Thread: One-leg skiing issue

So, not sure if this is the correct forum , and I'm sure a JONG is coming forthwith, but here goes anyways.

I am trying to improve my one-legged skiing (to improve my edging, balance, etc) and am not bad with my right leg, but am terrible with my left. My left knee tends to move inwards (towards my right leg) when bent forward, making it difficult to balance on that one leg. It is most noticable when locked into my bindings, almost a non-issue when not on my skis - I do have to focus on not letting it happen when I do lunges, though. Are there any exercises I can do that would remedy this issue? When I buy running shoes, the salespeople always recommend shoes that will counteract this somewhat.

I'm sure you will get jong'd for this (and shocked you haven't yet), but, as you point out, arch support can be a very good thing. I have cork footbeds and absolutely *love* them. Probably the best investment I ever made for my skiing. Last forever and you can swap them into your new boots too.

As for the one-legged skiing, just curious where you do this? I've done it just goofing around (or due to binding failure getting back to the car) and invariably been yelled at by resort staff.

Originally Posted by shafty85

So, not sure if this is the correct forum , and I'm sure a JONG is coming forthwith, but here goes anyways.

I am trying to improve my one-legged skiing (to improve my edging, balance, etc) and am not bad with my right leg, but am terrible with my left. My left knee tends to move inwards (towards my right leg) when bent forward, making it difficult to balance on that one leg. It is most noticable when locked into my bindings, almost a non-issue when not on my skis - I do have to focus on not letting it happen when I do lunges, though. Are there any exercises I can do that would remedy this issue? When I buy running shoes, the salespeople always recommend shoes that will counteract this somewhat.

Before you get jonged....got to epicski forums ..they will help

your left leg isn't as strong as your right.

You're welcome

You have two legs. Use em and have fun.

Originally Posted by shafty85

So, not sure if this is the correct forum , and I'm sure a JONG is coming forthwith, but here goes anyways.

I am trying to improve my one-legged skiing (to improve my edging, balance, etc) and am not bad with my right leg, but am terrible with my left. My left knee tends to move inwards (towards my right leg) when bent forward, making it difficult to balance on that one leg. It is most noticable when locked into my bindings, almost a non-issue when not on my skis - I do have to focus on not letting it happen when I do lunges, though. Are there any exercises I can do that would remedy this issue? When I buy running shoes, the salespeople always recommend shoes that will counteract this somewhat.

See a podiatrist.

Seriously.

Thanks for the replies. I think a podiatrist is a good idea - I've needed insoles for a while now. I'm working on the one-legged sqauts - man I suck at them.

Miss|powder - I ski Baker, WA, and Whistler, BC - never had issues at either location. I do keep both skis on, though, so... Cork footbeds, eh?

I have a pinched nerve in my back that makes my left leg 1/2 the size and strenghth of my right. Maybe that's your problem. Compensate and get over it. You probably won't make the Olympic team but other than that it shouldn't really slow you down.
Keep in mind though, I'm an incredible athlete so your results may vary.

I'll get out the ol' calipers and see if I have that issue.

Keeping your other ski on isn't going to work. I imagine your whole non-dominant side (leg, pelvis, back) is a helluva lot weaker than your dominant side. Get someone to take a pic of you one-leg squatting. See if knee is in so that your torso can centre over your foot cause your balance and strength are weak, or if its actually just crooked.

from your post it's unclear what problem you're having, i.e. whether you have an alignment issue or a weakness issue. a couple thoughts:

-if you don't have the wherewithal to figure out which leg muscle is weak, you probably wouldn't gain anything from the subtleties of one-legged skiing as a training tool anyway. -doubtful that a footbed can compensate for poor balance. at best it can realign your q angle and make your feet/legs hurt less at the end of the day.
-best way to strengthen your skiing muscles is to ski.