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Contact: Troy Hawks
NSAA Communications
(720) 963-4215
thawks@nsaa.org
The Time to Get in Slope Shape is now
LAKEWOOD, Colo.— November 15, 2005 —Snow has been falling across
America, and slopes are opening from East to West. Being prepared for skiing and
snowboarding—physically and mentally—can make the difference between a good season
and a great one. It’s time for those planning to join the millions who enjoy skiing
and boarding every season to start getting ready for a healthy and fun 2005/06.
Before you start sliding, here are a few tips to help you prepare for a great experience.
- Get In Shape: Don’t try to ski or board yourself into shape. You’ll enjoy the
sports more if you’re fit. Off-season training improves ability and decreases
incidence of injury. So start training now—try yoga or pilates to strengthen
the core, biking for cardiovascular exercise, squats for leg strength, or
plyometrics for conditioning.
- Think About Gear: Get your skis and boards tuned and ready. Make sure
boots and bindings are in good shape. If buying new clothes, look for
fabric that’s water and wind resistant and avoid cotton. Make sure you
have quality eyewear and clothes for changing conditions. (A good gear/clothing
guide for beginners is Ron LeMaster’s book “201 Things Every Skier Should Know”
by Velo Press.)
- Start Planning: Many resorts offer great lodging and skiing/riding deals
pre- and early-season. Check out the websites of your favorite ski areas to
purchase a season pass or look for discounted day rates. Also think about
signing up early for a lesson…or three. Surveys show that three lessons can
be more effective than one, and many resorts are offering deals on multi-lesson
packages. Progressive programs have also become common, especially for freestyle
and park learning.
Once on the slopes, keep these pointers in mind:
- Dress in Layers and be Prepared for Changing Weather: Layering allows you to
accommodate your body’s changing temperature. Try polypropylene underwear that
absorbs dampness and dries quickly. Layer with a waterproof or water-resistant
jacket—the latest soft shell technology is popular. Also, be prepared for
changing weather by carrying extra clothing.
- Stretch:Take a few minutes in your room or in the parking lot to stretch
out before the first lift ride.
- Wear sun protection: The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than
you think, even on cloudy days. Sunburned skiers and boarders are a common sight.
You might keep a small tube of sunscreen in your pocket—if not for you, for
less-prepared people in the lift line. (Check out www.gosunsmart.org.)
- Drink Water and Curb Alcohol Consumption:Altitude sickness is fairly
common at elevation. Drink plenty of water—more than you normally would—and
curb alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration. Caffeine can also
contribute to dehydration.
- Eat: You’ll exert a lot of energy skiing or boarding. Prepare by carrying
snacks with you or plan to stop during the day for lunch or snacks at an on-slope
restaurant. Easy-to carry and protein-filled nuts, Snickers bars, jerkey or energy
bars are always good choices.
- Know Your Limits: Ski and board where you feel comfortable. Study a trail map
or grooming report, and ask friends or resort staff questions about terrain.
If you’re tired, stop skiing. Accidents often happen on that “last run” when your
legs feel like Jell-O but you decide to keep going anyway.
- Know the Code: Learn and follow the “Your Responsibility Code”—the seven
safety rules of the slopes:
- Always Stay in Control;
- People Ahead of you have the right of way;
- Stop in a safe place for you and others;
- Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield;
- Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment;
- Observe signs and warnings, and keep off closed trails;
- Know how to use lifts safely.
- Smart Style: Use terrain parks properly by following these three messages:
- Look Before You Leap
- Respect Gets Respect
- Easy Style It
For more information on skiing and riding the park and pipe, check out www.freestyleterrain.org.
And for consumer info on the use of snowsports helmets go to www.lidsonkids.org. From NSAA, here’s to a safe season!
THE NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION, LOCATED IN LAKEWOOD, COLO., IS A TRADE ASSOCIATION FORMED IN 1962 FOR SKI AREA OWNERS AND OPERATORS NATIONWIDE.
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