Preparing for ski season

Question
Dear Cynthia Bedell,
    I was wondering if there was any recommended conditioning for a ski racing season? Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the season?
    Thank you,
    Katelyn

Answer
Dear Katelyn --

For ski racing you want to have good wind (aerobic fitness), and strong core and leg muscles, but don't ignore your arms as they are critical for balance and timing.

I like alternating running days with biking days to keep my legs strong and my aerobic fitness high without doing a high impact activity every day.  On some of my running days, I just run the track.  But about once a week, I run uphill as fast as I can, and then recover by walking downhill.  I try to do at least thirty minutes of aerobic conditioning each day.

For core muscle work, I like crunches, leg lifts, and push-ups.  The crunches and leg lifts strengthen and tone the abdomen, while push-ups work the abdominals and also help keep the arms, back and shoulders strong.

If you will be joining your high school ski race team, make an appointment to meet the coach.  Ask the coach for some "dry land" training recommendations, so you can work up to the team's standards, at your own pace.

Good luck to you!