Skiing | How to get fit for the slopes

Skiing can be a physically challenging hobby, but that shouldn’t put you off. It’s simple to get fit for skiing in the run up to your holiday.

Who better than former British Olympic skier Graham Bell to talk ski-fitness? Graham also tackled the 260 miles Arctic Circle Race and knows quite a lot about getting in shape.

Six Week Countdown

Six weeks before your trip is the perfect time to start getting your body in shape.

Ski-specific muscle building

There are certain muscles that you’ll be putting into action more than others while you’re on the slopes. In particular, your calves and quadriceps will need training up. One way of working these muscles is by engaging in something that requires similar balance and coordination skills. “A really simple way to get the right muscles working ahead of a ski trip is to go ice or roller skating,” says Graham.

Aerobic fitness

Start with 20-minute blasts of cardio exercise where and when you can. This only needs to be at a low intensity but will help increase your heart rate and improve your fitness levels.

Two Week Countdown

Two weeks before your holiday is the time to limber up and get those muscles prepared for some serious exercise. Skipping this step could leave you stiff and sore when you get off the slopes, and nobody wants to ruin their après-ski experience, do they?

Stretch

The key muscles you’re looking to stretch are your quads, hamstrings, lower back, calves, abductors and your IT band. Graham recommends holding a stretch for 20-30 seconds, relaxing and letting the muscles lengthen.

Try some tech

Need more advice? Why not try one of the skiing fitness apps now available such as Be Fit. Technology can be a great benefit when you’re getting ready for the slopes.

When you're out there...

Even when you’re on holiday, there are still a few extra things you can do to ensure you get the most from quality time on your skis.

Warming up (and down)

It’s really important to warm up and down before and after skiing to avoid injury. Graham says it’s much more painful and dangerous when falling over if you’re stiff and your muscles are tight, than if you’re warmed up and supple. Following these expert tips will improve your general fitness, making your ski holiday much more effortless, enjoyable and a lot less daunting. It will also keep the risk of injury to a minimum.

So, what are you waiting for? Start putting these exercises into your routine now and make sure your time on-piste isn’t cut short because you aren’t up to the challenge. Book your all-inclusive snow holiday with Club Med today for days of skiing fun.