Strength training is an essential component of any skier’s fitness regimen and one of our key interventions we prescribe in our Boulder Physical Therapy and Lafayette Physical Therapy clinics. Skiing demands high levels of muscular strength, endurance, and balance, particularly in the lower body. Strengthening the core and leg muscles helps skiers maintain proper form, which is crucial for controlling movement and preventing injury on challenging terrain. According to the American Council on Exercise, exercises like squats and lunges can enhance leg power and stability, key for effective skiing turns and transitions . Additionally, stronger muscles improve overall endurance, allowing skiers to stay active longer without fatigue, ensuring they make the most of their time on the slopes.
Injury prevention is another critical reason to incorporate strength training into ski preparation. Skiing places considerable stress on joints and muscles, especially in the knees, which are prone to injury. Strength training not only fortifies the muscles supporting joints but also enhances neuromuscular coordination, helping skiers react quickly to sudden changes in terrain. This proactive approach to conditioning helps skiers stay safe while optimizing their performance on the mountain.
At Mend, we can get you started on a strength training program that will keep you on the slopes. Through our personal training program, MPowered, we customize each program based on your goals and prior injuries administered by a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Please reference this Youtube video as a starting point of what can be offered.
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