We can blame the British weather for one good thing this Summer – staying in shape. With afternoons of rosé, BBQ’s and ice-creams all washed off the menu we’re focussing on keeping those ski legs in shape whilst we still can. The minute the sun comes out I’m fully expecting excuses of all sorts so until then take note of our ways to keep up your ski fitness this Summer with these different exercises and classes. Of course these are best done alongside a dedicated ski fitness regime such as Pure Powder’s ski fitness programme – Pure Powder are the UK’s heli ski and off piste specialists so we know the best way to get ski fit!
Ski Fitness Tip 1: Outdoor Fitness Class
A healthy dose of physical exercise does wonders for the soul. Based in 12 different South London locations, One Element offers hour long workouts designed to make you stronger, leaner and more energised. Using kit like boxing pads and tackle bags there are moments of wondering if you’ve unwillingly walked into the Harlequins training grounds, but you’ll be taking part in an all-round workout delivering excellent results. Sprint training, team games and high intensity circuit training all feature and will get you to your peak of physical fitness in no time. Suddenly the slopes look a lot more manageable come winter.
Sign up at www.one-element.co.uk to receive your first class free. £45 a month for unlimited sessions
Ski Fitness Tip 2: Bootcamp
If you’re more of a tough nut (and by tough nut I mean willing to sweat like you’ve never sweat before), sign up for the infamous Barry’s Bootcamp now open in London having taking the US by storm. With classes burning up to 1,000 calories per hour, this intense cardio workout combines strength training run by role-playing ‘drill sergeants’ there to help push you to your limits. The 6AM starts at their Euston base may not suit everyone but classes run till late at night and at least your visit is rewarded with enjoying some rather plush surroundings. Their Euston base has a protein shake bar, free towels and Malin & Goetz beauty products to enjoy.
http://www.barrysbootcamp.com From £20 per class
Ski Fitness Tip 3: Cycling
Arguably nothing increases your fitness quicker than cycling. They’re London’s only pay-as-you-go studios located in Putney and Wimbledon, Pedal Studio offers spinning with the added bonus of technology. Every rider is given a heart rate transponder belt putting your heart rate on a big screen to keep you in the training zone appropriate to the class. Classes are suitable for beginners to those training for big races but don’t let your other cyclists in the fancy kit put you off. These are flexible, easy going studios where you work to your own personal maximum. Weight loss, strength and muscle tone will come in time but for now sit back, spin and enjoy the Ibiza playlist. Those mogul fields won’t know what hit them.
Visit www.pedalstudio.co.uk to sign up for 7 days of unlimited classes for £12
Ski Fitness Tip 4: Personal Training
Staying motivated is tough but finding the right personal trainer (who instils a healthy dose of fear and optimism) doesn’t need to be a luxury of celebrities. Wander into Lomax Fitness in Chelsea and you’ll think you’ve walked into a Los Angeles TV show – firstly because they have a café downstairs featuring deliciously healthy meals and smoothies but their studio is spotlessly clean and welcoming i.e no hardnut trainers with whistles in sight. Don’t be fooled – they know how to get you fit with high intensity ‘Blast’ classes, spinning and pilates but signing up for some personal training will deliver excellent results and keep you in peak physical condition. All the more room then to leave with one of their special summer picnic hampers for Wimbledon!
Receive your first free personal training session at www.lomaxpt.com, rent a pod for £10 per hour or a blast class for £25
How do you stay ski fit over the Summer? Do you follow Pure Powder’s ski fitness programme or are you jumping in the Serpentine each morning or putting your feet up? We’d love to hear how you stay ski fit…