Preneur World March 2024

Get Ski Ready With Advice
From A Top Ski Coach
PHYSICAL PREPARATION
Make sure to keep yourself in good physical
condition and give yourself time to get prepared for
the mountains. Remember, skiing is an extreme sport
at high altitudes, so however you prepare off the
slopes will feel slightly more intense up at resort level
and higher still when it comes to skiing.
PRE-SKI PRACTICE
In the UK there are several indoor real snow centres
to go to practice. Whether a beginner or experienced
skier, these venues can help you make more of your
ski trip. Venues near London include The Snow
Centre in Hemel Hempstead or The Chill Factore in
Manchester. There are also many dry ski slopes to
choose from too.
FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT OF SKIING (SKI
BIOMECHANICS)
Probably one of the best things you can do before
going skiing is take yourself through the ‘Ski
Technique Lab’ program online to check your body
has the ranges of movement needed to perform
at skiing and avoid injury. Ski Technique Lab is
free and can be done at home: www.warrensmithskiacademy.com/technique-lab/.
STAY HYDRATED
When you get into your resort remember that you’ll
normally be staying in a wooden chalet or apartment.
Such accommodations can naturally dehydrate you
– it can be quite different to your normal abode back
in the UK! On top of this, usually, the excitement of
arriving has some in the mood for drinking alcohol.
Remember, the first day is the worst day to après ski!
GET THE RIGHT KIT
There is a lot to think about when you go skiing, but
good quality kit that fits you well is going to keep
you comfortable on the mountain. It’s important to
ensure that amongst all the items you need to ski,
your ski boots are a good fit and flex well according
to your body weight, height, and skiing ability. A lot
of people rush ski boot selection if they are renting,
but it will be one of the most important parts of your
ski trip. Take your time and opt for a well-fitted boot
– you can get them fitted properly in the rental shop
- insist on a good quality, new boot, that flexes well.
As well as boots, we opt for Helly Hansen skiwear,
the most technical and high-performance ski gear on
the market, trusted by professionals on slopes across
the world – including myself and the Warren Smith
Ski Team! Not only does it keep us warm, dry and
able to do our job, but our Elevation kit also keeps us
safe thanks to its luminous orange hood.
HIRE AN INSTRUCTOR
Skiing is a technical sport, so make sure you
have an instructor there to teach you everything
from the basics to advanced levels, and even
off-piste skiing. Many people try to cut costs
and leave tuition out, but it can be crucial.
It’s the instructor or coach who will help
you make it a holiday of a lifetime! Your
instructor is not only there to coach you
and give you confidence, but they’ll
also act as your guide and keep you in
the safest places and avoid accidentally
skiing into danger.
START AND FINISH
At the beginning of your day, make sure
you give yourself time to warm up - a simple
10-minute stretch before you leave the chalet.
20 PRENEUR WORLD www.preneur-world.com
WARREN SMITH