10 Skiing Tips For Experts

Even though you have been skiing for years, review these ten skiing tips for experts. If you hop on the slopes and head straight for the black diamond trails, then you are probably an expert skier. Going skiing is all about fun and adrenaline but the most important consideration is safety.

1. Shape Up. Skiing tips for experts from pro skiers usually include a call to stay in shape. If skiing is seasonal, then start getting in shape weeks before your trip.  Balance, endurance and stretching are all areas you will want to focus on. Being in shape will reduce injuries and make you more flexible to avoid an accident.
2. Have the Right Gear. This means doing maintenance and adjusting your skis before the first trip of the season. Gear also includes wearing layers of lightweight thermal and getting ski socks instead of wearing your gym socks. These skiing tips for experts and beginners alike will make you more comfortable.
3. Wear Helmet. Everyone knows you're an expert, right? Well, skiing tips for experts usually include a plea to wear a helmet. You’ve been skiing for years without a helmet but if you want to come home safely, then a helmet is recommended. Try on several and get a comfortable one that you will actually wear on the slopes. There is a reason competitive ski teams wear helmets.
4. Altitude Adjustment. Unless you live in a high altitude and a climate similar to your ski destination, your body will need to acclimate. Don’t plan to ski on the day you arrive. Take a walk. Take in the scenery you will be whizzing by and plan to start fresh the next morning. This is one of the often overlooked skiing tips for experts as everyone is anxious to get on the slopes.
5. Coming Around. If you are an experienced skier, you will certainly be on the runs with less skilled skiers and they can be a hazard. Anticipate what other skiers are doing and give them wide berth. You don’t want to be at the bottom of their heap.
6. Check the Conditions. Ski resorts have lots of information for the asking such as daily weather conditions. They can tell you about any runs that might be closed or that you should be cautious about. If you are going to a resort you haven’t been to before, then ask if they offer a tour.
7. Take it Easy. You are itching to get out there and get the blood pumping. But taking a few test runs will help you to know if your skis are adjusted properly, if you are warm enough or if you need to get a feel for the snow.
8. The Last Runs. The safest way to cool down and prevent injury at the end of the day is to do some easier trails as your last runs. Also, at this time of day you may not realize how worn out your body is. The U.S. Skiing Association says more injuries happen at the end of the day when skiers are tired.
9. It’s Closed for a Reason. When you are an advanced skier, it is oh so tempting to cross the closed trail line. Those boundaries are there to protect you. The problem is that it may look fine when you start but you might come across a completely ice slicked area or an avalanched pit. This is one of the skiing tips for experts that is most dangerous to ignore.
10. Hey Partner. You may be a maverick and a very good but the ultimate safety precaution is skiing with a partner. If you are missing on the trail alone, it might be some time before anyone knows you are not down the hill.