Getting Fit with Forrest, Part 1

Getting Fit with Forrest, Part 2

Skiing is a power sport, which means it requires explosive movements. And according to Gregor Neal, of the International Sports Science Association, plyometics are an essential part of any training program. The key is to develop muscle resiliency through plyometrics, so when the snow falls your legs are ready to take all of the abuse. When doing plyometrics, muscles become loaded like when we’re skiing—the muscles that are coiled and compressed are released, and you are propelled forward and upward. These are the same movements you make when you are going from turn to turn on your skis.

Plyometric training has many forms, but jumping activities are primary. Single and double leg hops, hopping across lines such as those on a basketball court or parking lot, and double leg hops on or between boxes are basic examples. More advanced exercises include triple jumps, jumps for height or distance, jumping on, off and between objects, and depth jumps. Here are a few plyometic exercises to help get your ready for ski season.

Forrest Coots is a pro skier from Mount Shasta, California.