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4 Best Apres Ski Exercises

Nov 13, 2023

4 Best Apres Ski Exercises

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After a thrilling day of carving up the slopes and feeling the crisp mountain air against your face, your body has been through a vigorous workout. As much as we’d like to just collapse into a comfy chair and relive the day’s best moments, it’s crucial to give your muscles the attention they deserve. I’m Gavin Noble from Gav Noble Physiotherapy, and I’m going to walk you through the top 4 stretch exercises to help your muscles recover after a demanding day on the skis.

 

Why Stretch After Skiing?

 

Skiing is incredibly demanding on the body. It involves almost every muscle group, and after hours on the slopes, your muscles are likely to be tight and fatigued. Stretching can help to alleviate muscle stiffness, maintain flexibility, and prepare your body for the next day’s adventures. It reduces the risk of muscle soreness and injury, making your ski holiday more enjoyable and pain-free.

 

Now, let’s jump into the stretches that will target those key areas.

 

  1. Quadriceps Stretch – The Thigh Reviver

 

Your quads have been working overtime to keep you stable and responsive on your skis. Stretching them is essential for maintaining flexibility and preventing tightness.

 

How to Perform the Quadriceps Stretch:

 

– Stand tall, holding onto a chair or wall for balance if needed.

– Bend one knee and bring your heel towards your buttocks.

– Grab your ankle with your hand and gently pull it closer until you feel a stretch in the front of your thigh.

– Keep your knees together and your hips forward to enhance the stretch.

– Hold for 30 seconds and then switch legs.

– Perform 2-3 times on each leg.

 

  1. Gluteal Stretch – The Buttock Soother

 

The glutes are the powerhouses that help you push through each turn. They can become very tight after skiing, so this stretch will feel particularly good.

 

How to Perform the Gluteal Stretch:

 

– Lie on your back with both knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

– Cross one ankle over the opposite knee.

– Thread your hands around the thigh of the non-crossed leg and gently pull it towards your chest.

– Hold for 30 seconds as you feel the stretch in your buttocks and hip.

– Repeat on the other side, performing the stretch 2-3 times for each leg.

 

  1. Hamstring Stretch – The Slope Sliders’ Relief

 

 

The hamstrings are another group that works hard as you ski. Keeping them supple is key to preventing lower back discomfort.

 

How to Perform the Hamstring Stretch:

 

– Sit on the floor with one leg extended out in front of you.

– Bend the other leg so the sole of your foot is against your opposite inner thigh.

– Reach forward towards your toes, hinging at the hips, not the waist.

– Keep your back straight and hold the stretch for 30 seconds.

– You should feel a gentle pull along the back of your thigh.

– Switch legs and repeat, performing the stretch 2-3 times on each leg.

 

  1. Calf Stretch – The Downhill Dancers’ De-stress

 

Your calves help to absorb the impact as you navigate the slopes, and they can tighten up without proper stretching.

 

How to Perform the Calf Stretch:

 

– Stand facing a wall with your hands pressed against it.

– Step one foot back, keeping it flat on the floor, and bend the front knee.

– Lean forward into the wall until you feel a stretch in the back leg’s calf.

– Hold for 30 seconds, then switch legs.

– Perform the stretch 2-3 times per leg.

 

Bonus Tip: Hot Tub Harmony

 

There’s nothing quite like sinking into a hot tub after a day of skiing. The warm water helps to relax the muscles, easing tension and promoting recovery. So if you have the opportunity, take advantage of a hot tub session. Just remember, it’s not a substitute for stretching, so complete your routine before you indulge.

 

Wrapping It Up

 

Incorporating these stretches into your post-ski routine will help you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to hit the slopes again. Spend at least 5 minutes on each stretch for maximum benefit and remember to breathe deeply to aid in relaxation and promote oxygen flow to your tired muscles.

 

Stay limber and ski strong, and your body will thank you for it. Here’s to many more days of enjoying the pristine white slopes and the joy of skiing!

 

Stay tuned for more wellness and physio tips from Gav Noble Physiotherapy, where your body’s recovery is our priority. Happy stretching!

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