It’s that time of year again, ski season! As people from all over the tri-state area travel to their favorite slopes there’s more to think about than which run to hit first. Skiing is a very intense exercise that really strains your body. Between the constant weight shifting and breathing in the frigid air, this can be very taxing on your body. Skiing is a great winter pastime but if you aren’t prepared it can be miserable. There are some very important things to do in preparation before you shred your way down the mountain.
First off, what to wear: ski hat, gloves, scarf, winter coat, long johns and the usual for winter outings. However, there are a few extra things you may want to get, goggles to block wind and snow, tall socks for the boots and ski pants. Remember also to wear layers; wool is better than cotton in this case because you won’t get cold if you get wet. Don’t forget, besides your actual clothing, your equipment is even more important! Your skis, boots and poles must be properly aligned to your body. You do not want your boots to be too tight, you will be miserable and this will limit your range of motion on the slopes. Your skis will be alerted to your height and weight, this is also extreme important for balance and control on the mountain. All equipment needs to be perfectly fitted for you. Don’t borrow your buddy’s equipment unless you have it tailored to your needs, this is for safety reasons. If you have any pinching or discomfort on your run go back to the lodge and get your equipment checked out as soon as possible.
Your fitness level plays an important role in how your day will go. Skiing is not a walk in the park, it has its ups and downs. During skiing your body is straining muscles it normal doesn’t use in your daily activities. Most of these are internal balance muscles that may take some time to warm up. Skiing is very cardiovascular. If the skier is not used to this type of exercise they may get fatigued early in the day, which will lead to bad form and ultimately less control. Skiing can be very dangerous. You are not surrounded by the safety, warmth and brick walls of your gym. You are out in the wilderness in extreme temperatures doing very strenuous exercise. If you do lose control, the effects could be fatal. The harsh cold air and winds along with altitude changes can also have a big affect on your ski trip. The cold will tighten your muscles so it is imperative you stretch! You do not want to pull a muscle on the mountain. Make sure your body is limber and warmed up before getting on the lifts.
There are many preventative measures that can be undertaken to lessen the chances of an accident. Overall, once you get the hang of skiing you should be good for the day, if not there are many instructor and staff on the slopes to help out. The beginning of your trip may have its moguls but take some time to adjust. As long as you’re dressed properly and the safety precautions have been set it’s all bunny hills from there!
We feel like we have the best physical therapists around. Did you know you don't need a referral to get help from a Physical Therapist? Direct access is available for you, please call us and set up an evaluation so we can help get you back on your feet. In Orange County we offer Physical Therapy in Chester, Goshen, Monroe, Port Jervis, and Montogmery. Westchester County has Physical Therapy in Armonk, Bedford, and Hawthorne. In Ulster County we offer Physical Therapy in Wallkill, while in Sullivan County you can get Physical Therapy in Ferndale. To round out our 12 locations in New York, those living in Rockland County can go to Physical Therapy in New City as well as Pomona. If you happen to live in PA, we also have Physical Therapy in Milford and Dingmans Ferry of Pike County. Give us a call today!
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