Avoiding Injury on the Slopes

     Heading out to enjoy the slopes this winter? Don't head out before reading these tips. They'll help you avoid injury and stay safer on the slopes.

Get in Shape

     Many people only ski or snowboard once or twice a year. Due to this, they may get sore after the first day on the slopes, since they may be using muscles they don't normally use or that aren't used a great deal on a daily basis. You wouldn't just go out and run a 5K marathon with no training, would you? Of course not. This is why it's important to do some exercises before your ski vacation. Get in ski or snowboarding shape by doing targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles you will use the most on the slopes. Your stamina will also be a factor on the slopes. Don't forget to incorporate cardio exercises into your workout. In general, you'll have less chance of injury if you are in good shape.

Take a Class

     If you've never been skiing before, you want to ease yourself into it. Consider taking a ski class. or if you're a skier and want to try snowboarding, it's a good idea to take a beginner's class first. Just a little instruction will go a long way in terms of your safety and your enjoyment.

Wear Safety Gear

     To prevent injury, one of the easiest ways is to simply wear safety gear. If you are concerned about a head injury, wear a helmet. Perhaps you are a snowboarder who has broken or sprained their wrist before? Don't hesitate to wear a wrist brace. There's also braces and pads available for elbows, knees and even your rear end. For snowboarders, they are prone to ankle injuries. For this, you'll want to look for boots that provide extra ankle support.

Wear Gear That Fits

     You know what it feels like when you wear shoes that don't fit? Kind of uncomfortable, right? Even painful sometimes. Well, don't take that same risk with your ski gear. If you use the wrong size of boots, bindings or use skis or a board that aren't right for your size and weight, this may hinder your safety. For example, let's say you are heading down a run and your boot and binding comes loose. You could seriously crash, even putting your life and other people's lives in danger. Make sure you go to a sporting goods store and have a professional help you pick the right gear that is the right size for you.

Wear Your Goggles!

     Last but certainly not least, wear a good pair of ski or snowboarding goggles! Goggles will keep snow, sun, wind, tree branches and anything else away from your eyes. In addition, goggles prevent glare from the snow and sun, which is crucial for visibility, and therefore safety, on the slopes.