The ultimate Ski Trip Fitness guide

Sandy-Ski

Preparing for the slopes- TruBe Trainer Sandy Rowe

If you’ve never had the opportunity to ski, you’re in for a treat! 

Skiing is a great workout on your whole body, which also requires good mobility. A pair of ski boots weights between 3-5kg and that’s just moving around the resort. Add in the g-forces as you ski and you’ll need to make sure your legs are prepped for anything you decide to throw at them.

To start with I’ll use low weights and focus on stability within the joints. As your strength improves, so will the weights that you use. Your body will adjust to the load, so that by the time you reach the slopes, you’ll be ready for anything your instructor throws at you. Be that your first green run, progressing to a blue, red or even black run and maybe a few moguls added in for good measure!

At the end of every session I spend at least 10 minutes stretching. This maintains (and can improve your mobility), ensures that you flush out toxins from the body and leaves you feeling relaxed and refreshed from a workout. You can also have a chat to me about sports massage and how this would work for you before and during your time in the mountains.

If you do more than one discipline, please can break them down. As we may split the content depending on the discipline.

If you’re a regular skier, you’ll already know what ‘the burn’ feels like. Usually on the quads, glutes and core, especially if you’re travelling at speed and like to feel the grip on the slopes.

You want to make the most of your time on the slopes (and make it to après ski afterwards!), so it’s critical that you have the leg endurance to last the course of the day. If you’re anything like me, performance is everything when skiing and your body must be strong. The forces applied to your body through each turn, mean that lateral (sideways), rotational and forward focused exercises are key. Taking the body through the whole range of movement available allows your body to move in a similar way while skiing. If you’re looking to euro-carve on the slopes, you’ll need this!

By strengthening the core, this will stop you collapsing at the bottom of the turn and be able to spring into the next turn. The strength you’ll have built in your legs will propel you down the slopes like a gazelle and you’ll feel energised at the end of the day.

Ski Ski Ski Ski Ski Ski

I’d recommend at least 4 weeks of training prior to your ski trip, with 2 sessions per week. During week 1 your body will get prepped for exercise (there may be a little muscle soreness). Weeks 2-3 you’ll build on the strength from week 1 and start to see improvements in not only strength, but also flexibility. Week 4 you’ll test your strength, consolidate your skills from the first 3 weeks, mobilise and taper ready for your holiday.

All about the glutes

It’s often said that we do too much sitting, reducing the mobility and strength of this muscle. This can be seen when skiing. If you struggle to grip the ski on the snow, or your knees knock together during the turn, it’s highly likely that the glutes are causing the issue.

Test your reactions

If you’re skiing through moguls, trees or even negotiating a narrower slope, you’ll need to have good reaction times so you can turn as you need. It’s often very busy on the slopes and good reactions can be the difference between staying on your feet and going down.

Balance is key

Walking around with an extra 2kg attached to your feet can offset your balance. Add on the weight of a ski and binding, and you’re looking at 4kg per ski. Add in speed, obstacles (and by that I mean other skiers) and steeps and you need to make sure that under weight, you have the strength to maintain your balance and separate upper from lower body movements.

Rotational movement

Two of the key areas I work on with skiers are separation and pivoting. Both of these movements come from the hip and revolve around hip mobility, leg and core strength. These are often overlooked when prepping for skiing in favour of squats and lunges.

Ski Ski Ski Ski Ski Ski

How to recover

At least 500ml of water prior to an après beer. It’s often difficult to stop for long periods of time in the mountains, however, at altitude humans lose a greater percentage of hydration. If you are 1-2% dehydrated, your performance decreases by up to 25%. Therefore, while you’re ordering that first beer or mulled wine, ask for a glass of water at the same time.

A minimum of 10 minutes stretching every day. This will maintain the length of your muscles and make you feel less sore the following day.

A good sports massage through the legs. There really is nothing quite like the new leg feeling after a good sports massage. Your legs will be thankful for it the following day. Look at getting this half way through your week or immediately after your trip.

A rest day. This isn’t always possible for everyone, however, half way through the week, think about potentially having a rest day. Trust me, this is easier said than done (and make sure it’s not on the day the new powder lands!), however, your body will thank you for it.

Reduce the risk of injury

Sleep is when our bodies recover from the daily activity, so aim for at least 8 hours of quality sleep every night. By getting in 8 hours of sleep, you’ll avoid stiff and sore muscles, which don’t react as well and can increase your risk of injury.

I know this is a holiday and you want to enjoy it, however, think about keeping your alcohol intake to 1-2 glasses per day. Alcohol is more potent at altitude, inhibits REM sleep (which is the restful part) and also inhibits muscle growth. It can also give you a really sore head the next day, which isn’t much fun on a ski holiday!

Nutritional advice


Food in the mountains is notoriously nutritiously poor. I’m thinking tartiflette, pizza, cheese, red meat, wine, beer and the list continues. Before you go, think about upping your vegetable intake to help offset the lack of nutritious food available. Similarly, when you return, try to eat a more balanced diet with good vegetables, fruits, white fish and white meat to offset the fat content.

Mountain life usually involves a fair bit of saturated fat (cheese, meat, butter, croissants), so opt for porridge in the mornings. Oats help lower your cholesterol levels (produced by eating saturated fat) and will help keep you on an even kilter. They are also very filling and should keep you going until lunch time calls. Buy fruit at your local supermarket in the mountain and use these as your snacks throughout the day. I’m a big fan of apples and clementines, although the later do tend to get a little squashed throughout the day!

I burn approximately 2,500 calories per day in the mountains. This is approx. 2-300 calories less than I would if I was working as a trainer every day (I’m on my feet all day!), but 6-700 more than if I was sat at a desk every day (that’s a non-training day). So you may need to make sure you have enough fuel with your while you’re travelling around the mountain. Having a few snacks and some water will mean you’re always in a good frame of mind to make those quick reaction decisions. If you’re only out for half the day, this doesn’t mean you can over indulge!

Start your preparation

Book a ski inspired workout with one of our top personal trainers! One-to-one sessions will help transform you in a matter of weeks. Click here to start your journey.

You are ready to ski. Enjoy!

Nutrition and fitness during the holidays

TruBe Trainer
The holiday season has landed and with Christmas around the corner, it’s certainly the most wonderful time of the year.
Winter, when the parties are in full swing, a chill is in the air and mulled wine and mince pies are in never ending supply, it’s no wonder many people are easily sidetracked from their fitness and nutrition goals. By the time January rolls around, that all too familiar sluggish feeling and few extra pounds hits us like a ton of bricks.This is one of many reasons not to toss away the daily routine in favour of overindulging. Maintaining a regular schedule will not only keep you on the straight and narrow, but, as mountains of research has revealed, will help promote optimal equilibrium in the mind and body. With a change of mindset, we can look at the holidays as a welcome opportunity to spend time on your personal goals.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the holidays:

 

Set boundaries, and stick to them.

The holidays may be an excuse to have fun, but they shouldn’t be an excuse to let the diet pendulum to the extreme. Setting goals, writing them down and visualising your boundaries, especially during difficult situations where food is in copious amounts, is vital for keeping our calories intake under control. Perhaps it’s avoiding sweet trays at Christmas parties, skipping alcohol on nights out or adding an additional training session to your workouts – your goal is to practice self-discipline and meet your self-expectations. That feeling of achievement is worth it every time.

On the subject of alcohol…

It’s a time to be merry and celebrate the festivities whilst being mindful of the effects of consuming high volumes of alcohol. With one large glass of wine amounting to 185 calories and a pint of beer at over 200 calories, a few drinks go a long way in contributing to the daily calorie intake. Worst of all, studies have shown the possible added side effect of increased appetite and cravings from alcoholic beverages. Avoid the downward spiral by reining in the drinking and soaking up the festive fun and spirit instead.

Maintain an exercise schedule.

During the holidays, with more time on our hands, there is a tendency to move less and lounge more, resulting in fatigue. Combat this by making a conscious effort to move the body more throughout the day. TruBe trainers remain and the great outdoors awaits, so breathe in the fresh air as you are guided towards your goals with simple movements inspired by all things festive.

Crunched for time? Try this no equipment, no fuss, at-home 30 minute workout to fire up the muscles and get the heart rate up.

HIIT (3 rounds, 40 seconds on/20 seconds off)

  • Burpees
  • Mountain climbers
  • Alternating lunge kicks
  • Push ups with shoulder taps
  • Jump squats

Conditioning (3 rounds)

  • 25 squats
  • 30 alternating back lunges
  • 30 plank taps (tap the hand one at a time in front)
  • 20 tricep dips
  • 30 courtesy lunges

Core focus (3 rounds)

  • 30 oblique twists
  • 20 alternating single leg raises
  • 40 second forearm plank
Key tip – spend 5 minutes on dynamic stretching and a cool down incorporating static stretches.


It’s not all or nothing

We have all been there – breakfast starts off well but then things goes awry by lunch, and so follows an unhealthy pattern for the remainder of the day. Kick this vicious cycle to the curb by remembering there is leeway in our daily food intake, where we can and should savour a treat now and again. When it comes to diet, veering off course is part of the journey. Get back on track by preparing a healthy meal for dinner. The golden rule to remember during this time of year is eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed.

Drink more water

Healthy skin, improved digestion, blood pressure regulation and a host of other benefits arise from the simple act of drinking water. Just a 2% decrease in the body’s water balance can bring about an onset of unpleasant symptoms from dehydration. It’s especially true during the holidays when we are more likely to overload our bodies with excess sugar and alcohol. Keep the system moving, the mind sharp, and ward off those pesky headaches by guzzling least two litres of water daily, as recommended by the Eatwell Guide UK.

Practice mindfulness

The holidays are a busy, hectic and somewhat stressful period, where jam packed schedules and a lack of routine can overwhelm. Take a few minutes every morning and once throughout the day to practice mindfulness and self-compassion, which helps to keep everything at balance. At its core, the holidays are a time for spending with loved ones, giving back to others and celebrating the true essence of Christmas.

Enjoy all that it brings as you gear up for a successful 2020 ahead

Happy holidays!

With thanks to, TruBe Trainer: Leoni J., level 3 personal trainer, specialising with clients new to fitness.

TruBe Trainer

 

TruBe- SkyGarden Sunrise Yoga

Join us on the 36th floor!

SkyGarden is the perfect setting for Sunrise Yoga not to mention the session is then followed by a delicious breakfast.

Feel uplifted

Vinyasa style yoga is not only designed to suit a broad range of abilities, the art will help wake up your body and mind with ease, take a breath and be in the moment, there is no better way to prepare yourself for the day ahead. Stand strong, be free and stay true.

‘Very good experience in London ! Very good teacher and excellent breakfast. Of course, an amazing view. Don’t miss it !’

Yoko Kuide (Left), Anna Norbury (Right)

Bucket list

London life is fast paced, demanding and full of opportunities, we are here to motivate you to seize each and everyone! Take the plunge and try something truly inspiring.

‘It was a truly amazing experience. As soon as it finished I wanted to book it again for the following week.’

Nadezhda Bocheva

Get a high

Our mission to ensure each and everyone of our customers has the best experience, that each user will have a positive fitness journey, helping you set clear goals that are personal and achievable. Our extensive network will encourage you to reach new heights and help you learn more about your abilities, all you have to do is select your team mate. Once you have taken the first step the rest will come naturally.

‘TruBe’s trainers are fun, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable! Such a great resource for anyone wanting to get fit but not sure how to or what kind of exercise they like. So many different things to try and extremely flexible!’

Get in touch to find out more. 

Your TruBe team.

The Role of Exercise in Mental Wellbeing

Mental Health Awareness Week is an amazing way to bring to light a topic that can sometimes be hard to talk about. Although this week has now passed, it still remains a subject that will always be at the forefront of our minds. Our very own founder and CEO, Daria Kantor, has shared her thoughts on the often overlooked role of exercise in one’s mental wellbeing. Daria is an extremely passionate campaigner, we hope her words inspire you:  

‘I read a statistic this week that declared that in the past year, 74% of people have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope. That’s an overwhelming majority and whilst mental health is more and more regularly addressed, there is still a significant amount to do.

I count myself remarkably happy to have grown up around sport and to have been able to enjoy an active lifestyle. I played competitive sports from the age of nine and although I was always aware that I was never likely to be a professional athlete – it was the mental aspect of the game that I always loved.

Mental Health Awareness Week was the week of May 14th, hosted by the Mental Health Foundation. Mental health has always been something I am interested in, conscious of and keen to raise awareness around. It is also an area where in my role as CEO of TruBe, the personal fitness app, I have seen the important relationship between exercise and mental wellbeing. So, what are the benefits?

Tackling Depression & Anxiety

It is interesting and eye opening that in the UK, GPs are now diagnosing exercise as part of a treatment plan to tackle depression. According to one medical study, “physical activity has been consistently shown to be associated with improved physical health, life satisfaction, cognitive functioning, and psychological well-being.”

Morale Improvement

There is no question that exercise can have a positive impact on your mood and morale. A study, read on the Mental Health Foundation, revealed the fascinating results of a study, when researchers asked people to rate their mood immediately after periods of physical activity (e.g. going for a walk or doing housework), and periods of inactivity (e.g. reading a book or watching television). Researchers found that the participants felt more content, more awake and calmer after being physically active compared to after periods of inactivity.  Exercise is also proven to reduce stress. When we work out, we increase the concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that can moderate the brain’s response to stress.

Prevent Cognitive Decline

Mental Health, as a turn of phrase, is such an incredibly broad collection of conditions, issues and demons. However, one area in which studies have shown some real benefits of exercise, is in the battle against Alzheimer’s. Working out, especially between age 25 and 45, boosts the chemicals in the brain that support and prevent degeneration of the hippocampus, an important part of the brain for memory and learning.

Battling Addiction

One of the sad truths of those struggling with Mental Health issues is the side effects of their condition. One of the more common of these is addiction, often to narcotics, but really it can be to any number of vices. Not only can exercise be the distraction that your body may yearn for, it can also dramatically reduce an individual’s craving elsewhere.

Mental Productivity

Whether exercise is the switch off you need from work, or the driver behind creativity, there is significant research to show the role of working out in improving an individual’s productivity. In turn, this improved productivity helps the individual battle against their mental health issues, assisting them to tackle situations head on and progress.

Coping Mechanisms

Sport and exercise also enhance an individual’s coping mechanism. Whether that’s a gradual understanding of how to handle defeat, or how to overcome a series of challenges, the mental process required to combat disappointment is invaluable for one’s mental health.

The list could go on. There is the element of human interaction, of team building, of physical improvement. There is, to me, no argument that stacks up against the importance of fitness and exercise in helping people deal with their mental health issues.

I wholeheartedly appreciate that exercise is just one vital ingredient in the a more complex battle. But it is certainly that, vital. I also recommend anyone struggling to visit the websites of the wonderful Mental Health Foundation or Mind. There is help out there and no problem is too small or too large to ask for help.’

We hope Daria’s words have resonated with you. We are here for you here at Trube, whether that be a training session to help get out your unneeded stress or a fitness consultation to help inspire you.

Your TruBe Team

 

Workout Beauty Tips with Amanda Harrington

KAY WETTASINGHE

We have exciting news to share! We are extremely proud to announce that we have partnered with InParlour, London’s premier beauty concierge service. An amazing team, handpicked by InParlour’s founder, Amanda Harrington, they are incredibly talented, personable and ready to help you achieve your ultimate beauty look this Summer.

In honour of this new collaboration, we decided to get some top tips from Amanda in an all-you-need to know Q & A. Amanda let us in on the best beauty tips during a workout and post workout! Here is what she had to say…

TruBe: What’s the best makeup to wear during a workout?

Amanda: The best for maintaining makeup throughout a workout is definitely Sports FX Time Out Face Mist. If you’re into lashes, the best lashes to wear that last would be Eyeko Yoga Waterproof Mascara. And the best makeup for adding colour would be E.L.F. Workout Ready Lip & Cheek Palette.

TruBe: What are some tips for skin care during and after a workout?

Amanda:

  1. Do not apply heavy makeup, but if you do have a lot of redness in your skin, look for moisturisers or skin serums with soothing ingredients such as white tea, sea whip, azulene, chamomile and bisabolol which will help to calm the skin by taking the pressure away from the capillaries.
  2. Post workout is the most important time to protect your skin, it needs moisture and restorative antioxidants to hydrate, feed and protect it against damage.
  3. Your skin is susceptible to breakouts all over your body should you not cleanse it properly post workout. Don’t forget about other parts of your body apart from your face; change out of your fitness gear immediately, as it will allow your pores to breathe and prevent breakouts in areas such as your back and chest.
  4. If you’re working out outdoors, opt for a vitamin C antioxidant serum and a high SPF moisturiser (non clog) for hands, neck and face.
  5. After a workout, use a salicylic face wash to immediately take of sweat and toxins on skin to avoid post sweat spots on face.

TruBe: How can you have a fake tan that won’t run/smudge when you sweat?

Amanda: Definitely don’t apply fake tan on the day you exercise. Make sure the top layer is washed off and allow 12-24 hours for the colour to settle before breaking a sweat. Fake tans that are a mousse formula are the best tans for a non-smudge experience.

Fake take neck

TruBe: What’s the best hair care if you tie up your hair a lot, or alternate things to do with your hair when working out, to stop it getting damaged in a tight bun/bobble?

Amanda: The Hot Head Microveil treatment is a heat activated mist that responds as body temperature rises and the hair cuticle opens. It’s rich in argan oil and the treatment conditions and hydrates the hair as you condition your body. Make sure to use a protein shampoo and conditioner to protect the ends from getting damaged. I personally use a Redken Extreme Shampoo and Conditioner to protect my hair against damage.  Kerastace Resistance is a good cheaper alternative. Moroccan Oil intense hydrating mask is the best thing to apply when you wash your hair post workout and is a steal at £9!

We thoroughly enjoyed speaking with Amanda and we hope these beauty workout tips inspire you to feel fabulous no matter what the occasion.

We believe that a positive state of mind is crucial for good health, happiness and success. Your body craves goodness, the better you feel the better you look, and vice –versa!

This is why we have created the following Experience days for two:

Package 1

1 Hour Wellness session fit for 2.

With TruBe you are bound to find your perfect match. Whether you want to channel that feeling when you last danced the night away or make a memory that lasts in a moment of pure bliss, TruBe have got you covered. Choose from over 300 TruBe trainers, specialising in a wide variety of disciplines, ranging from Ballet and Yoga, to Personal training and Boxing, all perfect for a session fit for two.

Classic Manicures for 2

Hands are soaked, massaged and exfoliated, nails are then shaped and the cuticles are tidied. Our technicians stock a variety of classic polishes including OPI & Chanel in all current and classic colours. (90 mins)

Gel Manicures for 2

A long lasting chip free colour with a glossy finish. Polish is UV cured, meaning there is little or no dry time. Therapists use CND, Gelish, OPI & other leading brands. (90 mins, £10 extra pp)

£160

Package 2

1 Hour Wellness session fit for 2.

With TruBe you are bound to find your perfect match. Whether you want to channel that feeling when you last danced the night away or make a memory that lasts, in a moment of pure bliss, TruBe have got you covered. Choose from over 300 TruBe trainers, specialising in a wide variety of disciplines, ranging from Ballet and Yoga, to Personal training and Boxing, all perfect for a session fit for two.

Long Lasting Blow Dry & Style for 2

This thorough process will ensure that your hair maintains that newly blow-dried look for days. Roll-brush, pin-set and roller blow dry are all available. (90-120 mins)

£200

Package 3

1 Hour Wellness session fit for 2.

With TruBe you are bound to find your perfect match. Whether you want to channel that feeling when you last danced the night away or make a memory that lasts, in a moment of pure bliss, TruBe have got you covered. Choose from over 300 TruBe trainers, specialising in a wide variety of disciplines, ranging from Ballet and Yoga, to Personal training and Boxing, all perfect for a session fit for two.

Event Makeup

From a red carpet event to a friend’s party, we know how important it is to be feeling your best. Let one of our Pro Team Artists teach you how to do it. Whether you want the natural look or full on contouring and smokey eyes, we will create the look for you. Individual or strip lashes are included in the application. (90-120 mins)

£255

Personal Touch:

Call TruBe to make a booking or find out more on, 02034437074. Office hours run from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, alternatively you can send us an email via concierge@trubeapp.com. Hurry, this offer is only available until the 31st May, with 6 months to name the date.

Please note:

Once a purchase has been processed, the data provided will be received by TruBe and InParlour, this is for booking purposes only. As both brands run a bespoke service, you may be contacted by both TruBe and InParlour to discuss your booking requirements, this will be made as straightforward as possible, and will be explained further in a confirmation email. Your data will not be used for any other purpose, unless you decide to subscribe to receive updates and promotions, this can be done via TruBe and InParlour, please get in touch to find out more.  

T’s & C’s

There are a few T’s & C’s that will just need to be included from our side of things.

  1. With manicures and pedicures, the total price does not include gel polish removal.
  2. With Blow dries, we ask that the customers have washed, damp hair upon arrival.
  3. The treatments will not occur at the same time, but one after the other, as one therapist will be supplied per booking.
  4. Offer running from 17th May for a limited time only
  5. Bookings must be made 48 hours in advance during office hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-16:00)
  6. Offer available to London, Zones 1 & 2
  7. Direct bookings will be taken, trainers and stylists are subject to availability.