Preparing for Skiing with Maura O'Sullivan
Congratulations on completing your training programme. It will be worth the effort to enhance your skiing and prevent injuries occurring. Warming up is very important prior to tackling the slopes. I will be leading a daily warm up outside the today fm studio before ski school. I will also be available in the afternoon for treatment and advice. Check with the Topflight staff for further details.
For weeks 1-6 of Maura's programme click here
When on the slopes
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Make sure to get instruction if it is your first time on the slopes or if you have not been skiing in a while.
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Undertake an appropriate warm up and gentle stretching before hitting the slopes. There will be a daily group warm up and stretching session before ski school.
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Make sure you are comfortable with your skiing equipment and check your ski bindings each day. Ask your instructor if you have any worries.
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As with any sport, a higher risk of injury accompanies fatigue so try to get appropriate rest when not on the slopes.
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Make sure to stay well hydrated, especially after a late night out. Dehydration can decrease your judgement, co-ordination and reaction times.
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Do not undertake jumps unless your have prior experience. If you are undertaking jumps make sure to land with knees slightly bent and feet pointed straight ahead.
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Stick to slopes that best suit your level of experience - don't be a dare devil.
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Avoid wide snow-plough positions (the position using to brake).
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To prevent more serious knee injuries while skiing always aim to keep the arms forward, feet together and hands over skis.