Skiing Tips - Workouts to Prepare for the Ski Season
The Bosu
The Bosu combines the benefits of stability ball training and balance board conditioning into one piece of equipment. As such, its name is an acronym for “both sides utilized.” The Bosu is shaped like half a stability ball. It actually resembles some of the moguls you might see on the ski hill. Since the Bosu is one of the most popular conditioning tools and the US Ski Team, it behooves you to add it to your ski fitness workout. Here are some of the best Bosu ski exercises:
Bosu Carver
• Stand on top of the Bosu
• Shift your weight so that you are on the pinky toe of the left foot and big toe of the right
• Shift to the other side
Engage your core muscles to keep a quiet upper body.
Photo: Bosu Carver
Jump and Stick
• Stand on top of the Bosu.
• Feet are parallel, and open to the width of your average ski stance.
• Inhale and jump.
• As you exhale, land in a squat.
Photo: Bosu Jump and Stick
While correct alignment minimizes foot wobbling upon landing, don’t expect to be paralyzed! Athletic balance is dynamic. Some degree of motion may occur.
While many people wait until November to begin their ski conditioning program, most would be better served by starting their training as early as June. Ideally, since balance tends to decrease as we age; it behooves you to participate in a year-round balance conditioning program.