For some people, skiing is a fun pastime. For others, it’s a serious sport. Whether you’re a “just for fun” skier or a serious skier, you’ll find it helpful to be in shape while on the slopes. There are specific exercises you can do that will help improve your performance and overall skiing experience. Here are the best exercises you can start doing at home today. 

Squats

Squats will help you strengthen the primary muscles you’ll use on the slopes– your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Put a weight in each hand and then, with your feet about hip-distance apart, act like you’re about to sit in a chair. Get low enough that your thighs are parallel with the ground and then come back up. Keep your weight in your heels and make sure that your knees don’t go out past for toes as you lower down.

Lunges

Lunges are another exercise that will help you increase the strength in your legs. To do a lunge, put a weight in each hand and stand with your feet hip-width apart. Then, step one leg back behind you and bend both of your knees to about a 90-degree angle. Keep your weight in the heel of your front foot. Focusing your weight in your heel, pull your back leg forward and return to a standing position.

Planks

Planks primarily work your core. Core strength is important for many reasons, but as a skier, it’s particularly critical. To do a plank, start by lying flat on your belly and then raising up to your elbows and toes. Keep your back flat and ab muscles engaged. It’s also helpful to engage your legs and let energy shoot out through your feet. Hold this position for as long as you can. Your goal should be to eventually hold the position for 60 seconds.

Cardio

As a skier, you’ll want to have a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. The best way to improve your stamina is to do cardio exercise. You can choose whatever type of cardio that you enjoy, like cycling, dancing, and running. You can also do simple moves at home such as jumping jacks. If want to work your quadriceps and glutes as you improve your endurance, you can do jumping squats or lunges. 

If you do these exercises consistently for a few months before heading out on the slopes, you’ll make your experience much more enjoyable. If you’re new to skiing, don’t be surprised if you still struggle a bit. But stick with it and continue to do your home exercises, and you’ll be skiing like a pro in no time!