Being overweight / first time skiier

Question
Hi Lisa,
I read a posted note about a skiier who had previous experience skiing, but since had gained some weight due to a thyroid problem.
Unfortunately, I don't have a medical issue with my weight.  I've battled my weight a lot most of my life.  
This year, I finally decided to go out and do things instead of being inhibited by my weight.  In the process, I lost 45 lbs!
Surprisingly, I accomplished a lot.  
One of the items next on my list is skiing.
I'm 5'5 and weigh 205 lbs. (I used to weigh 247 lbs!)
Anyway, I've never been skiing and finally decided to go for the gusto.  Obviously, I'd be taking beginner classes (and for the most part plan on only staying in the bunny slopes).
Do you think it's a wise idea or should I hold off until I lose more weight?

Answer
Hi and thanks for the questions

Firstly you're letter made me smile - i do love the "just go for it attitude" in everyone, then of course congratulations for sticking by your decision to enjoy your life by having a go.  I too am a "tick the box" kinda gal. Im sure you're inspiring people around you without even knowing it.

Being overweight and skiing isn't a problem as such but i will let you in on a few issues you will encounter on your experience so you can be better physically, emotionally and mentally prepared.

BODY SIZE
Fitting into the ski gear for the prettiest of folk can be mind blowing, the gear is padded for warmth and thus makes you look even bigger than you are. Remember if it was about looking fantastic then we wouldnt leave the bar!!
Find gear that allows you to squat down to the floor, lift your arms over your head [without your mid getting exposed], hug yourself and you need to be able to stand with your feet wider than your shoulders.  If you got through all that, then you are on the right track to be flexible enough as well!!
You may also find ski boots difficult to fit if you have big calves - dont be dissapoointed by this - it is a common occurance and boot makers are slowly adapting.

BODY MOVES
As mentoined above you need to have some flexibility and strength. Can you:
* squat down and stand back up?
* get up off the floor using your own strength?
* when on the floor, can you roll over onto your back and back to your stomach?
* walk up a hill [staircase] without too much difficulty?
* laugh at yourself when you try to do all this?? you will need to be able to laugh, trust me!

STRONG or FIT?
Your first three days on skis will be the hardest thing you've ever done [on that day], because you are going to be using a bunch of muscles you didnt know you had. But by the tme you get to day 4 you will wonder why it took you so long to do it [yes its that addictive].
On your first few days pace yourself. Do a little in the morning, have a long lunch then go out again in the afternoon to consolidate what you learnt. But make sure when you start to get tired, that you STOP [just in case you missed it STOP when tired]. Pushing on to do one more run will usually end in tears and sometimes an injury - making tomorrow a day off snow. Each day after that you'll find lunch will be shorter and you will start to get into it.

Things you can do to improve your experience: After you've spoken to your doctor if you need to talk to him about taking on extra physical activity. If you can access a physiotherapist or personal trainer, do that too. If not here are a few ideas....

* BALANCE - on one foot then the other - or better still go for a bike ride or try ice skating. You will need to get used to the sensation of gliding along whilst keeping your balance. Try not to move your arms around too much [ie: ice skate with hands on hips]
* STRENGTH  - do a few mini squats, work toward 20 without stopping. Improving quad muscles will be invaluable. Improve arm strength [for getting up off the ground] and abs - core is key. Any gain in strength & muscle mass will also improve your metabolism and increase weight loss!!
* FITNESS - walking uphill or stairs is fantastic if your knees can take it. An incline on a treadmill - increase it as tolerated. Better to slow the speed and not hang on [hanging on puts upto 30% of the effort into your arms, who walks on their arms anyway??]
* GYM CLASS - if you are up to it, do a few gym classes. they will improve your cardio fitness and co-ordination. A DVD will suffice if needed. Talk to a physio/PT for technique if unsure. Remember if it hurts you are probably not moving the correct way. There are many websites that have little pictures and videos try:
http://getfit.com.au/getfit/Exercise_Library.html

The more you do to prepare for your trip now, the better it will go.

ON SNOW:
If you are happy to be in a group, join a beginner program. Often these will include rental equipment, lift pass and lessons. If you're a little shy or nervous, then you will get the most out of a private lesson to start out. Once you have the simple basics then you will easliy fit into group classes to progress. You may find a full day program too much in your first 2-3 days, wait till you have some time on snow so you dont get overwhelmed.

That should get you started, if you need anymore info dont hesitate to ask. Iv also written a few other times about learning to ski. Have a look through those for more tips and ideas.

Good luck, and i'd love to hear how you go.

lisa