Expert: Jake Lanier - 12/13/2002

Question
Jack- what do you consider the best exercises to prepare for beginning/intermediate skiing?  I am 39 year old female who hasn't skied for 10 years and has only skied a few times 3-4.  I want to prepare so that I can stay out at least a 1/2 day for 4-5 days in Glenwood Springs/Aspen areas.  Best places for me to ski?

Thanks,

Natalie  

Answer
Natalie,
 Depending on how much time you have before your trip, I would suggest doing a little endurance training.  Maybe jog for a while, to get your heart rate up.  Also, place a moderately sized box on the floor and jump sideways across it, so that your knees get used to that.  You'll want to strengthen your legs, through wall sits where you have your back against the wall and you lower yourself down to a squat and try and hold it.  Remember, to stretch a lot right before you ski.  This is important to not getting too sore afterwards.  You'll be near Aspen which is supposed to be one of the best places to ski, for there are a lot of different mountains in that area.  I've actually never been and it's rather expensive.  Also, there's a small area called Monarch, which is good for beginners and families.  Good luck.
                                      JAKE