Skiing while obese
jennybearlv
Posts: 1,519 Member
To celebrate my next mini-goal of 224 lbs I would like to try skiing. I'm about 40 minutes from Tahoe and feel like I'm missing out on a great opportunity. I was wondering if there are any sort of weight or size limits when it comes to equipment I would be renting. I did a Google search and mostly came up with people talking about physical fitness and big calves not fitting into ski boots. I run, lift, and live at 5000' so I'm not too worried about fitness, but will my 18 inch calves be fine in ski boots? Is there anything else I should be thinking about before going? I was planning on taking a lesson to get started and just going for one day since I'm so close.
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Replies
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Have fun3
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Nordic or alpine?
Guessing alpine because of the boots thing. Downhill skis are pretty strong because of the forces involved. I wouldn't worry about it.
If you're doing alpine, try Nordic, too. The boots are a hell of a lot more comfortable, and you can make it a great workout if you want to, basically like running without the impact.1 -
When you go, if you don't own the skis, boots, and poles, they can fit you in that rental equipment. It is much, much, more difficult for me to ski being overweight, than at goal weight. To get up if you fall, is easier if your lighter, and a bit harder being larger. Bring a friend with you. So make sure when buying your lift ticket, you purchase a half day pass, half day beginer lesson. Are you pretty good with your balance? Be careful. Go slow. Snow plow, snow plow. Bring your own warm gloves, hat, sunglasses or goggles, a backpack and water. You can pack your own lunch if you want. Just let them fit your feet and calves for the boots. Probably a non-rear entry boot, a standard entry boot with buckle closures over the top of your foot. Have fun.... Take some pictures, and post them!!
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Ps. I started skiing when I was 13. My mom sent us up to China Peak on the Jack Peroni ski bus every Saturday to get us out of her hair. So, we would have a half day of lessons, and half day whatever we wanted. I loooove to ski!! Last time I went, we went to Alpine Meadows, Northstar, Squaw Valley, and Heavenly. One of them had a ice skating rink too. Now that I think of it, its been 10 years since I've been skiing.
That sucks. 0 -
NorthCascades wrote: »Nordic or alpine?
Guessing alpine because of the boots thing. Downhill skis are pretty strong because of the forces involved. I wouldn't worry about it.
If you're doing alpine, try Nordic, too. The boots are a hell of a lot more comfortable, and you can make it a great workout if you want to, basically like running without the impact.
I was thinking alpine, because I can't remember what flat looks like. But I looked up Nordic and apparently that is a thing around here on the California side. The first place I clicked is way cheaper than anything downhill I was looking at. I think I have some more research to do.When you go, if you don't own the skis, boots, and poles, they can fit you in that rental equipment. It is much, much, more difficult for me to ski being overweight, than at goal weight. To get up if you fall, is easier if your lighter, and a bit harder being larger. Bring a friend with you. So make sure when buying your lift ticket, you purchase a half day pass, half day beginer lesson. Are you pretty good with your balance? Be careful. Go slow. Snow plow, snow plow. Bring your own warm gloves, hat, sunglasses or goggles, a backpack and water. You can pack your own lunch if you want. Just let them fit your feet and calves for the boots. Probably a non-rear entry boot, a standard entry boot with buckle closures over the top of your foot. Have fun.... Take some pictures, and post them!!
Thanks for the advice. I have pretty good balance and a low center of gravity, so I'm hopeful. If not, I was a terrible gymnast as a child so I am good at falling. I still have 6 more pounds to this goal then probably want to wait for a clear weekend, but I'll post up some photos when I go.1 -
Nordic (aka cross country) isn't just for flat ground. It's actually a lot more fun with hills. It's definitely cheaper than alpine/downhill in every way. The boots are locked to the skis at the toe, but on a hinge so you pick your heel up as you go - it feels like walking, a very natural movement. I sound like an evangelist; I took a downhill lesson and the boots felt like a cast and I wasn't comfortable. I tried Nordic, and it was like a fish to water. So my opinion is very biased, but you should for sure give it a try.
I want to second @HyeKarma's advice about bringing a pack with what you need. Especially water. It's amazing how the cold air pulls it out of you.
And whatever type you do, I hope you enjoy it. Winter is beautiful, skiing is a fun way to take in the sights and enjoy fresh air and open sky above you.0 -
You should be fine - people wayyy bigger than you ski.
I used to work at one of the major resorts in Northern Vermont.
One big warning I have is to just be sure to keep things short and sweet. Take a lesson--this sport is very complex and learning to do it right is very important. BUT DO NOT PUSH IT. The way people get injured is by squeezing in one more run because of the lift ticket price. That's when muscles are tired and it's more likely to have falls and injures. And if you are heavier, the more mass when you fall. Better to stop before you're really really tired and avoid that.2 -
And don't be afraid to fall if you can't control your speed! Fall on purpose that is. Taking a lesson is definitely a good idea. If you have good lower body strength and can shift your center of gravity it helps a lot. And snow plow/pizza poses will be your friend - just make sure you have good knees and engage your quads since bevelinf your foot inward can cause joint stress. I have bad knees but love to ski, but I concentrate on my thighs and gluteus mediums muscles when I strength train since I work them a ton skiing.
And have fun! Winter sports are the best, and it is so freeing to ski. Kudos to trying a new support too, I love the challenge of working my muscles in a new way (I'm debating boxing or karate myself for 2017!). Report back
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All the advice above is good. As far as boots, women's downhill boots are typically designed to accommodate our larger calves. Try some rental skis/boots or for a more custom fit "demo" some different skis and boots from a retail shop. Most of all, just have fun with it.1
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3 other things I thought of for you. And they are important.
1 - Not sure what vehicle your driving. But check the road conditions. You may need to have chains for your vehicle. My husband just drove from Reno in a Chevy Colorado, and other person in a commercial larger truck. And for 6 miles by Donner Pass chains were required. If you expect that chains are required, purchase from your local sporting goods store. While your driving, they will stop you when they need to be put on, and taken off. Allow the guys to do that for you. They charge cash money. Its more to have them put on, and a little less to have them taken off. And well worth the money. Take some extra cash, just for that.
2- Sunscreen for your face. In your pack.
3- A good chapstick for your lips..
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Interesting discussion. I agree with quite a bit. I love the idea of paying someone to put on your chains and then take them off. I never got the knack for that skill (wanted to be independent) and have ended up losing several pair because I couldn't put them on right. Now I drive a Subaru and just don't worry about it. Personally, I don't like bringing a water pack with me skiing. I hate the feeling of the pack against the chair. It makes me feel like it is pushing me to the edge, and if you decided to take it off every run then you have to fool with it when you get on and off the lift, and when you are just learning, this is a huge distraction. I have on occasion seen backpack straps get caught in the chairlift. Not life and death, but again a pain. Also, there should be plenty of water in the lodge. Beginner slopes are often located right next to the lodge so it is not hard to go inside for a minute and get a drink. Love the half day idea for first time out. For me, goggles are a must. If you don't want to buy try to find someone that you can borrow them from. I would wait for a nice day. First time out, there are enough stresses. It is good not to worry about the cold/visibility/difficult snow conditions. Skiing is a lot of fun eventually. It took me a while to get it.1
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One more thought: rent a helmet. Having been the recipient of several head injuries which fortunately didn't result in serious damage (that I know of
) I'm a strong believer in protecting my brain. A side benefit is they keep your head warmer. 2 -
jennybearlv wrote: »NorthCascades wrote: »Nordic or alpine?
Guessing alpine because of the boots thing. Downhill skis are pretty strong because of the forces involved. I wouldn't worry about it.
If you're doing alpine, try Nordic, too. The boots are a hell of a lot more comfortable, and you can make it a great workout if you want to, basically like running without the impact.
I was thinking alpine, because I can't remember what flat looks like. But I looked up Nordic and apparently that is a thing around here on the California side. The first place I clicked is way cheaper than anything downhill I was looking at. I think I have some more research to do.
Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski area is in Truckee almost across the street from the golf course. They have some really great trails, and some good instructors (last time I was there was 6 years ago though).
Nordic skis are sized by mass. Just about any place that rents them will have something that works for you - usually about in the 190-200cm range. Ski poles are sized by height (naturally).
Royal Gorge in Soda Springs looks nice too, but I've never been. At the time, Tahoe Donner was much cheaper for skate ski lessons 2 -
I think you'll be fine. I would highly recommend taking a lesson. My 1st time skiing was my friend taking me telling me she'd teach me. She got me to the top of the bunny hill, told me to point my toes together when I wanted to stop and left me for the bigger hills. It was horrible, but luckily I gave it another chance and love it now.
I 2nd no back pack. It's going to be a challenge enough learning to ski without having to worry about getting hooked to something.
Goggles are great as well. If it snows, the snow will sting your eyes, if it's sunny, you'll be blinded, sunglasses allow wind to blow right in your ears which is miserable. You can find goggles for $20 to $25 or try to borrow from a friend.
Learning is the hardest part. Once you've got the feel for it, skiing is an amazing sport. Have fun!!1 -
No worries on boots - they will be fine. Ski pants are a challenge, don't hesitate to try men's (can't tell) and bibs are more comfortable.0
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Rental boots are seemingly always very soft and wide compared to new boots, so you are unlikely to have a big issue there.
One caution: it is important to tell the rental people your weight honestly, so that the DIN setting on your bindings is correct for you - otherwise, you might end up losing a ski at an unwanted moment and that can be pretty dangerous, especially when you aren't used to bailing on skis. Novice skiers aren't going to be skiing aggressively and needing a crazy high DIN even if they are heavy, but it's still important that your skis only release appropriately and not the first time you attempt to stop or whatever.1 -
I've only done Nordic myself (and at much higher weights than your current one) but I really don't see why not.
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Thanks for all the replies. They have been helpful and encouraging. I hit my mini goal last week and am planning my ski day. I've decided to do cross country at Tahoe Donner. It's about an hour from me and there are some good deals on lesson packages. Now I have two more questions.
1. What kind of weather is good for XC? Chain controls and traffic slowdowns are a headache in even slightly bad weather on the 80, so warm and clear would be ideal for driving. Would a sunny 50 degree day be good for skiing or is colder better? As the trails are groomed should I care about recent weather and how much or what type of snow has fallen?
2. What should I wear? Can I just wear my running gear or do I need specific clothes for skiing? How about my husband who owns no athletic or snow clothes, what should he get?1 -
jennybearlv wrote: »2. What should I wear? Can I just wear my running gear or do I need specific clothes for skiing? How about my husband who owns no athletic or snow clothes, what should he get?
Congratulations on your progress so far - and what a great way to celebrate!
I tried out skiing for the first time last year - had the best time and can't believe I'd not tried it sooner.
In terms of kit, I'd definitely recommend buying/borrowing waterproof salopetes and a ski jacket as a minimum. If you're just starting out, you'd expect a couple of falls and it'll get miserable fast if you're just in running clothes and get cold and wet...
Have fun 0 -
Skiing is super fun, I done it at many weights. Above all else, wear a helmet.0
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jennybearlv wrote: »2. What should I wear? Can I just wear my running gear or do I need specific clothes for skiing? How about my husband who owns no athletic or snow clothes, what should he get?
Congratulations on your progress so far - and what a great way to celebrate!
I tried out skiing for the first time last year - had the best time and can't believe I'd not tried it sooner.
In terms of kit, I'd definitely recommend buying/borrowing waterproof salopetes and a ski jacket as a minimum. If you're just starting out, you'd expect a couple of falls and it'll get miserable fast if you're just in running clothes and get cold and wet...
Have fun
I have waterproof pants and a jacket for when it's raining and snowing. Would that work?0 -
I personally wear a long sleeve wool base layer under a wind breaker, and if it's going to be below about 25 I'll wear wool long johns under my pants. Merino glove liners are the right amount of warmth for me but let me use my fingers, like to grab a picture. But I like to ski fast. I see people skiing in down jackets sometimes and I wonder how they can do it.
You'll probably go at a walking intensity your first time so a soft shell might be a good idea. Skiing will keep you warm.
Snowing and raining are the worst weather to ski in. If you get sunny days, those are ideal. The trail will stay in good shape after it's groomed, and better scenery.0 -
I just went skiing and the first day was awesome, it was sunny. The second day was foggy, you could not see a thing and that was a bummer. Anyway, I hope that the conditions will improve for the rest of the trip.0
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Holy post resurrection, Batman!
Still, for anyone else who got really excited to see a question about skiing (and any lurkers from 4 years in the future who are interested in learning to ski
), I’d like to add my tips. I have had the pleasure of teaching beginners of all ages (from 5 year old children to 70+ year old adults) and along a vast spectrum of special needs (from learning difficulties to physical challenges, such as amputees and partially sighted). I can’t begin to tell you how incredibly rewarding it is to see all kinds of people take up the sport, so I’ll jump at the opportunity to give some encouragement here on MFP!
I’ll repeat the previous advice to be honest about your weight, height, boot length and age/ski ability when being fitted with equipment: the DIN setting on the ski relies on these measurements to calculate the torque that will release your boot from the ski, and believe me, you don’t want that going wrong. However, we do know how intimidating this can be, so instructors do our best to put people at ease when getting the equipment sorted out.
Our club asks all beginners to step on our scales, so don’t be alarmed if they ask you to do this: when I calculate a DIN I take the readings in Kilos and I tell my beginners that I don’t understand the metric system (our computer has options with both), and that usually puts people at ease.
For boots, just ask for your normal shoe size: you’d be surprised at the number of people who will ask for an incorrect shoe size, which is really odd! If you know you have a wide calf then ask for ‘a wide fitting’ as makes do vary quite a bit. Lots of boots have closures that can also be adjusted to fit a wider calf. (Very occasionally, someone has a small shoe size and a wide calf, and this can sometimes mean you have to go up a shoe size to get a reasonable closure on the boot at the calf. This isn’t great, as your foot will be loose in the boot - and therefore you won’t be getting the best contact with your ski - but for the first lesson or two it won’t make a whole heap of difference.)
In terms of learning the basics of skiing, I have found that there is really very little difference between body shapes and sizes. Virtually every beginner will be using muscles they never knew they had! Those that find it ‘easier’ tend to have good natural balance, can change what their body does according to verbal or kinetic feedback, and will have a ‘quiet’ upper body: those that find it ‘harder’ will be the opposite, with poor balance (or a more dominant leg), who can’t change what their body is doing, and will wave their arms around like they’re trying to fly... However, I have seen plenty of ALL types learn to ski, and it usually comes down to attitude rather that aptitude!
So, good for you @GordonMiller12nKi - I am very happy that you shared your experience and I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip!
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Oh wow thanks for the tips. I have always been in love with winter sports and skiing in particular but I have always been on the heavy side and it kind of made me very self-conscious when it came to working out and skiing. I have always been the one on the sidelines when we would go hiking or when my family would plan a trip somewhere I would always back out at the last minute.
But with the pandemic and all the restrictions and so many people dying I finally understood that I don't have time to live my life on the side lines. I called my primary and we discussed the potential strain skiing can have on my knees. He said that as long as I am careful and learn the proper technique I should be fine. I am currently in the process of looking up different resorts that are open atm. I am using this page here: bluehouseskis.com I have seen a few cool options but if you guys know a good ski resort with a great instructor I would greatly appreciate it0 -
A couple of things: YOU WILL FALL. And though it's snow, the bigger you are the harder you'll fall. And if you fall wrong (say ski catches in the snow) you could get majorly injured. There will be ski lifts to ride. Not trying to deter you, but obese people HAVE TO take that into consideration because any injury that lays you up in a bed COULD lead to higher weight gain due to inactivity and possibly being discouraged.
I would take lessons if you go and stay on the easiest hills.
A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
IDEA Fitness member
Kickboxing Certified Instructor
Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
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Have fun!!
If you’re losing your balance, fall!! Always fall. Never try to recover as a beginner.
I once twisted my lower back trying to recover and I fell hard and it took 5 months to heal.0 -
Personally I'm overweight and I found skiing really didn't suit me. The boots were so uncomfortable and I am not morbidly obese or anything, I'm just a few stone overweight but it really didn't work. I couldn't do it because my body was too heavy. The boots were pinching a LOT because my calves were squashed into them, and it made the whole experience really uncomfortable.
I'd been gifted a week's beginner course but I got to the end and I hadn't passed to be able to go on the big slope, because I still couldn't even turn
It was really sad because I would love to be able to ski but for me I wouldn't go back again until I weigh less.
Another thing to bear in mind is that you need quite a lot of core strength - which I don't have - because you have to keep getting yourself back up when you fall down. Sometime it's really awkward because the boots are heavy and you might have to reach down to undo your skis to stand up. Skiing is a lot harder than it looks!
If you still want to go then I would recommend at least buying your own boots if you have large calves, because it's horrible to get to the place and find they don't have anything suitable or that you have to squash in to what they do have.0
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