Don't let this spring-like weather get you out of your mountain mindset! Winter is far from over, so you better start prepping for the weekend on the slopes! Want to know how to prepare best for your ski day before hitting the snow? Everything from tuning your skis to packing, check it out below.
#1: Weather check and outfit selection
It's always a good idea to check the weather before getting to the mountain. You need to know what you're in for temperature-wise and weather-wise to know how many layers to wear and what equipment to bring. You don't want to forget those key pieces, like a balaclava in frigid temps and gear with GORE-TEX for snowy or wet weather. Hop on over to your favorite weather site for weather updates, or over to OnTheSnow for mountain reports.
#2: Tuning those skis
You can take your skis to a professional ski shop to get them fully tuned, but it's also possible to wax and tune your skis yourself if you want to save some $$$. All you need is a gummi stone, an iron, some wax (easily purchased at most ski shops) and a scraper. There are plenty of starter kits you can buy online too; check them out on Amazon.
To get started, you'll need a strong rubber band to hold the brakes down and a good surface to work on. I usually use some saw horses, but I've seen others use some chairs or book piles to elevate them on a table surface. First, take a peek at your edges and make sure there is no rust. If there is, use your trusty gummi stone to erase it. Then, set the iron temperature based on what your wax package recommends and begin dripping the wax over the base of your skis. All you do next is then smooth out all that dripped wax on the base - but make sure you keep the iron moving to not damage your skis with the hot temp. Afterwards, let the wax cool on your skis for at least an hour. Once they're cooled off for a while, you then scrape the wax off using a smooth, even motion from tip to tail. Then voila! ...freshly tuned skis for your next adventure.
#3: Gear check
Make sure you have everything you need before getting to the mountain. Now is the time to look through your boot bag and assure all your necessities for staying warm and safe are all accounted for. Better make sure you have: a helmet, goggles, face mask/balaclava, mittens/gloves, ski socks, ski pants, jacket, extra layers if needed, some hand warmers for cold days, chapstick to prevent cracked lips, mid-afternoon snacks and of course your boots and skis. For some added pointers on staying warm in those negative temps, check out this blog post. Or, need more info on packing specifically? ..check out this blog post.
#4: Power breakfast
Before hopping out the door for some turns, make sure you prep your body for that all-day workout. Select foods that are hearty and will give you energy for the day. Try a mix of carbs, some protein and a little bit of fat that will release energy throughout your day and hydrate with water or a sports drink. Foods with protein and omega-3 fatty acids will help fight inflammation and prevent the risk of muscle injuries as well. Some suggestions include: cereal with milk and fruit, toast with nut butter and fruit, eggs, oatmeal or overnight oats, avocado toast or a protein bar. If you want more info on food, remember my blog post on snacks here.
#5: Stretch it out!
Remember - skiing uses a variety of movements that are sporadic, sudden and can be potentially stressful for muscles and ligaments. Warming up your muscles will help to (hopefully!) prevent injury and soreness. Focus on stretches that will warm up your core, hamstrings, quadriceps, back, glutes, hip flexors and chest. For ideas, check out this blog post!
If you follow my recommendations above, you're bound to have a killer day on the mountain. And as my amazing mother has always said, it's about being safe, smart and having fun!
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