Avoid Hypothermia and Injuries That Are Common With Winter Sports

Winter is a great time to get out and enjoy some of the best sports around. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and a host of other winter activities are great fun and they are also very demanding on the body! That’s why you need to learn how to avoid hypothermia and injuries that are common with winter sports.

Most cold related injuries can be prevented with a little planning on your part and of course wearing the proper gear and being prepared will all help you stay safe and avoid winter sports injuries.

You should never participate in winter sports on your own. There should always be at least two of you. That way you can keep an eye on each other and watch for signs of hypothermia.

You need to make sure you have adequate and proper clothing and your goggles or sunglasses should fit snuggly. You also need to ensure your skis, ski boots, board, or any other equipment fits you properly to avoid sprains and strains which are more common in cold temperatures because the muscles don’t warm up the same as they do in warmer months.

Remember even though it’s cold outside you are still exposed to UV rays and you could still get a sunburn so always use sunscreen. Even when its cloudy the rays get through and with the reflections on the white snow you can burn very quickly.

Always drink plenty of water during intense exercise and avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol feels like it’s warming you up but what it actually does is restrict the blood vessels making you more susceptible to hypothermia.

Never exercise to the point of exhaustion. Rest often to avoid getting too tired and suffering a fatigue related injury.

Your clothing should be lightweight and multiple layers. That way your body heat is trapped. You can then remove or add layers as you need them. Your clothing should also be waterproof. Make sure your boots are well insulated and that you carry spare gloves, socks, and hats. These items often get wet and they will not keep you warm when they are soaked.

It’s not only important to make sure your feet are dry and warm, you need to treat any medical problems like bunions before you take part in your winter sports so that they do not become a problem while your out enjoying yourself. If your feet become wet and you do not have any dry socks or footwear with you it is imperative that you head indoors. Frostbite can set in very quickly on the toes and without warming and drying the feet you run the risk of frostbite.

You should always be on the lookout for signs of hypothermia or frostbite. These include blue or grey toned facial skin, hard white and cold skin, numb patches of skin, swelling or blistering skin, and loss of coordination, trouble speaking, unable to control small muscle groups, uncontrollable shivering and a desire to sleep.

If you or your partner exhibit any of these symptoms you need to get indoors and seek medical attention immediately. Do not delay as your life could be in danger. Hypothermia once started does not take long to overtake the body.

Winter sports are a lot of fun. They are exhilarating and every changing and they are a great way to stay in shape. By learning how to avoid

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