Focus on ski fitness

Planning a ski trip? Concentrate on training key areas to avoid injury


Posted: 21 October 2011
by Nicola Davenport

Ski woman

ANKLES

The key here is flexibility, so focus on moves to strengthen this joint. Despite developments in ski boots, ankle injuries are particularly common to skiers. So prep them well with strengthening - and rehab if you have a weakness in this area. A common error is to assume that an injury has healed simply because swelling has subsided and you can put a bit of weight on it. But your ankle is still in a weakened state, leaving you open for further injury.

KNEES

The knee is the focal point for all skiers. As soon as you are off the chairlift it feels as if your knees are taking on the entire mountain. Twisting, turning, bending, leaning, with the rest of your body following their lead. Everything depends upon the ease with which your knees can take the impact as you cruise down the mountain. Aim to strengthen the areas around your knee, giving it the support necessary to handle the grind of the piste.

HIPS

Your source of stability and forward momentum, the hips are the driving force on the ski slope: all movement from the waist down is initiated by the hips. Work on getting them flexible and strong, and ensure that your core and glutes are engaged to support your hips as you head downhill. Focus on hip mobility to give you stability and force.

Looking for a bespoke ski clinic class? Lomax in London's Victoria are offering a free 60-minute massage if you book a block of eight ski clinic classes .


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ski, skiing, fitness, joints, knees, hips, ankles
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