With the recent cold and winter approaching, Australia’s snowfields – Perisher, Thredbo, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, and Mt Buller – begin to welcome skiers/snowboarders eager to carve up the slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, preparing for the Ski Season is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s how to prepare your body, gear, and mindset for the ski season.
Preparing for the Australian Ski Season: Get Ready to Hit the Slopes!
It’s great you’re planning to hit the Australian slopes! The 2025 ski season is almost upon us, generally running from June to October, with July and August often providing the best snow conditions. Here are 6 steps for preparing for the ski season on how to get ready and avoid painful memories.
1. Build Strength and Stability
Skiing demands balance, core strength, and leg endurance. To reduce injury risk and improve performance, focus on:
- Leg Strength: Squats, lunges, and step-ups help build quad, hamstring, and glute power
- Core Stability: Planks and rotational exercises improve balance and posture on the slopes
- Cardio Conditioning: Cycling, stair climbing, and interval training mimic skiing demands
2. Improve Flexibility and Mobility
Before you hit the snow, make sure your muscles are ready to move freely to cope with the demands of skiing or snowboarding:
- Dynamic stretching before skiing (leg swings, arm circles)
- Yoga or Pilates to increase flexibility and body control
- Foam rolling to release tight muscles before and after skiing
3. Review/Upgrade Your Gear
Ensuring you have the right equipment can make all the difference:
- Check Your Boots: Make sure ski boots fit snugly, providing ankle and foot support
- Tune Up Your Skis: Sharp edges and a fresh wax job improve glide and control
- Layer Up: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated ski jacket, and waterproof pants to stay warm and dry
4. Know the Conditions and Terrain
Australia’s ski resorts offer a mix of terrain, so to help minimise risks, research the conditions before heading up:
- Check snow reports – for up-to-date information on snowfall and piste conditions
- Understand resort trails – beginners should stick to groomed runs, while advanced skiers may want to explore off-piste areas
5. Injury Prevention Strategies
Avoid common ski injuries by following these tips:
- Warm up before skiing – often overlooked, yet warming up before hitting the slopes can help prevent muscle strains and injuries
- Use proper technique – avoid twisting motions that stress the knees
- Hydrate and fuel your body – skiing burns a lot of energy, so keep your nutrition and (non-alcoholic) liquids in check
6. Get a Pre-Ski Check-Up
Book a session with our physiotherapists or Exercise Physiologists (EP) to help identify weak areas in your body that might be prone to injury. Strengthening exercises can protect your knees, shoulders, and core. Your body will love you and it could prevent a long rehab or recovery
Hit the Slopes with Confidence!
With the right preparation, you’ll enjoy better performance, reduced injury risk, and more fun on the mountains. Whether you’re chasing powder or perfecting your turns, take the time to train, equip, and plan before you head to Australia’s ski resorts.
Let the season begin—see you on the slopes! ⛷️❄️