Back Pain and Skiing

The summer is nearly over and many people, my wife included, are getting ready for the Ski season. Here are some ideas from a skier to help prevent the worst of back pain when those of you who do hit the slopes enjoy themselves.
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Few recreational skiers train their bodies all year for the physical demands of skiing. To feel your best when you ski, you want to train so that you do not strain muscles, feel extremely sore, or get injured.


Here are three great exercises to make your back muscles stronger for skiing:

1) Lunges- Yes, lunges that focus on the thighs and butt. Skiing is a very leg-intensive sport. If you do not train your legs properly for the hard work, then you may compensate by using other muscles like the back.


Furthermore, as you return to the ski slopes, you will use your back for many extraneous activities. You'll bend over and fool with your boots a million times. You'll lean over to pick up gear a million times, too. By doing lunges, you train your legs to do more work and give your back a break.


2) Dead Lifts- These focus on the lower back muscles. You can use dumbbells, a barbell, resistance tubing or bands, or a cable machine with the handles set low.


Generally, you can use heavier weights when you practice dead lifts. However, you should start with lighter weight and slowly progress.


If you have any previous back injuries, only perform dead lifts with the supervision of a physical therapist or qualified fitness trainer.


3) Good Mornings- These are beneficial for your lower and middle back. Unlike dead lifts, you keep the chest lifted forward during these back-strengtheners. This will improve posture and upper-body tone, as well as making the low-back stronger.


Like dead lifts, seek the care of a fitness professional if you have a history of back pain or injuries.


By practicing these three exercise diligently for a few months before ski season, you will get a stronger back, prevent back pain and injury, and enjoy your powder days more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nina_Schnipper"
I am told that sking is fun, and in the Alps at least, quite warm, so perhaps I will be going soon. If I do I will follow this advice.
Bye for now, Paul.