8 easy tips that can help you improve your skiing ability
8 easy tips that can help you improve your skiing ability
Whether you’re new to skiing or have plenty of experience, there are proactive steps skiers of all abilities can take to prepare for a better season. Here are 8 tips that can help you improve your skiing ability, so you can enjoy a fun and safe ski season this winter.
1. Wear the appropriate equipment
Wearing the right equipment on the mountain can play an important role in injury prevention and preparation. The first step is to make sure your skis and poles are the right length for you. If you already own a pair of skis, don’t forget to have them serviced. In the event of a fall, it’s important that your boots detach properly from their bindings to avoid any unwanted twisting of the knees. Don’t forget to check your bindings before you start skiing.
Wearing a helmet on the slopes is mandatory for a good reason. It’s one of the best ways to prevent head injuries and ensure your safety. It’s also important to know how to recognize the early signs of a concussion so you can receive the best care. If a skier nearby shows signs of concussion, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. You can print it out or save it on your phone for reference on the slopes. Learning the right moves helps prevent injury and gives you a good base from which to improve your skiing.
2. Apply warm-up techniques
Many skiers drive up to several hours to get to the ski area. Before jumping on the lift, it’s important to stimulate your muscles and stretch well.
3. Book a ski lesson
We often associate taking a lesson with being a beginner, but that’s not always the case. Even some of the world’s best skiers take lessons to improve their skiing. Not only can lessons help you become a better skier, they can also help you become a safer skier. Skiing with the right form will help you move more efficiently on the slope and prevent injuries.
4. Start off slowly
This is a good rule of thumb to follow throughout the season and on a daily basis on the slopes. For your first few days on the slopes, start with a few hours and slowly build up to full days as the season progresses. As for the slopes, after a good warm-up, start with a few easy (green) runs, then increase the difficulty as the day progresses and your abilities allow.
5. Listen to your body
Most injuries occur after 3.30pm, during the famous last run. Contributing factors are often a combination of slope conditions (stickier snow throughout the day) and the skier’s physical condition. Injuries often occur when our muscles tire. If you feel yourself getting tired towards the end of the day, it may be better to stop there rather than try to make one last run.
6. Stay hydrated
People tend to forget to hydrate when they’re on the slopes. When temperatures are cooler, we often don’t feel as thirsty as when it’s hot. In fact, skiing is a very active sport and we can lose a lot of fluids through perspiration. Don’t forget to take hydration breaks throughout the day!
7. Stretch at the end of the day
After a day in the mountains, it can be tempting to head straight to the chalet to warm up with a hot chocolate. Before you get there, take the time to stretch before your body cools down and tightens up. Your body will thank you later!
8. Take a day of rest
On long ski trips, it can be tempting to ski as much as possible. Remember that it’s okay to take a rest day here and there. This allows your body to recharge and can improve the quality of your skiing for the rest of the trip!
The best ski seasons are the injury-free ones. These 8 tips will help you stay healthy and enjoy the mountains before winter’s end.
If you have any further questions about the best practices you should undertake when exercising in winter, book an appointment with one of our treatments at the clinic nearest you.
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