We look at safety considerations in this installment of our learn to ski guide.
Injury rates are lower for skiing than for many other recreational activities, but there are still thousands of ski-related injuries every year. The nature of it means that you'll always be at a degree of risk, but there are things that you can do to minimize the risk of sustaining an injury.
The first consideration is dressing appropriately for skiing, and making sure that you have all the necessary equipment, and that it all works as it should. Your boots, bindings and skis should all be tailored to your weight, height, and level of expertise and should be checked over by a certified ski shop after every prolonged absence of use. It is important that your attire is suited to skiing by keeping you warm (especially your feet and hands), and by protecting you from elements like water and wind.
Ensure that you know how to ski and feel confident doing so. While family and friends may know what they're talking about, it's a better idea to learn from a certified ski instructor. Improving your technique and skill lessens the chances that you'll make a mistake that will result in injury. Research has proved that those who take more ski lessons are less at risk of injury than those who have taken fewer lessons.
Staying safe means staying within your level of proficiency, which includes keeping your speed safe in relation to how well you ski, and avoiding unpredictable maneuvers or stopping unnecessarily, and further includes paying attention to the things around you, such as how crowded the slope is, what the weather is like, and the condition of the slope. There may be times when you find yourself on a slope that causes you to feel unsafe; if so, side-step down it with your skis on. Pay close attention to posted signs (predominantly at the top and bottom of slopes, and in the convergence of slopes) and obey them.
Don't try to ski yourself into shape, rather, prepare months before your planned ski trip with a good strengthening and conditioning program. Your focus should be on aerobic training, complemented by some weight training. You will not be able to ski for very long without succumbing to fatigue if you are not well-conditioned and physically fit. Be aware of your own physical limits, and stake frequent rest breaks, as skiing when you are tired can be dangerous.
When you stop for a rest break, make sure you rehydrate yourself and that you re-apply your sunscreen. Drinking enough water is critical to avoid nausea, fainting and altitude sickness, and sunburn is more likely at high altitudes so use a sunscreen with a 30+ factor even on cloudy days.
Injury rates are lower for skiing than for many other recreational activities, but there are still thousands of ski-related injuries every year. The nature of it means that you'll always be at a degree of risk, but there are things that you can do to minimize the risk of sustaining an injury.
The first consideration is dressing appropriately for skiing, and making sure that you have all the necessary equipment, and that it all works as it should. Your boots, bindings and skis should all be tailored to your weight, height, and level of expertise and should be checked over by a certified ski shop after every prolonged absence of use. It is important that your attire is suited to skiing by keeping you warm (especially your feet and hands), and by protecting you from elements like water and wind.
Ensure that you know how to ski and feel confident doing so. While family and friends may know what they're talking about, it's a better idea to learn from a certified ski instructor. Improving your technique and skill lessens the chances that you'll make a mistake that will result in injury. Research has proved that those who take more ski lessons are less at risk of injury than those who have taken fewer lessons.
Staying safe means staying within your level of proficiency, which includes keeping your speed safe in relation to how well you ski, and avoiding unpredictable maneuvers or stopping unnecessarily, and further includes paying attention to the things around you, such as how crowded the slope is, what the weather is like, and the condition of the slope. There may be times when you find yourself on a slope that causes you to feel unsafe; if so, side-step down it with your skis on. Pay close attention to posted signs (predominantly at the top and bottom of slopes, and in the convergence of slopes) and obey them.
Don't try to ski yourself into shape, rather, prepare months before your planned ski trip with a good strengthening and conditioning program. Your focus should be on aerobic training, complemented by some weight training. You will not be able to ski for very long without succumbing to fatigue if you are not well-conditioned and physically fit. Be aware of your own physical limits, and stake frequent rest breaks, as skiing when you are tired can be dangerous.
When you stop for a rest break, make sure you rehydrate yourself and that you re-apply your sunscreen. Drinking enough water is critical to avoid nausea, fainting and altitude sickness, and sunburn is more likely at high altitudes so use a sunscreen with a 30+ factor even on cloudy days.
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