Hit the Slopes - Gently
"The two main causes of injuries among snowboarders and skiers are falls and collisions," says Dr. Brad Yee. "The way to avoid injury is to do pre-season dry land training exercises. Snowboarders need to stabilize and strengthen their upper extremities, like their shoulders and arms," says Dr. Yee. "Skiers need to strengthen their lower extremities, specifically quads and hamstring muscles." Dr. Yee says that core strength for the spine is important for both sports. He suggests that skiers and snowboarders could include one or two lessons at the beginning of the season, just to get the cobwebs out of their technique, and to rid themselves of any bad habits. Often when the knees get tired, more force is exerted on the spine with each bump. Exercise and working to give the spine extra strength and flexibility will help resist the rigors of skiing. Even when people are on the slopes, stretching exercises are important.
