Ski Fitness Training Helps You Conquer The Slopes

Downhill skiing is one of many sports in which good balance and flexibility are essential. Hip and hamstring strength and flexibility are especially important for ski fitness training—these are the muscles that help your body make quick changes in direction as you tackle the trails winding down your favorite mountain. In preparation for ski season, try these basic leg raises to engage the iliopsoas muscle—that’s the muscle on the front of the hip that you’ll feel after a day on the slopes: -Start by sitting on the floor with your legs extended and your hands flat on the floor slightly behind your torso. -Keep your knee straight and raise your left leg a few inches off the floor. Hold the position for a few seconds, then release. Repeat on the other side. -Make this move tougher by using ankle weights, or by sitting on a fitness ball and extending and raising one leg at a time.