Skihab: Physical Therapy for Skiing and Snowboarding

Union PT has a number of therapists who are accomplished winter athletes. We range from weekend lift accessed enthusiast to backcountry powder enthusiasts and free ski competitors. We have developed programs for the prevention and rehabilitation of ski and snowboard injuries based on our experience in the mountains and latest medical research.

Mitch Owens PT and Kristen Vaughan PT of Union PT cofounded the Alpine Training Project with Mandie Majerus of Lake Washington PT. ATP is a membership based online ski and snowboard conditioning program for all levels of winter athlete. Union PT collaborates with the Alpine Training Project to offer pre-season training programs and in-season skihab programs to improve performance and reduce your chance of missing days in the mountains related to injury.

However if you do find yourself injured in the mountains we have all of the tools and knowledge needed to help you get back out there.

Our skihab programs are designed to allow you to train with a whole season in mind while tracking your progress. We are all licensed physical therapists with backgrounds in recovery science, zone based training, squat biomechanics and the principles of physiologic adaptation. ATP is research-led with the individual starting point driving the component exercises. See how dryland training can exponentially improve your time in the mountains.

Always consult your physician or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program. The general information we are providing here is not meant to substitute or replace a healthcare professional. If you think you have a health emergency or experience increased pain please call your doctor or 911 immediately. We make no representations or warranties concerning any usage of the information here and will not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, exemplary losses or damages that may result. Reliance on any information contained in these videos is strictly at your own risk.

 

Program Highlights:
  • Return to Sport Plans
  • Performance and Prevention Training Plans
  • Fitness Classes for Winter Athletes

Self Assessment

Screen your systems and learn where you need to focus your training. This assessment will give you a sense for the strength, mobility and control that is required for your sport. This will give you tools to know which exercises are best for you.

Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Conditioning

This program will help you get ready to hit the slopes when the lifts start spinning or tune up mid-season in anticipation of that upcoming trip.  Start stronger and stay out there longer when you train with this 3 phase, 8 week program.

ATP offers a Reduced Impact and High Impact conditioning programs.

Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding Training

This program will train you for the up and the down. Our three phase, 8 week program is designed to help you gain the mobility and endurance you need for breaking track and making kick turns on steep terrain as well as the strength and control required for descents in uncontrolled terrain.

Dry Land Ski Conditioning at Union Physical Therapy in Seattle

Dry Land Ski Conditioning at Union Physical Therapy What is Dry Land Ski Conditioning? Union PT is collaborating with the Alpine Training Project (ATP) to offer a six-week ski conditioning series. The PTs who founded ATP have spent years refining a program that is focused on improving your performance while aiming to reduce your change... Read more »

Top 5 Exercises to Prepare for Cross-Country Classic and Skate Skiing

There are many ways to enjoy winter in a snowy place, but cross-country skiing, also known as nordic skiing, may arguably be one of the greatest in terms of combining great exercise with beautiful scenery.  Cross-country skiing provides a full-body workout involving upper body, leg and core strength, cardiovascular endurance, and balance. Additionally, cross-country skiing... Read more »

How to stay safe, have fun, and minimizing injury risk on the ski hill Partnering with Steven’s Pass Ski Patrol

How to stay safe, have fun, and minimizing injury risk on the ski hill Partnering with Steven’s Pass Ski Patrol By Kristen Vaughan, DPT After an early season teaser that got all of the powder hounds drooling, we now all wait in anticipation for the heart of the season to commence and take what days... Read more »