Follow-up with... Christa Kinshofer

Interview with... Christa Kinshofer Christa Kinshofer, born in Munich in 1961, attended the Skygymnasium in Berchtesgaden. In the 1970s and 1980s, she was one of the best female skiers worldwide. At the age of 17, she achieved a breakthrough with 5 World Cup victories in giant slalom. A year later, she won the silver medal in slalom at the Olympic Games in Lake Placid. In her career, which she ended in 1988, she was named Germany's Sportswoman of the Year, won 3 Olympic medals, and secured the overall World Cup victory in giant slalom. Since 2009, Christa Kinshofer has been working as an international speaker and is married to sports orthopedist Dr. Erich Rembeck. Together, the couple runs their own Christa Kinshofer Ski Clinic in Munich. Are you still a fan of skiing? Christa Kinshofer: Yes, I am a big fan of alpine skiing. In winter, I still manage to go skiing around 20 to 25 days on average. And what exactly is the reason for that? Christa Kinshofer: Skiing is one of the most fascinating sports for me. Part of this fascination is certainly related to the speed and the alpine experience. And of course, that also means a certain level of risk. However, skiing is not more dangerous than other sports. Which skiing technique do you enjoy the most? Christa Kinshofer: Of course, as a former ski racer, I love athletic carving. Why would you advise all women to learn how to ski? Christa Kinshofer: Because skiing showcases the combination of "femininity and athleticism" as particularly sexy and confident. Although I was often called a "glamour girl" and "Hollywood Christa" during my active years, I was never bothered by it. As I said, I believe that female athletes are sexy and confident in every sport. Unfortunately, women often have more fear of injuries than men. Christa Kinshofer: Yes, but I explain to them that by behaving correctly and having optimal equipment, they can really minimize the risk of accidents. And importantly: Use your common sense and keep an overview. What does this mean specifically for female skiing beginners? Christa Kinshofer: Physical fitness is important! Take a look at my special ski fitness program "fitforski" on lxlsport. Here, I present many simple yet highly effective exercises that require no equipment and can make you fit for the ski season in just 20 minutes a day. The best way to learn controlled skiing is by training in giant slalom. A functioning first equipment makes the beginning easier and safer: this includes comfortable, functional ski clothing, a current helmet with suitable ski goggles, protectors, and well-prepared skis. You are often skiing in the USA. What is different there? Christa Kinshofer: The slopes in the USA are incredibly wide, excellently groomed with fascinating champagne powder snow. A "sheriff" ensures the safety on the slopes and monitors the skiers' behavior. If there are offenses or rude behavior, the ski pass is immediately revoked! I would like to encounter such sheriffs on our ski slopes as well!   For more information, visit: http://www.excellente-unternehmer.de/redner/christa-kinshofer-skirennlaeuferin.html