Skiing is a sport that is particularly rough on the knees; despite modern equipment and advancing medicinal practices, skiing on aging joints can be a hazardous practice. So how can skiers, and athletes in general, continue to enjoy the sports they love, while minimizing the stress on their bodies? A recent article in “The San Francisco Examiner” called “Skiing on an Aging Knee,” addresses this exact issues:
Skiing into Your 80s
In the article, Dr. Kevin R. Stone, an orthopedic surgeon in San Francisco, took a look at methods to keep skiers moving well into their 80s, and one of his suggestions was soaking in a hot tub.
“To ski, we must bend the knees,” Dr. Stone notes. Bending the knee affects where you go while you ski, as well as how the rest of your body moves with the motion. The article focuses on the effect skiing has on older knees, but in reality the knee is just the lynchpin to the rest of the body. Hips, ankles, elbows, and wrists are all affected by skiing, and keeping them all healthy and functioning is critical to enjoying a good run down the slope.
Maintaining Flexibility with Hot Tubs
To help you attain maximum flexibility while skiing, Dr. Stone recommends sitting in a hot tub before hitting the hills. “Stretching in a warm bath, hot tub, or shower improves flexibility,” he writes, pointing out that such exercise helps loosen up the tissue.
In addition, the hot tub is naturally a place for you to sit quietly and clear your mind, allowing you to focus more on your upcoming ski run. You’ll have a much easier time coming down the mountain if you aren’t thinking about your upcoming work projects or other stressors in your life.
Stretching to Stay on the Slopes
Spend some time soaking in your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub or Bathtub to maximize the benefits Dr. Stone describes in his article. While you’re in your spa, perform simple stretches, such as leg lifts and toe points, to help your body limber up and prep for the skiing ahead.
