Ski: Five Ways to Get Fit for the Slopes

Helen Coffey, The Daily Telegraph, September 23, 2014

The app – SkiFit

What is it? SkiFit is a new video-based app and online training programme aimed at skiers and snowboarders who are serious about getting fit for the mountain. It's been launched by Chamonix-based physiotherapist and clinical expert, Neil Maclean-Martin, and offers a series of exercises specific to snowsports that can be done at home or in the gym.

The eight-week training programme is suitable for all ability levels, with the aim of improving strength in key muscles, as well as developing flexibility and balance.
How much? £9.99
More info: befitapps.com

The website – Instructor Live
What is it? Calling itself “your complete online fitness solution”, Instructor Live is a database of exercise classes led by qualified instructors. It offers a mix of live streamed and on demand classes from the Instructor Live website – all you need is a device connected to the internet (PC, Mac, phone, tablet or internet TV), plus a bit of space.

Their huge range of sessions includes a Ski Fit programme, a full body workout that gives special attention to the lower body and mimics the ski positions, focusing on strength, endurance and knee stability.
How much? From £5.99 a month (potential subscribers receive a 30 day free trial)
More info: instructorlive.com

The DVD – Ski Stronger
What is it? Shot in the resort of Squaw Valley, California, this 50-minute workout DVD is peppered with awe-inspiring powder skiing footage to remind you why you’re sweating in front of the sofa rather than relaxing on it. Trainer Scott Adams and skier Todd Walsh employ both fresh and familiar exercises to improve core stability, leg strength, balance, flexibility and anaerobic endurance – “the kind you need the most when skiing”.

The exercises are targeted at the hamstrings and back, as skiers often neglect these muscle groups. To get the most out of the workout, you'll need an exercise ball, dumbbells and a mat.
How much? £18
More info: skistronger.com

The indoor slope – Skiplex
What is it? Skiplex is a revolving indoor slope, similar to a treadmill but for snowsports, with branches in Chiswick, Basingstoke and Reading. All sessions are led by ski and snowboard instructors and equipment is provided. The gradient and speed of the revolving slopes, which are made of a carpet-like material, can be changed to suit different abilities.

Skiplex is open throughout the year, enabling people to maintain their skills and strength, and despite its focus on snowsports, the slopes provide an alternative to the monotony of regular gym sessions – instructors work on all areas of fitness, including muscular strength, cardio and toning.
How much? £99.95 for six one-hour sessions
More info: skiplex.co.uk

The physio – Lucy Macdonald
What is it? Lucy Macdonald, director of the Octopus Clinic in London, is a physio specialising in snowsports. She had a practice in Val d'Isère for six years and has treated members of the GB team, as well as working with SCGB and BASI. Physios aren't just there for when you've sustained an injury – they can help with your general posture and alignment to improve performance on the slopes.

A one-to-one session with an expert can be invaluable for your technique and prepare you to hit the mountain, plus proper alignment can help prevent injuries. During a session, Lucy identifies key areas to work on and demonstrates how your optimum skiing position should look using mirrors. She also provides specific take-home exercises to retrain everyday movement patterns, improve technique, strengthen the core muscles you need for snowsports and work on flexibility.
How much? £100
More info: octopusclinic.com

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This article was written by Helen Coffey from The Daily Telegraph and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network.