7 Tips to Stay Safe on the Slopes!

January 12, 2012

For many of us, winter means it’s time to pull out the skis and dust off the ice skates. But if we’re not careful, snow sports can often lead to injuries – whether a nagging pulled muscle or a serious tear. I have been a skier myself for three decades and have never had a serious sports injury. Follow a few of my tips for injury prevention and to stay in top form all winter long.

Stay well hydrated. Dehydration can happen quickly, and we’re often less aware of it during the winter than we are during the summer.
Wear a helmet. Protecting your head is essential in case of a fall.
Know when you are tired and don’t push yourself for that last run of the day! Many accidents happen when we’re too tired to maintain control.
Stay fit year-round. A strong, healthy body will serve you well on the slopes. Cycling is a great low-impact way to cross-train in warmer weather.
See your chiropractor. Getting adjusted helps your body behave in a more coordinated and balanced way. Fewer falls= less injury.
Avoid alcohol at lunch! Many people look forward to a quick beer in the ski lodge at lunchtime, but alcohol can contribute to dehydration and lead to accidents on the slopes. Save it for the end of the day instead.
Take a lesson to improve your skills. It’s never a bad idea to sign up for a lesson to improve your confidence and control. If you are skiing – or skating or snowboarding – using poor form, you could be setting yourself up for injuries down the road.