We look at safety considerations in this installment of our learn to ski guide.
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. 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.
First, make sure that you have all the equipment you need, that it's in good working order, and that you are appropriately outfitted to ski. Make sure that your skis, boots, and bindings are suited to your height, weight, and level of proficiency, and if they have sat idle for any prolonged time period, take them to a certified ski shop and have them inspected by a professional before skiing in them again. Your clothing must be wind and water resistant and should keep you adequately warm (your head, hands and feet being particularly susceptible to the cold).
If you don't know how to ski and don't have confidence in your ability, then just don't. While family and friends may know what they're talking about, it's a better idea to learn from a certified ski instructor. The better your skiing knowledge and technique, the less mistakes you'll make, and the less mistakes you make, the less you'll be putting yourself in harm's way. It's a proven fact that taking ski lessons reduces your risk of injury on the slopes.
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. Look for and obey signs and markings on slopes (particularly at the top, bottom and where slopes merge together) and if you find yourself on a slope that you feel unsafe on, side step down it (keeping your skis on).
Prepare yourself physically for skiing by engaging in a strengthening and conditioning program months in advance of your trip. 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. It is dangerous to ski when you are tired, so frequent rest breaks are important, as is knowing your own physical limits.
Taking rest breaks also allows you to re-hydrate yourself and re-apply 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.
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. 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.
First, make sure that you have all the equipment you need, that it's in good working order, and that you are appropriately outfitted to ski. Make sure that your skis, boots, and bindings are suited to your height, weight, and level of proficiency, and if they have sat idle for any prolonged time period, take them to a certified ski shop and have them inspected by a professional before skiing in them again. Your clothing must be wind and water resistant and should keep you adequately warm (your head, hands and feet being particularly susceptible to the cold).
If you don't know how to ski and don't have confidence in your ability, then just don't. While family and friends may know what they're talking about, it's a better idea to learn from a certified ski instructor. The better your skiing knowledge and technique, the less mistakes you'll make, and the less mistakes you make, the less you'll be putting yourself in harm's way. It's a proven fact that taking ski lessons reduces your risk of injury on the slopes.
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. Look for and obey signs and markings on slopes (particularly at the top, bottom and where slopes merge together) and if you find yourself on a slope that you feel unsafe on, side step down it (keeping your skis on).
Prepare yourself physically for skiing by engaging in a strengthening and conditioning program months in advance of your trip. 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. It is dangerous to ski when you are tired, so frequent rest breaks are important, as is knowing your own physical limits.
Taking rest breaks also allows you to re-hydrate yourself and re-apply 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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