How to Train, Ski, and Recover Like a Pro
February 25, 2019
Ski season is well underway in the Alps, and I’m sure we’re all excited about the ski trips we have planned.
Skiing is an intense sport, and with the right training and recovery methods, you can take your skiing to the next level, so that you can get the most out of your time on the slopes.
While I was at Isokinetic London to get my threshold test done a few months ago, they gave me some insider tips to help you train, and prevent getting injured whilst skiing.
Why You Need to Train for Skiing
Skiing is a sport that requires strength and endurance. The better shape you’re in, the less likely you’ll get hurt. Plus, you’ll be able to ski longer and harder on your days on the mountain.
Alpine skiing has a range of races from the speed-based Super G to the more technical slalom races. An elite ski racer needs to have incredible physical, physiological, and mental skills to speed down a mountain at speeds of 80 miles per hour (129 KPH). And, a lot of confidence!
The world’s top skiers train year-round. They chase the snow from the Northern Hemisphere to the Southern Hemisphere and back again. In between intense sessions on the slopes, athletes are often found in the gym working on their core and leg strength.
Since skiers are prone to knee injuries, many athletes focus on preventive exercise drills, myofascial release, and other speciality treatments by physiologists and massage therapists.
You Should Train in Advance
Of course, you can always just hit the hill without training, but you’ll be quite sore and tired afterwards.
Mike Davison, the Managing Director of Isokinetic London, suggests: “You’ll enjoy skiing if you are physically fit. Try to use the cross trainer or Stairmaster for at least 30 minutes, four times per week to sweat.”
Skiing is leg-intensive. That’s why you see so many Olympic skiers hitting the weights at the gym doing front squats, deadlifts, loaded lunges, and more.
In the strength and conditioning world, coaches will use the terms concentric and eccentric strength. Alpine skiing requires eccentric leg strength, which is the strength you need to lower yourself to the bottom of a squat or the hike down a steep hill.
There are many different ways to train in the gym for skiing. Strength coaches at the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado use stationary bikes built for nursing home patients. These bikes pedal against the athletes, forcing them to push against the bike to work their legs.
The Norwegian ski team uses a pneumatic squat machine, which allows the athlete to lower a heavily-loaded barbell and the machine lift it back up for them. For the everyday skier, you don’t need a ton of fancy equipment to get a good leg workout at the gym. Eccentric leg exercises that you can do anywhere include air squats, jumping lunges, and jump squats to name a few.
Recover Like a King
While it’s tempting to hit the slopeside bar for après ski, you should spend some time recovering and stretching after your day of skiing. It’ll help you get out of bed faster the next morning and feel better on the mountain.
Yoga is great for stretching and working on your mobility and flexibility for skiing. Foam rolling or using a golf ball to get into the smaller muscles is a great way to release tension.
If your legs are fatigued, then an ice bath is the best thing to reduce inflammation. However, if that doesn’t sound appealing after a cold day on the pistes, then a warm bath with Epsom salts is the next best thing. Of course, a little time in the hot tub will help relax your tired muscles, too.
Always drink lots of water and focus on eating healthy. This is especially important if you’re struggling with the altitude change. Foam rolling and a massage will help work out any muscle aches. We are always happy to help you find a nearby yoga studio or hire a private yoga instructor or masseuse for all your recovery needs in your ski chalet.
Focus on Injury Prevention
Injuries can happen even to the fittest skiers. Knee injuries, especially torn or bruised meniscus and ACL or MCL ligament injuries are common in skiers.
Mike Davison recommends stretching before you start your first run of the day. Focus on your hamstrings by putting your ski upright and stretch forward. Repeat on both sides.
For safety reasons, always wear a helmet and listen to your body. Most people get hurt on the last run of the day.
Mike also recommends practising falling before the start of your ski holiday to remember how it feels. Falling is part of skiing, so it’s good to recall the feeling and know how to get back up again without any assistance.
If you’ve ever had an injury, visit one of the Isokinetic locations to see a specialist who can create a customised rehabilitation programme for your needs. Nigel Boshy Brook-Walters said, “literally the best rehab facility in London. Treatment as if you were a pro athlete.”
Train Hard, Ski Hard
Even if you’re not a pro-skier it’s important to take the advice of Olympic skiers; train and recover hard!
Not only will you feel better after a day of skiing, but you’ll also be able to ski longer and stronger. If you’re interested in trying alpine ski racing, possibly for next winter, read about our City Ski Championships and perhaps, you can take home a gold!
Do you want to take your training to the Alps? Get in touch to start planning the ultimate ski holiday.
Would you like to find out more about how to plan your ski trip, sign up to our free email course.