Never Skip Après Ski…

Snow is sticking to the ground around the country, snow-making machines are blasting away at ski resorts everywhere and if you are lucky enough you might have skied powder by now.

Most resorts in the US opened up over Thanksgiving weekend. I love this time of year, back on snow and catching up with friends I haven’t seen since last spring.  My favorite time of day is après ski… but finding the balance between continuing my fitness training and sharing the party can be challenging. Here are some pointers on how to do it all.

Buzz management…

Early in the season everyone is stoked to be back on the hill and the social scene can be quite fun, making après ski hard to skip.  This does not mean you can’t still get in a work out.  I allow myself one drink, catch up with my friends, make plans for the evening and then ditch out for a quick workout. If I don’t work out just because I had one drink, I would miss many opportunities to exercise.

After skiing I like to head to the cross-country track for a quick skate ski.  An hour of aerobic exercise after a day of skiing is just want I need to keep the routine going strong.  If I make this plan, it keeps me from partying too hard at après and continuing my conditioning for the season.

One of the best après ski spots, the Sitzmark at Alyeska Resort. 

Stretch/Yoga whatever you call it… do it.

Keeping joints, ligaments and muscles loose and limber is as important as being strong when it comes to preventing injury.  Especially if you find yourself sore from early season skiing, take the time to loosen up and love your body.  Sometimes I find myself at the end of the day enjoying a glass of wine and I realize I haven’t stretched all day. Just because I’m enjoying an adult beverage doesn’t mean I can’t stretch, actually I think it helps. This works well when you are at home.

If you are still in your ski clothes, please don’t start doing yoga moves on the bar. If you go that route, don’t mention my name.

Tio Bob’s in Portillo, Chile where après ski starts at noon for some. 

Get it while it’s good

Early season conditions often mean limited open terrain and thin snow pack. Get out early and carve up the corduroy and good conditions before the crowd trashes it, then go do something else like hit the gym, hike, snowshoe or XC ski.  After you’re done, head to après ski feeling great about your day.

Hard to resist a slope side hot tub in a beautiful place.  Valle Nevado, Chile