Would you like to ski better, recover quicker, and get more fun from your lift pass? Skiing and boarding places intense physical demands on your body, so it's important to get into shape.
Ideally, do some pre-ski training for 6-8 weeks beforehand, although any training will help. The three types of training that will have you fit to hit the slopes include cardiovascular training, resistance training and stretching.
A good aerobic base will give you more energy for repeated runs throughout the day and help you adjust to the higher altitude. It will also increase your tolerance to the lactic acid that can build up in your legs from repeatedly turning and crouching.
Getting stronger by lifting weights can add power and control to your legs, and help prevent injury by stabilising the hip and knee joints. A strong abdominal core will also improve your balance on an uneven surface like snow.
Improving your flexibility can increase the range of motion of your muscles and joints to allow for any sudden changes of direction, and help to prevent knee injuries.
The risk of sun damage to your eyes is high on the slopes because ultraviolet (UV) rays reflect off the snow. The thinner atmosphere is also less effective at filtering UV rays. Over-exposure to UV radiation can damage your cornea, resulting in bloodshot, teary and gritty eyes for up to two days. Extreme cases can even results in temporary vision loss, or snow blindness. Follow these tips to protect your eyes and maximise your enjoyment on your next trip to the snow.