Training for Ski Season: Free Training Packet Download, Injury Prevention Tips and More!
Our experts put together a comprehensive training and fitness packet to help you get the most out of your riding season. *As always, consult your physical therapist or physician with questions or concerns, and before starting any new fitness regimen; we are here to help and guide you!
While most people are pining for warmer weather, we skiers, snowboarders and riders are out taking advantage of the fresh powder, hitting the slopes and making the most of the winter. Unfortunately, pain and injury can land us in the lodge for an “Apres Ski” before the fun even begins. PTSMC physical therapist Tom Kasson is an avid skier who knows a thing or two about training for riding, as well as preventing and treating injury. Tom recently gave a talk at REI in West Hartford, CT on the best exercises to prepare for ski season, best practices to avoid injuries and most effective physical therapy treatment techniques if rehab is needed. Below is a FREE DOWNLOADABLE TRAINING PACKET that covers fitness regimens for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders, as well as some helpful information about common injuries and our 1-on-1 custom training programs for those serious about maximizing your season. Get informed, get fit and enjoy the ride!
COMMON SKIING & RIDING INJURIES
KNEE INJURIES
Sprains or tears to the ACL and/or MCL in the knee are some of the most common skiing injuries. These are injuries to ligaments that support stabilization and movement in the knee.
WRIST INJURIES
When falling, riders often make the mistake of trying to soften the impact with an outstretched hand, which can result in wrist sprains and breaks.
CONCUSSION
A concussion can be caused by a direct blow to the head and even by whiplash due to a fall or jerk movement while skiing. Symptoms can be wide-ranging, including headache, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, balance problems, anxiety and more.
MUSCLE INJURIES
Skiing can be a demanding activity for your body, so it’s no surprise that skiers often experience muscle pulls and strains, including in their neck, back, shoulder and quads.
FOOT/ANKLE INURIES
The act of skiing and riding often puts your feet and ankles into tight-fitting boots where “hot spots” can form, causing stress and pain in various soft tissues.
How Physical Therapy Can Help Treat Ski & Ride Injuries
HAVE YOUR PAIN & INJURY ASSESSED by medical experts who can identify the cause of pain and set you on the best path for full recovery.
TREAT SPRAINS & STRAINS with appropriate strengthening exercises, stretches, manual therapy and other techniques to help you get back to the slopes sooner and safer.
REHAB SEVERE INJURIES like breaks, tears and fractures with experts who can guide you safely, help you recover strength and balance, and support you as you progress back towards activity.
TREAT CONCUSSION, BALANCE PROBLEMS AND DIZZINESS by having a clinician determine the cause of your symptoms with specialized testing and guide you through exercises and activities to alleviate your condition.
RECEIVE MODERN TREATMENT TECHNIQUES from physical therapists who stay up on the most effective methods, including manual therapy, dry needling, Graston Technique, movement assessments and more.
PREVENT FUTURE INJURIES by learning exercises and best practices for skiing and riding, and get pre-screened for potential problem areas.