By: Katie Rosenfelt / January 2, 2023
Stretching. It’s something we all know we should be doing before and after each ski sesh, but sometimes the pull of hot tubs and aprés is too strong. I get it, sometimes it’s more fun to keep the stoke going, and taking a stretch break isn’t exactly that, especially when your friends are chilling at the resort bar. We’ve all been there.
Let’s get to the point - stretching can not only help us feel better, but can help you perform better on the slopes. Warmed-up muscles means when you hit the lift, your body is ready to shred.
These few stretches compiled below can be used to help get your muscles warmed up before hitting the mountain, and after a ski day to loosen up muscles that were contracted all day. Try each stretch in a flow - ease into the other with smooth transitions. Time to embrace your inner yogi! Hold each stretch for three to five seconds before transitioning into the next. Do as many reps that feel right for you.
Runners Lunge
- Start with feet hip width apart
- Step right foot forward and land in a long lunge position. Make sure your right knee is squared right over your right ankle
- Place hands square on the ground on either side your right foot
- Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
Side Lunge
- From a runners lunge, transition to standing upwards. Keep legs hip width apart and into a triangle shape
- Bend right knee and turn toes outward, keeping knee squared above right ankle. Lean into stretch while keeping left leg straight
- Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
Wide Legged Forward Bend
- From the side lunge, stand upwards with legs in a triangle shape
- Bend forward slowly from the hips. Let arms hang or plant hands on ground
- Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
After you finish this flow, repeat with the left side. Repeat as many times as you’re comfortable with.
*Note – Please consult with a doctor to make sure that your body is capable of performing this type of exercise