Whether you’re planning your first visit to Breckenridge Ski Resort or have been coming for so long you’re practically a local, the first day of your winter season is an awesome reminder of why we’re all drawn to the mountains to play. The wind in our faces, the sound of our skis and boards slicing through the snow, the thrilling speeds…and what’s that? Oh, hello thigh burn, you old friend!
Skiing and Snowboarding are exhilarating activities, but let’s be honest they’re also physically demanding. How do you make your vacation (or your weekend getaway) epic, day after day without getting so tired? We’ve put together some tips for skiers and snowboarders to physically prepare for their ski trip and get lots of quality time on Breck’s expansive terrain this season.
Train for the Slopes
It’s easy to forget when you’re having so much fun, but when you’re skiing and Snowboarding, you’re exercising. Focusing on improving your level of physical fitness about 8–10 weeks before your winter vacation is a great way to prepare yourself for multiple days of skiing and Snowboarding. Look for a ski/snowboard-specific workout that is focused on exercises to target your quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core. The more in shape you are before you arrive, the better prepared your body will be once you’re here.
Stay Hydrated
The base of Breckenridge Ski Resort is located at 9,600 feet (2,926 meters) above sea level. Up here, the air is drier, the sun is stronger, and there’s less oxygen, which increases your breath rate. Each of these conditions can cause you to become dehydrated much quicker than you would at lower elevations. A few days before you travel, start increasing your fluid intake, and once you’re here, aim to drink at least 12 cups (3 liters) of clear fluids each day. Don’t forget that both dehydration and symptoms of altitude sickness can be exacerbated by alcohol, so you might want to take it easy with adult beverages the first few days you’re here.
Listen to Your Body
If you’re visiting Breck for a prolonged vacation, consider taking a day off. Sure, you want to get as much time on the slopes as possible, but you also need to make sure you listen to your body, because skiing and snowboarding when you’re overly tired can be a cause for injury. Plan a day off to relax and enjoy some more fun, low-key activities, like Nordic skiing, going on a sleigh ride, or shopping downtown to see what Breckenridge has to offer.
Take a Lesson
Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, an effective stance can go a long way in making you feel less tired at the end of a full day. For example, if you’re skiing with your center of mass behind your feet, you’re working a lot harder than you need to be. Sign up for a lesson and work on developing an effective stance with your Pro. Choose from our variety of programs that best fits your needs and ability to get the best on-mountain experience possible.
Plan Your Ski Adventure
Get ready for a great ski season and the days you’ll spend exploring the expansive terrain at Breck. One of the top ski resorts in Colorado. Breckenridge provides an amazing resort experience in the Rockies. With great lodging, convenient lift access and 5 peaks to explore, there is something for everyone. Grab your lift ticket or Epic season pass and plan your ski vacation to Breckenridge today!