natives' health and fitness tips

Tip 1

Always warm up

Alcohol is not the skiers' friend

Ski fast, but ski in control

Do that 'one last run' tomorrow

feeling sick?

Is it a hangover? 

The clean air and water makes them rare in the Alps, but somehow they still crop up

Solution - Ease off the chalet wine (esp. the white) and steer clear of Mutzig

Altitude sickness?

Possible if staying above 2500m (ie the Rockies).   Trouble sleeping, headaches and nausea are the most likely symptoms.  The time difference doesn't help either.

Solution - Take it easy for the first few days and drink plenty of water

feeling tired?

Lack of fitness?

Why spend so much on a skiing holiday without spending the time getting fit enough to enjoy it?

Solution - Start training at least 6 weeks before you travel.  Concentrate on the legs and the back.  Try cycling to improve strength, stamina, anticipation and balance.

Lack of technique?

Skiing well taxes your body, but doesn't stress it.  Skiing badly can stretch and strain all the wrong parts.

Solution - Take a refresher at your local dry slope and at least one lesson on every trip.   You don't want to get stuck on that plateau for ever...