Getting started, a little pre-season exercise is better than none

Once the leaves start turning color in the mountains in September, it's a good time for North American skiers to start thinking about pre-season conditioning.  Especially true for beginners or intermediates who want to up their game in the upcoming winter.  For older advanced skiers, working on fitness during the off season can help prevent injuries on the slopes.  Most trainers recommend spending at least six weeks, if not 8-12, building up leg strength, core strength, balance, and flexibility.

It can be daunting to think about a full workout.  Why not start with a few exercises?  Check out the video below created in Utah that covers three basic exercises that can help get key leg muscles ready for the slopes: jumping up/down steps, hamstring curls, squats.

To make the most of any exercise, make sure you are using the correct form.  Even more important if you have any issues with knees or hips.  The hamstring curl was one of the first exercises I did as part of knee rehab.  For squats, where your knees go in relation to your toes is critical.