Each year, thousands of people look forward to the excitement of participating in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Although these are enjoyable activities, they also pose a risk of injury if the proper precautions are not taken. A fun-filled day on the slopes can quickly take a turn for the worse. Here are five suggestions for avoiding winter sports injuries.
Warm-up
Participating in a winter sport without first warming up your body is a sure-fire way to get hurt. Stiff muscles and tendons are a lot more susceptible to being injured. One of the easiest and most effective ways to warm up the body is to go on a brisk, 10-minute walk through the snow. After the warm-up session, perform a few basic stretches to keep your body prepared for intense physical activity.
Keep Water On Hand
Contrary to popular opinion, staying hydrated in cold environments is just as important as in hot climates. In many instances, fatigued muscles are a direct result of dehydration. Dehydration forces the heart to work harder to circulate the blood. To prevent the onset of dehydration, drink 12-16 ounces of fluid per hour before heading out to your event.
Wear the Required Protective Gear
Whether you are playing outdoor hockey or skiing with a group of friends, be sure to always wear the correct protective gear. Goggles, pads, and helmets are all critical safety equipment. Wearing sport-specific clothing will also help to prevent injury.
Know Your Physical Limitations
If you have been inactive for the past couple of months, do not expect your body to be properly prepared to handle the rigors of a winter sport. Before attempting to participate in a winter sport, give your body at least three weeks of physical training. This will help to strengthen your muscles and and improve your reaction time. If you don’t warm up, you will be much more prone to injury. If are injured, ice skating at New York’s Rockefeller Center, for example, look into physical therapy in NY or wherever you may be from. Don’t leave things to chance, and try to let your injury heal on its own
Adhere To The Rules
Most winter sports have specific rules that are implemented to enhance your personal safety. If you have been drinking alcohol, the risk of you being injured is four times greater. Beginners should not even consider attempting any advanced stunts or maneuvers.
Participating in a winter sport does not mean that you have to jeopardize your safety. By sticking to the rules and preparing your body, you should be able to remain injury-free.