Running To Improve Skiing

Will it get you ready for the ski season?

This week’s blog comes from a great question I got in my inbox:

“Does trail running help me get ready for ski season?”

At first glance, it makes sense. Running looks like a series of jumps. You’re landing and pushing off almost 180 times per minute, which feels a lot like plyometric training, and it definitely builds endurance. But the question is: does running actually give us the same benefits as true plyometrics, the kind that prepares your body for skiing? Let’s break it down.

What Are Plyometrics Actually

Plyometrics are about absorbing and producing force quickly. Think of them as a three-step cycle:

1. Land (Eccentric/Down Phase) – your muscles and tendons absorb the force of landing.

2. Turnaround Time – the quick transition between going down and powering back up.

3. Explode (Concentric/Up Phase) – you release that stored energy into a powerful jump, hop, or bound.

The key is in that turnaround time. The faster and more controlled it is, the more powerful your next movement will be.

Where Running Fits In

Running can look plyometric, but here’s the catch:

Running applies force almost the same way every time.

Each step is essentially a repeat of the last. That doesn’t give your muscles, tendons, and ligaments the same tissue-strengthening variety you get from true plyometric drills.

This is why running alone doesn’t fully translate into the resilience and adaptability you need for skiing. On snow, your body experiences forces in all directions, especially during turns, uneven terrain, and (let’s be honest) the occasional crash.

The Trail Running Twist

Trail running adds a little more to the equation.

• On rocky or rooty trails, your body is forced into lateral movement.

• Steep downhills demand extra absorption and variety in foot placement.

In these cases, some of your trail running can mimic plyometric demands.

But if your trails are smooth and flat, you’re not getting that same benefit. You’ll still need gym-based plyometric training to build ski-ready resilience.

How to Add Plyometrics for Skiing

The good news? You don’t need to abandon running. Just add variety.

• Lateral jumps

• Rotational hops

• Multi-directional bounding

• Plyometric step-ups

If you want guidance, we build plyometric progressions right into our 8-Week Pre-Ski Program, so you can train with the right level for you.

Also, if you’re curious about how your skiing strengths and weaknesses line up, try out the free 2-Minute Ski Quiz. It helps you uncover your “superpower” and “kryptonite,” so you can tailor your training.

Trail running builds endurance. Plyometrics build the tissue strength and adaptability you need for ski season. Combine the two, and you’ll be ready to carve, float, and power through the winter.

Have a WILDR week, and keep the questions coming. I love hearing how you’re preparing for adventure.