In this installment of our learn to ski guide we look at safety.
Statistics indicate that the injury rate for skiers is lower than that of many other recreational activities, however, there are still thousands skiing injuries sustained every year. There will always be a certain degree of risk, but you can minimize it by following some basic guidelines.
Check that you have all the necessary equipment, and that it's in good, working condition, and that you're wearing the appropriate attire. Remember that your boots, your bindings and your skis should all be tailored for you - your weight and height, as well as your expertise level - and have them checked out by someone at a certified ski shop before using them again after any prolonged period where they have not been in use. Keeping yourself warm, particularly your hands and feet, and making sure that your clothing is resistant to both wind and water is of particular importance.
If you don't know how to ski and don't have confidence in your ability, then just don't. Learn from someone who knows how to teach - a certified ski instructor -- and avoid taking pseudo-lessons from friends and family members. Reducing the number of mistakes you make will reduce your risk of injury, and improving your skiing skill and technique is the best way to reduce mistakes. Research has proved that those who take more ski lessons are less at risk of injury than those who have taken fewer lessons.
Ski only at a speed which is safe (in relation to your ability and experience, the number of skiers around you, the condition of the slope and the weather conditions), don't make any rash or unpredictable maneuvers, and never stop unnecessarily. 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.
As with any sport, you must prepare yourself physically, so start a strengthening and conditioning regime several months in advance of your ski vacation. Focus on aerobic training but complement it with some weight training also. 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. Regularly drinking water is important as failure to do so can result in nausea, fainting or altitude sickness, and sunscreen (factor 30+) is essential, even on cloudy days, because the sun's rays are stronger at high altitudes and the snow reflects its rays.
Statistics indicate that the injury rate for skiers is lower than that of many other recreational activities, however, there are still thousands skiing injuries sustained every year. There will always be a certain degree of risk, but you can minimize it by following some basic guidelines.
Check that you have all the necessary equipment, and that it's in good, working condition, and that you're wearing the appropriate attire. Remember that your boots, your bindings and your skis should all be tailored for you - your weight and height, as well as your expertise level - and have them checked out by someone at a certified ski shop before using them again after any prolonged period where they have not been in use. Keeping yourself warm, particularly your hands and feet, and making sure that your clothing is resistant to both wind and water is of particular importance.
If you don't know how to ski and don't have confidence in your ability, then just don't. Learn from someone who knows how to teach - a certified ski instructor -- and avoid taking pseudo-lessons from friends and family members. Reducing the number of mistakes you make will reduce your risk of injury, and improving your skiing skill and technique is the best way to reduce mistakes. Research has proved that those who take more ski lessons are less at risk of injury than those who have taken fewer lessons.
Ski only at a speed which is safe (in relation to your ability and experience, the number of skiers around you, the condition of the slope and the weather conditions), don't make any rash or unpredictable maneuvers, and never stop unnecessarily. 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.
As with any sport, you must prepare yourself physically, so start a strengthening and conditioning regime several months in advance of your ski vacation. Focus on aerobic training but complement it with some weight training also. 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. Regularly drinking water is important as failure to do so can result in nausea, fainting or altitude sickness, and sunscreen (factor 30+) is essential, even on cloudy days, because the sun's rays are stronger at high altitudes and the snow reflects its rays.
0 comments:
Post a Comment