Get Ski Fit: Top Exercises to Prepare for Your Ski Holiday
Heading off on a ski holiday this winter? Whether it’s the French Alps, the Scottish Highlands, or a UK dry slope, getting fit before you hit the snow makes a huge difference. Skiing is a full-body workout that needs strength, balance, and endurance — and the good news is, you can prepare for it right at home!
We’ve put together some fun and effective exercises perfect for kids and adults alike to get ski fit and enjoy every run.
Why Get Ski Fit?
Skiing uses muscles you might not regularly work on. Being fit helps:
- Improve control and stability on the slopes
- Reduce risk of injury
- Increase stamina so you can ski longer without getting tired
- Make learning easier and more enjoyable!
Warm-Up First!
Always start with a gentle warm-up — a few minutes of jogging on the spot, jumping jacks, or skipping — to get your muscles ready.
Top Exercises to Get Ski Fit
1. Squats
- Why? Builds strong legs and glutes essential for skiing.
- How to: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your bottom as if sitting on a chair, keep your knees behind your toes, then stand up.
- Tip: Try 3 sets of 10 reps.
2. Lunges
- Why? Improves balance and leg strength.
- How to: Step forward with one leg and bend both knees until the back knee almost touches the ground. Push back up to standing. Repeat on the other leg.
- Tip: Aim for 3 sets of 10 reps on each leg.
3. Wall Sit
- Why? Builds endurance in your thighs.
- How to: Lean your back against a wall and slide down until your knees are at 90 degrees. Hold the position as long as you can.
- Tip: Work up to holding for 30 seconds or more.
4. Plank
- Why? Strengthens your core, which helps with balance and posture.
- How to: Lie face down, then lift onto your forearms and toes, keeping your body straight. Hold the position.
- Tip: Start with 20 seconds and build up to 1 minute.
5. Jumping Jacks
- Why? Boosts your cardio and warms up your muscles.
- How to: Jump with legs spreading wide and arms overhead, then jump back. Repeat quickly.
- Tip: Do 3 sets of 20.
Bonus: Fun Ski-Specific Moves!
- Side-to-Side Hops: Mimic skiing motion by hopping side to side over a line or small object.
- Balance on One Leg: Stand on one foot for 30 seconds, then switch. Helps with stability on uneven slopes.
Tips for Parents and Kids
- Make it a family challenge — who can hold a plank the longest?
- Use music to keep energy high.
- Always stretch after your workout to avoid soreness.
Get Ready, Get Set, Ski!
Preparing your body for skiing helps you enjoy the slopes more and stay safe. With these exercises, you’ll be strong, balanced, and ready to have a brilliant time on snow.
Ready to start? Put on your trainers and get moving!