Stay Healthy Next Time You Ski!

One of the best parts of winter are the activities we can do in the snow, like skiing. Whether you’re new to the sport or are an avid skier, here are our tips to help protect your body and spine so you can have a healthy ski weekend.  

WARM UP  

Skiing is a sport enjoyed by many, but it’s important to remember that despite all the fun you’re having, you are putting a lot of stress on your body. To prevent injury, make sure you take the time to warm up just as you would with any other form of exercise. You don’t want to just gear up and go when you are about to move your body in ways it isn’t quite used to.  

• Warm up your body for 10-15 minutes
• Before putting on your boots, stretch your calves out by hanging your heel off the back of a step. Hold this for 45 seconds and do it twice on each side
• Once your boots are on, wait to put your skis on and stretch your hamstrings out first. Put your leg up on a picnic table or short fence and bend forward at your hips over your outstretched leg. Do this 2-3 times on each leg for 45-60 seconds
• Move your arms in big circles and stretch them out to get circulation going
• Do a few spinal twists and squats
• Once your skis are on, stroll around the grounds a few minutes to get your blood pumping
• Do a few warm up runs before hitting the black diamonds

SKI TIME  

When you’re having such a great time skiing, it can be easy to get lost in the moment. That’s not the best for your body, so keep these tips in mind when you’re on ski time.  

• Stay Hydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of water before you hit the slopes and consistently throughout the day. Make a goal to consume ½ your body weight in ounces.  
• Take breaks. It might be fun to be out all day, but it isn’t what is best for your body. Rest every ½ hour, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Take a real break every 2-3 hours and go inside, sit down, and rest for at least 10 minutes.  
• If you fall, which most people do at some point, take a moment to assess how you feel. Are you okay with taking a breather and continuing on, or should you call it a day? Listen to your body and take care of yourself. It’s the best way to prevent further injury.  

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

When you maintain a regular chiropractic care regimen, you can improve the stability, flexibility, and overall health of your spine. All of those factors help to make you a better skier, and you will be better able to ski for longer periods of time. When the inevitable injury does happen, your body will be able to recover faster and more efficiently so you can get back to doing what you love. If you’re heading out for a ski weekend this winter, be sure to schedule an adjustment with us. Just click here to make an appointment!