Back on the Slopes: Midwest Skiing at Welch Village

Molly Wichman, personal trainer in Lee's Summit, shares health and wellness tips for fitness & health. Today it is Back on the Slopes: Midwest Skiing at Welch Village

As a personal trainer and health coach based in Kansas City, I spend most of my days helping people move better, get stronger, and enjoy active lives. But every once in a while, it’s important to take your own advice—pack up the family, chase a little adventure, and put your fitness to the test in a brand-new (or long-forgotten) way.

This winter, that adventure took me and my son to Welch Village in Minnesota, and I can confidently say it’s a great hidden gems of Midwest skiing.

A Midwest Ski Surprise

If you’ve never skied in the Midwest, Welch Village might surprise you. Tucked into the rolling bluffs of southeastern Minnesota, it offers varied terrain, well-groomed runs, and a welcoming, family-friendly vibe. Coming from Kansas City, it was an easy trip—and proof that you don’t need the Rockies to have a legitimate ski experience.

For my son, it was pure excitement: chairlift rides, fresh air, and the thrill of flying down the hill. For me? Equal parts joy, nostalgia, and respect for how demanding skiing really is.

First Time Back in 30 Years

Here’s the honest truth: I hadn’t skied in over 30 years.

Clipping into my skis again was a humbling moment. Muscle memory is real—but it’s not magic. The first few bunny hill runs reminded me that skiing demands coordination, balance, and joint stability in ways that most gym workouts don’t fully replicate.

That’s where my trainer brain kicked in.

Why Lateral Training Matters (Especially for Skiing)

Before this trip, I made sure to prepare my body with lateral movement training—something I recommend to all my clients, whether they ski or not.  Also functional fitness > looking fit any day!!!

Skiing places a huge demand on the knees, hips, and ankles, especially in side-to-side motion. To get ready, I focused on:

• Lateral lunges

• Skater jumps

• Lateral cable kicks

• Band-resisted side steps

• Single-leg balance work

These movements strengthen the muscles that protect the knee joint and improve stability under load. On the slopes, that preparation paid off. My legs felt strong, my knees felt supported, and I was able to ski confidently without soreness or fear of injury.

Fitness Is About Living, Not Just Training

One of the most rewarding parts of this trip was sharing it with my son. We laughed, challenged each other, and created memories that go far beyond any workout session.

This is what I remind my clients all the time: fitness is a tool. It’s not just about reps, sets, or numbers on a scale—it’s about being able to say “yes” to experiences. Yes to travel. Yes to adventure. Yes to keeping up with your kids.

Skiing Welch Village wasn’t just a vacation. It was a reminder that staying active keeps doors open at every age—even doors you haven’t walked through in decades.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or someone who hasn’t hit the slopes since the last century (like me), preparation matters. Train smart, move laterally, take care of your joints—and don’t be afraid to try something again, even after a long break.

From a Kansas City trainer to a Minnesota ski hill, this trip was the perfect blend of family time, fun, and functional fitness. And I can say with confidence: it won’t be another 30 years before I ski again.

With over 20 years of experience in health and fitness, I provide sustainable fitness to help you lose weight and boost energy through simple, effective workouts and nutrition.

In Good Health,

​Molly Wichman​

​Personal Trainer in Lee's Summit