5 Tips for Skiing on Bad Knees

Get ready to hit the mountains this winter even with sore or achy knees. Here are 5 tips for skiing on bad knees.

1. Don’t Forget to Stretch

Always warm up before hitting the slopes. Stretching first is a safe and good practice to follow prior to any exercise, especially in cooler temperatures. Protect your knees and avoid further injury by stretching for 5-10 minutes before skiing.

Photo Credit: Hansenit (Flickr).

2. Know Your Limits

Don’t let bad knees get in the way! From rapidly changing weather conditions to skiing at new speeds, you’ll want to take extra steps to protect your knees. Find your sweet spot by skiing at your level and slowly easing into new activity on the slopes.

3. Sign Up For Ski School

The best way to avoid injury on the slopes is to continue to train and build up your skill level. Whether you’re new to skiing or not, consider signing up for ski school or advanced classes. A trained and highly-skilled ski instructor can help guide you towards the best practices for bad knees and how to maintain proper technique when skiing.

Photo Credit: Simon Hannaford (Flickr).

4. Use The Right Gear

Don’t let bad knees keep you from hitting the slopes this season. With properly fitted gear, you can ski with achy knees and still enjoy yourself. For added support, consider wearing a compression sock to reduce pain and better stabilize your knees on the slopes.

Photo Credit: Alex Ristea (Flickr).

5. Take Water Breaks

Don’t let the high altitude get the best of you this ski season. Take breaks between ski sessions, and remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and altitude sickness. After hitting a few runs, head over to the tavern to kick back and relex.

Bad knees or not, following these simple tips will help you have a fun and injury-free ski season!