It might only be October…but it’s never too early to start getting excited about the ski season!! Now’s the time to get yourself prepared for your trip. Whether you’ve been skiing since you could walk or its your first time, there are definitely steps you can take to reduce the chance of injury and make the holiday more enjoyable (and less exhausting!)
The 4 main area’s you need to address are:
- Strength
- Flexibility and mobility
- Proprioception (balance)
- Aerobic fitness
Strength!
Its time to start working on those leg muscles. The stronger your quads, glutes and hamstrings are the easier you’re going to find it when you get on the mountain. Not only will this help stop that horrific thigh burn you get after a steep mogul field… it can also reduce your chance of injury.
Flexibility and Mobility
If you do fall over whilst skiing, the more flexibility you have the less likely you are to strain or tear something. Improving your mobility can also help the efficiency of your skiing and prevent overuse injuries. Get yourself into a regular stretch routine; concentrating on hamstrings, glutes, hip flexors, quadriceps, calves and thoracic and lumbar mobility or find yourself a local yoga class!
Proprioception
Proprioception is the awareness of your body and where it is in space. We talk a lot about proprioception in the rehabilitation of various injuries, particularly knee and ankle injuries.
When you’re skiing, proprioception and balance is so important!! Your body needs to be able to adjust to any unexpected lumps, bumps or changes in terrain! Every single turn your body is working hard to keep you upright!! If your balance and proprioception is poor, you’re going to really struggle to stay upright on your ski’s!!
Aerobic Fitness
If you are generally ‘fitter’ you won’t fatigue quite so much, you’ll be able to ski further, faster and for longer without struggling. Not only does this reduce your risk of injury it also allows you to make the most of your holiday. So go out for a jog, swim, cycle or long walk – it will improve your holiday!!
If you have any questions or would like to speak to 1 of our osteopaths get in touch via email info@hertspainandinjury.co.uk or give us a call on 07766569368.
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