Ski Ready: How Pilates Gets You Fit for the Slopes

Have you prepped your body for the season?

Whether you’re heading to the Alps for a week on the piste or dusting off the skis for the first time in years, one thing’s for sure — skiing is no joke on the body!

From burning thighs to aching backs (not to mention staying upright on an icy slope), skiing uses muscles you may not have thought about since… well, last ski season.

That’s where Pilates comes in. It’s one of the smartest ways to prep your body for the slopes — helping you stay strong, steady, and injury-free.

Why You Should Train Before You Ski

Skiing isn’t just a holiday — it’s a full-body workout:

• You're using your legs and glutes constantly to control turns and absorb impact.

• Your core is working overtime to help you balance and stay centred.

• Your upper body helps with pole control and stability.

• And let’s not forget the demands on your joints, hips, knees and back.

If you go in cold (literally and physically), that first day on the slopes can be a shock to the system. Sore legs, tight hips, and wobbly knees aren’t the best start to your trip!

5 Ways Pilates Prepares You for Skiing

1. Core Strength & Stability

• Pilates is all about a strong centre.

• A solid core = better balance, more control on turns, and less chance of falling (or injuring yourself if you do!).

  
  

2. Leg & Glute Strength

• Squats are great, but Pilates targets the smaller, stabilising muscles too.

• Strong glutes support your knees — crucial on uneven terrain.

  
  

3. Joint Mobility

• Skiing needs hips and ankles that move well, not just muscles that work hard.

• Pilates improves your range of motion, helping you move more smoothly and avoid stiffness.

4. Balance & Coordination

• Every ski run is unpredictable — your body needs to respond quickly.

• Pilates challenges your balance and proprioception (body awareness), so you stay more in control on the slopes.

5. Injury Prevention

• Many ski injuries happen when people are tired or out of alignment.

• Pilates teaches you good movement habits, so your body’s better prepared to cope with strain, fatigue, and falls.

When Should You Start Training?

Ideally, you want to start at least 6–8 weeks before your ski trip to build strength and control gradually. But even a few weeks of focused Pilates can make a big difference.

Heading to the Slopes Soon?

Come join my Ski-Ready Pilates Course to:

• Build your strength

• Improve balance and flexibility

• Reduce your risk of injury

• And feel more confident (and less achy!) on your trip

If you more info on our ski ready course please click on the button

Click Me To Be Ski Ready

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📧 Email info@thankupilates.co.uk if you have any questions

Let’s get you ski-fit – the smart, safe and effective way.