Getting back on the slopes after a break requires easing back into the sport safely and effectively. To restart skiing successfully, go easy on yourself and begin with simple terrain until you regain confidence, gradually working your way back to more challenging runs while preparing your body.
Start Slow and Build Confidence
When you restart skiing, it's crucial to not pick up exactly where you left off. Start with some easy terrain until you feel confident in the skis again! Beginner slopes or green runs are ideal for reacquainting yourself with the feel of the snow and the movement of the skis. This helps rebuild muscle memory and confidence without the pressure of steep pitches or high speeds.
- Choose easy trails: Stick to designated beginner or easy runs.
- Take breaks: Don't push yourself too hard on the first day back.
- Focus on feel: Pay attention to how the skis are reacting and how your body is moving.
Practice Basic Techniques
Even if you were an advanced skier before your break, revisiting the fundamentals is a great idea. You can practice some of the basic drills such as the outside ski pressure. These drills help reinforce proper technique, balance, and edge control, which are essential building blocks for all levels of skiing.
- Outside Ski Pressure: Focus on putting weight and pressure on your outside ski during turns.
- Straight Gliding: Practice maintaining balance while gliding straight downhill.
- Wedge/Snowplow: Revisit the basic stopping and speed control technique if needed.
Prepare Your Body
Skiing uses specific muscle groups, and returning to the sport after time off can lead to soreness. Get your legs ready to go back skiing and don't forget to stretch at the end, this will help with the soreness that can be tough. Engaging in some pre-season conditioning can significantly help, but even on the mountain, warming up before skiing and stretching afterwards is vital for recovery.
- Pre-ski stretches: Light dynamic stretches to warm up muscles.
- Post-ski stretches: Focus on stretching quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core muscles.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
By following these steps – starting easy, practicing basics, and preparing your body – you can make your return to skiing enjoyable, safe, and successful.
