Skiers: It’s Time to Get in Shape for the Season

The leaves may just be turning, but for skiers, winter is already on the horizon. If you want to make the most of your time on the slopes, now’s the time to prep your body. Skiing is a sport that demands strong muscles, good balance, and solid cardiovascular endurance. While many devoted skiers train year-round, there’s still time to build strength and stamina if you’ve taken a break during the warmer months.

Experts say the right preseason workouts can boost performance, help prevent injuries, and make skiing far more enjoyable.

Inline skating is one of the top picks. It strengthens leg muscles, challenges your balance, and activates your core in much the same way skiing does. Some sports medicine experts also suggest rowing machines as a solid cardio option, providing a low-impact workout that builds endurance and power.

Another way to prepare is with short bursts of high-intensity training. Sprints and interval workouts mimic skiing’s stop-and-go rhythm, where you alternate between bursts of exertion and quick recoveries. Trainers note that this not only improves cardiovascular fitness but also conditions your body for the on-and-off demands of navigating the slopes.

For a more ski-specific workout, try Nordic walking. Originally created as a dry-ground training method for cross-country skiers, Nordic walking uses lightweight poles with rubber tips. You plant a pole as the opposite foot lands, then swing it back as you stride forward. The result? Better balance, stronger core engagement, and upper-body muscle activation—all benefits you won’t get from ordinary walking.

And while many athletes rely on music to power through workouts, some trainers recommend ditching the headphones. Instead, focus on your breathing. By paying attention to breath control during workouts, you’ll be better prepared to maintain steady breathing and endurance at higher altitudes.

Whether you choose skating, sprinting, rowing, or Nordic walking, the message is clear: don’t wait for the first snowfall. A little preseason effort can set you up for a safer, stronger, and more exhilarating ski season.