Overweight and Skiing

Question
Hello --

I'm 55, 5'6" and weigh 226.  Seventeen years ago, I put down my skis, ending four years of instructing 4-to-8 year olds in skiing.  At that time, I weighed 130.  

I keep watching ski videos and yearning to return to skiing.  I'm embarrassed by my weight and thinking that I will be more embarrassed at the resort.  Can an overweight person ski?  Effect on balance?  Skis?

I was athletic through my 40's -- tournament tennis, jogging, skiing, walking, hiking, swimming.  A baby and starting a business and hypothyroidism changed things. So horrid.

I still exercise, daily.  I can walk 4 flights of stairs and will choose to.  I can walk at the track for two hours.  I shovel snow without any issues.  I lift weights.  I have no health problems other than hypothyroidism and my horrible, horrible weight issue.

So, tell me, do I dare take this overweight body to the mountain?  Will I be able to ski?  Is there equipment for me?   

I'm thinking it will help me lose weight...and maybe give me back that rush I used to love from skiing.

Any thoughts?

Answer
hello and thanks for the question.

from the information you have given it sounds like the actual activity of skiing will not be an issue, rather the forces/pressure exerted through your joints during skiing itself.

i am assuming your hypothyroid is being treated by your GP?
Your level of general activity sounds very reasonable, but yes the extra weight will effect your day.
it may take you a few days to get into it and the key will be to ensure you take regular breaks and "listen" to your body to avoid injury - avoid the "one last run" when most injuries occur.

you will need a stiffer pair of boots and you may find it difficult to get these fitted especially in the calves - aim for a mens boot and have the technician spend time with you getting it sorted out.

You indicated you are embarressed, find a technichine you are comfortable with and who is willing to help you out.

Skis will also need to be stiffer - but dont go too long as they will need more effort to turn.

Once you get to the slopes, take it easy - have a go at the snowplow - you will find with the added weight you carry you will take longer to stop [physics]. Slowly increase what you do... also i can imagine the fear of falling and having to get back up will be an issue that is at the fore of your mind.

i see no reason why you cannot go skiing - from your email it is more the perception others will have of you there.  From my point of view - im glad to see you out doing someting about it and trying to have a better quality of life.

Goodluck
and if you have any other questions, feel free to drop me a line and i'd be interested to know how you went.

thanks
Lisa RN