Winter sports enthusiasts can’t wait for the cold months to sink in so they can hit the slopes, while others are inspired to suite up after watching the winter Olympics. Either way, it is important to prep vulnerable joints like your knees before picking back up where you left off last year or giving it a go for your first time.
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, MCL and ACLtears and strains are the most common amongst skiing knee injuries and “attention to preseason conditioning with an emphasis on sport specific exercises will help delay muscle fatigue which often contributes to an injury.”
Barre and Pilates based exercises are an excellent way to help condition your lower extremities pre-season because the exercises naturally create a balanced body, strong core and improved balance. The barre technique also utilizes the concept of muscle overload (working past your fatigue zone), which builds strength quicker and helps to ward off fatigue longer on the slopes.
Here are a few excellent exercises to incorporate into your daily conditioning routine so that you are ready for the slopes year round.