The New Year is upon us, and while it is said that more than 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February, we have some resolutions that you’re going to want to stick with if you’re serious about stepping up your skiing game in 2020. From learning new skills, to spending more time on the slopes – these are resolutions you’ll actually want to commit to!
1. Improve your technique
Take a performance course to sharpen your technique, and finally take that class on skiing moguls, or try out powder skiing. There is always something new to learn and that’s what makes winter sports like skiing so much fun!
2. Log more time on the slopes
We get it, sometimes life gets in the way and aren’t always able to spend as much time as you would like out there in the snow. This year, commit to longer days on the slopes, or use that season pass so much that it’s falling apart from use!
3. Visit a bucket-list ski area
Have you always wanted to ski deep powder in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, or take a trip to Breckenridge or Whistler? Make 2020 the year that you make your ski dreams come true and book a trip to your bucket list ski destination.
4. Try something new
Whether it’s cross country skiing, heli-skiing, or maybe even swapping out your skis for a board, it’s fun to change things up every once in a while, and enjoy several aspects of what the winter season has to offer.
5. Keep your fitness consistent
Pre-condition your body before hitting the slopes. Your quads and core will thank you! Don’t forget to stretch before and after skiing, and remember to continue conditioning and working your muscles, even if you are skiing frequently throughout the season. This will help you recover from a brutal day more quickly, and prevent injury.
6. Improve your gear
Don’t let your gear become a limiting factor. At some point you’ll need to upgrade your gear. Get a coat, hat, and gloves that will keep you warm and dry all day long. No one likes to be up on the mountain in wet gear! Re-waterproof your outwear if needed, get a new pair of goggles if yours are scratched or fog up, and get boots that actually fit. You’ll enjoy the mountain more if you are equipped with quality gear.
7. Take better care of your gear
Whether you wax your own skis or take them to a ski shop, a good rule to follow is to get your skis waxed after each full day on the slopes. This will help your skis glide easily over snow, turn faster, and give you an all-around better performance. Also, make sure to maintain bindings and brakes, and check your skis for signs of wear and tear after each day on the mountain.
8. Educate yourself
This year, focus on learning something new every day. There are ample opportunities to learn in the world of skiing that aren’t necessarily related to ski technique. Take an avalanche course ( you can never be too careful), learn how to tune your own skis, or get certified in backcountry first aid.
9. Snag First Chair
Commit to waking up and getting out the door early on powder days and finally snag first chair on the lift. You can also sign up for a first tracks program, where you’ll get early access to the mountain before anyone else. You can make a reservation for early access at Colorado’s Aspen Mountain and Snowmass most days of the week. ( Many other resorts have early reservation programs as well, just ask!)
image courtesy of jacksonholewy.com
