Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports, and with good reason. It provides a welcome break from the monotony and dreariness of the winter months. It’s also a chance for people to showcase their speed and agility. There’s nothing like rocketing down the side of a slope and basking in the wondrous winter landscape.
However, just like any other sport, skiing also comes with risks. Protective gear such as a helmet and an Arcteryx ski jacket helps with your performance. Still, you need to follow a few safety precautions and practice your skiing techniques to minimize the chances of a mishap from happening. All that speed means you need to be serious about safety.
If you wear the right gear and take all the necessary precautions, you can have a safe and productive time on the slopes. Here are a few safety tips to get you started.
1. Get in shape before hitting the slopes
While you don’t need to be an athlete to ski, the sport can be very demanding. It’s best to start working out a month or so before the winter season to prepare your body for the rigors of skiing. Losing some weight and getting fit allows you to ski longer instead of spending most of your time soothing your sore muscles. Your downtime is also lessened, allowing you to make the most out of your mountain time.
The best way to prepare for skiing is a mix of strength and cardio exercises. You can also ask a trainer for ski conditioning exercises to target the right muscle groups.
2. Use a helmet
One of the most common ski-related injuries is head trauma. It can be caused by anything from slips, falls, or slamming into another person, object, or even into the snow. To minimize the severity of head trauma, you need to wear a ski helmet to protect your head. Helmets help make sure that you get a headache instead of cracking your head open if you hit a tree.
There are many types of ski helmets available on the market, so you need to buy one that meets minimum safety standards. If possible, get a Snell-certified ski helmet for maximum protection.
3. Wear sunscreen
Just because you’re surrounded by snow doesn’t mean you don’t need to wear sunscreen. The snowy surface can magnify the power of UV radiation. It’s not uncommon for skiers to get sunburn and heat up after a long day on the slopes. Before going outdoors, make sure to wear sunscreen and bring a bottle with you.
Since your body is going to be covered in winter gear, you only need to cover exposed areas such as your face and neck. You’ll also need to reapply the sunscreen every three hours for maximum effectiveness. If possible, keep a small bottle in your jacket pocket for easy access.
Speed and snow can be a dangerous combination, but these safety pointers can help you make better decisions and enjoy your time on the slopes. Every sport carries an element of risk, and it pays to be prepared to keep accidents from happening.
