Skiing, a magnificent pastime activity and a competitive sport that entails riding down the slopes on snow is one of the most thrilling experiences a person can have. It is also one of the most dangerous.
Starting to ski can be a nerve-wracking experience. Every rookie skier begins with their legs wobbling, sliding over sideways, and swaying left and right in an attempt to maintain their balance and avoid colliding with something. We won’t deny that some accidents are unavoidable due to circumstances beyond our control. In fact, many skiers sustain injuries to the lower regions of their bodies, such as their ankles and knees, merely due to the force and impact applied to these joints when skiing.
Having said that, there are numerous techniques for avoiding injuries and remaining as safe as possible while skiing or snowboarding. The following are some of the best skiing safety tips for beginners from skiing gurus to bear in mind this winter.
Wear a Helmet
We can’t stress how important this safety tip is. Some skiers may not like the idea of donning a helmet, but it is fundamental that you do so.
Helmet use is just as critical while skiing as it is when riding a motorcycle, given the fact that many skiers regularly reach a maximum speed of 30 mph or more. This is particularly true when you consider how much ice there is on the slopes.
Head injuries from skiing and snowboarding are among the most commonly treated in emergency rooms, according to The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), and among the top 10 sports-related head injury types for children ages 14 and under. This is a significant matter even in the United States, where just a small percentage of the population lives close to mountains. That’s something to ponder.
Skiers and snowboarders are more likely than any other group to have a fatal or severely disabling head injury. Insurance companies often require that you wear a helmet if you’re going skiing or snowboarding, so make sure you ask about it before buying a policy.
Exercising in Advance
One must warm up and do some exercises before heading out for a day of skiing. In addition to being physically stronger, a healthy individual is also more likely to avoid getting injured in the first place.
A planned diet and regular exercise will help your body function at a higher level on the slopes. Skiers need to be both flexible and alert, so it’s a good idea to loosen up with a few exercises before hitting the slopes. You’ll have the best shot at successfully riding if you get to the mountains in decent physical shape.
Preparing for a trip by engaging in regular cardiovascular activity will have a positive impact on your health and well-being. If you incorporate yoga into your fitness routine, it could be extremely beneficial.
Pack Appropriate Clothing
Do not worry about the weather condition as long as you have the perfect clothing. Prepare for your first ski trip by packing the appropriate apparel.
In general, the three-layer approach is the most effective one. To begin, put on a base layer that’s made to wick away moisture from your skin. Mid-layers are often made of fleece or wool and are designed to keep you warm by keeping your temperature stable.
Ideally, your outer layer should be a windproof and waterproof jacket to protect your second layer from the elements. To enable sweat to escape, the outer layer must be breathable.
Wear a Pair of Good Goggles
Wearing ski goggles in addition to a helmet will ensure your comfort and safety on the slopes. A set of goggles will not only provide you with a clear view while skiing, but they will also shield you from the sun’s harmful rays and keep your face warm as you’re slamming down the mountain.
When wearing a helmet, you’ll need to make sure that the goggles you’re wearing are properly fitted to your face.
Try Not to Borrow Equipment
Skiing Gurus generally recommend to avoid using rented or borrowed equipment. Ski equipment rentals are somewhat acceptable if you need them, but it’s critical that the skiing gear you rent fits properly, which is unlikely to happen if someone else’s helmet or ski boots are being borrowed.
Additionally, while purchasing equipment for your own use, please make certain that it is the correct size for you. Injuries to the legs, ankles, and knees are some of the most prevalent among skiers. Therefore this is very crucial when purchasing boots.
Stick to the Beginner Terrain
Confidence is essential in life, but it doesn’t imply you should immediately take on the most difficult challenges. The best bet is to stick to the easy slopes until you feel confident in your abilities. Afterward, you’ll be ready to tackle more difficult terrains. Make sure you master the basics before your first solo journey by taking a lesson first.
Know and Follow the Rules
Like the Highway Code, the International Ski Federation’s (FIS) rules of conduct specify how you should act while skiing on-piste. In addition, they are legally binding. The most crucial guideline to follow is that the skier takes precedence over everyone else in front of you.
The following are some of FIS’s rules:
- Overtaking: To overtake, you must allow adequate room for the skier in front of you to make any necessary or accidental maneuvers.
- Assistance: Skiers and snowboarders have a responsibility to help each other if something goes wrong on the slopes.
- Climbing or descending on foot: Walking up or down the mountain is permitted, provided that you stick to the right side of the piste.
- Stopping on the piste: It is not permitted to stop on the piste unless it is absolutely necessary, especially in tight or poorly-lit parts of the hill.
Take Breaks
We cannot function properly without periodic breaks. It’s easy to ignore the physical effects of skiing because of the adrenaline rush. Every few hours, take a little break and refuel your body with water and food. As with any form of physical activity, hydration is vital.
Keep Your Gear in Check
Snowboarders should ensure that their boards are equipped with ankle straps and that they actually use them. If you want to take your snowboard off during a run, simply put it in the snow upside down with the bindings hanging out of the snow, and you’re done.
There is nothing worse than a board that has gotten away from you; it can take up a lot of speed and cause serious injury. As a skier, check to see that your little “stabby” portions remain attached to the ground after your skis are removed from the ground.
Watch Out for Collisions
Being aware of your surroundings is essential at all times. Even if you’re an expert, there’s always the possibility that someone else isn’t. One of the most common causes of ski-related accidents is a lack of control by the skier. So constantly keep an eye out for other people, and don’t expect that your own abilities will keep you safe.
“Look up, not down” is a common adage for skiers. When you’re out on the ski trails, it’s easy to break this rule, even though it seems obvious. You should look ahead of you, not at the ground, while you ski down the mountain. To avoid falling or running into someone in front of you, keep your focus centered down the hill toward your destination.
Along with keeping you in check, looking ahead is essential for your protection and safety.
Don’t Ride Alone
If this is your first trip on the slopes, stick with a companion or someone you can rely on. The thought of a skiing mishap isn’t pleasant, but it’s always in your best interest to have a friend or family member by your side in the event of an accident. While skiing, you’ll have someone to lean on if something goes awry.
Conclusion
To ensure your safety on the slopes, follow these skiing safety tips. Remember that both beginners and professionals need to practice their skiing skills regularly. Beginner skiers, in particular, require instruction to partake in the sport.
Find a competent, trustworthy, and experienced ski instructor. Ski resorts often employ experienced instructors who can help you improve your technique. Learn how to ski, and you’ll be a pro in no time. Regular training, on the other hand, will allow you to improve your skills.