How to Avoid Ruining Your Winter with Skiing Injuries
Most of us can agree we’re a little tired of the cold weather. Until it’s time to hit the slopes that is! Whether you go skiing every winter or you’ve finally talked yourself into trying it out though, it does put you at greater risk for injury. If you take a few precautions, you should be able to enjoy the full ski season safely!
– Spend time at the gym first
Muscles that aren’t primed are just asking for injury! You should be working on your quads and hamstrings. Cardio will also help so you can handle those higher altitudes. Contact us to have an in-home personal trainer help you get ready for your skiing adventure!
– Start off slow and easy
Even the pros need to warm up. Before you hit the tough slopes, go on a few easy runs to warm up and prepare for steeper terrain.
– Watch out on the lift
Did you know that you can just as easily hurt yourself getting on or off the lift as you can on the slopes? Keep your eyes on the chair and be mindful when riding it to avoid injury.
– Don’t forget to take a rest
Skiing requires full exertion. When you don’t stop to give your body a rest, you’ll regret it. Later on in the day, you’re more prone to injury during this tired state. It’s tempting to make the most of your ski passes and go on endless runs, but check in with how you feel. Taking short breaks while up on the mountain and refueling with water will help your muscles gain their second wind that will carry you back to the comforts of the awaiting ski lodge.
– Falling is par for the course
Many people hurt themselves by fighting a fall. Rather than just going with it, they hold themselves up and wind up tearing ligaments in the process. Always be aware of your form. This is especially important as the day wears on or you’re heading off a steep run into flat lands. Falling is also ideal if you’re out of control. Try sitting to slow yourself down so you can regain control and avoid colliding with something.
– Take skiing lessons
Even if you’re well beyond the bunny hill, you should take a refresher lesson every other year to help fine-tune your skills. With correction to technique, you’ll level out your balance and be better able to prevent an injury.
– Make time for massages
Both before and after a skiing excursion, having a massage can help save your muscles. Scheduling a massage before prepares your muscles for the action while post-ski, it helps relieve the soreness and aids in recovery.
For training and massages, you can let them come to you. We offer professional in-home personal training and massages to help you prepare for skiing as well as recover from it. Throw another log on the fire and schedule your appointment today!