Winter sports fans that are planning a ski vacation this winter should be asking themselves if they are fit enough to ski, as a recent travel survey has reported that almost a third of the people who take to the slopes for the first time are physically not up to the rigours of skiing.
The research has suggested that by not preparing themselves physically prior to hitting the ski slopes, first time adventure sports enthusiasts are risking a range of injuries on their initial ski outing.
The recent study conducted by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), a UK-based travel agents association, has reported that around 39 percent of the respondents who are regular winter sports enthusiasts, have injured themselves at least once on a ski slope.
ABTA is partnering with the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), a government agency that is responsible for the interests of UK citizens overseas, to produce a winter sports checklist that offers guidance to skiers, and a leaflet on ‘How to have a safe and healthy holiday in the snow’.
Victoria Bacon, the head of communications at ABTA, said, ‘Winter sports are becoming increasingly popular with an ever more diverse fan base. But like any activity that involves rigorous exercise you need to prepare yourself properly. By being physically prepared you can help ensure you remain injury and strain free and make the most of your time on the slopes.’
The research has also found that a third (or around 31 percent) of those embarking on skiing and snowboarding holidays do not take adequate travel insurance that is specifically for winter sports.
Chemmy Alcott, the British woman skier and brand ambassador for Monarch Airlines new ski routes, is also offering her support for the Get Fit for Ski campaign and said, ‘There is no beating around the bush – skiing is a dangerous sport. But there is lots that can be done to prevent injury as much as possible – first and foremost you can get in shape before you hit the slopes. This will result in a double whammy positive – your body will be better prepared to handle the physical excursions of skiing and you will be able to ski longer for harder thus getting more value for money!’
