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Get Ready for the Ski Season in South America: How to Train at Home to Shred the Andes

Get Ready for the Ski Season in South America: How to Train at Home to Shred the Andes

By Niki Salencon – Pro Skier & Co-Founder at Esnativa

Why Every Skier Should Train Before Hitting the Slopes

Whether you’re dreaming of carving fresh lines in the Andes or preparing for your next ski trip in South America, one thing is clear: skiing demands physical preparation. From the steep backcountry terrain of Patagonia to the groomed runs of Chile’s top resorts, having a strong, resilient body can transform your entire experience on the mountain.

Training for skiing isn’t just about performance—it’s about enjoyment, safety, and longevity. When you’re fit, you ski more, recover faster, and explore farther. And you don’t need a gym membership or high-tech gear to get there.

This guide is designed for anyone planning a guided adventure tour, off-piste skiing in Patagonia, or a custom ski experience across the Andes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, building ski-specific strength and endurance at home is one of the smartest ways to prepare.

Curious about where you could go?
Check out our Andes trip map and explore our range of ski Chile and Argentina tours.

Benefits of Pre-Season Ski Training

If you want to make the most of your ski adventure, especially in demanding regions like the Andes, pre-season training is essential. Here’s why:

  • Strong legs provide control and stability

  • Cardio endurance means longer ski days with less fatigue

  • A solid core protects your lower back during dynamic movements

  • Good balance helps with variable terrain and off-piste conditions

  • Improved mobility reduces injury risk and supports better technique

Whether you’re joining a small group expedition or a luxury ski tour in South America, this kind of preparation pays off.

How to Train for a Ski Trip—Without a Gym

You don’t need a fitness center or expensive machines to prepare for your Patagonia ski tour. With a bit of space and commitment, you can get mountain-ready from your living room, garden, or nearby park.

This simple, effective training plan is built for skiers heading into remote ski destinations, especially those looking for tailor-made adventures with physical demands.

Weekly At-Home Ski Training Plan

Monday / Wednesday / Friday – Strength & Stability

  • Bodyweight Squats – 3 sets of 15 reps

  • Wall Sits – 3 x 45 seconds

  • Planks – 3 x 1 minute

  • Single-Leg Step-Ups – 10 reps per leg

  • Optional: Walking Lunges – 15 reps per leg

Tuesday / Thursday – Cardio & Mobility

  • Bike Ride or Hike – 30–45 minutes

  • Balance Work (Slackline or Drills) – 10–15 minutes

  • Dynamic Stretching – focus on hips, spine, shoulders, and hamstrings

This routine supports the physical demands of adventure travel in South America and helps you get the most out of your trip.

Pro Tips for Staying Consistent

  • Keep sessions short—consistency matters more than intensity

  • Get outside when you can—especially if you’re preparing for Andes mountains travel

  • Warm up and cool down every session

  • Track your progress—it builds motivation

  • Add variety: yoga, resistance bands, hiking, or climbing all help

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Preparing your body is one of the best ways to elevate your next ski experience. Whether you’re exploring the backcountry with locals or enjoying sustainable tourism in Patagonia, you’ll be stronger, safer, and more confident.

If you’re planning a trip soon, check out our available guided adventure tours and custom ski experiences across Chile and Argentina. From high-altitude resorts to volcano missions, we design trips for every style of skier.

Start Training Today and Make the Most of Your Ski Season

Fitness is freedom in the mountains. When you’re strong, you explore more terrain, feel less fatigue, and ski with better technique—all while reducing the risk of injury. Whether you’re joining a South America expedition or planning a solo adventure, training is how you show up ready.

Looking for the right trip for your level and goals?
Get in touch with us and let’s plan your dream ski tour in Patagonia.

Travel with locals. Ski smart. Explore farther.
See you on the mountain,
– Niki