before the ski season, incorporate into your routine a cardiovascular activity, like walking, running, cycling or cross-country skiing, which you undertake 3-5 days every week. Group fitness classes are yet another way to make your heart beat faster!
So, are you excited for the upcoming ski season?