How to cope with the cold

Many people are anxious about going to the snow due to being afraid of the cold. Snowboarding or skiing offers people an opportunity to be active and take in amazing scenery. However, if the cold affects you easily then you will not have an enjoyable experience at the snow. Following are some tips in how to cope with the cold

As you go higher, the temperature will become colder. The sun may be out however that can be deceptive. Additionally, the wind will become stronger as you ascend the mountain. The wind chill factor will lower temperatures even further. It is advisable to find out what the actual temperature will be high up in the mountains as it will impact on whether you want to take the lifts to the top of the mountain.

Dress appropriately and wear layers. Ensure that you wear suitable skiing or snowboarding attire for the purpose of keeping you warm. The appropriate clothing will keep your body warm by trapping air. Dressing in layers will also trap air and keep the body warm inside. Wearing layers will allow you to adjust to the changing temperature of your body. For example, you can take off layers if you feel too warm.

Keeping active by constantly moving on your snowboard or skis will generate more body heat than just staying stationary. The body can produce heat of up to six times more than just sitting. Prior to going out on the mountains, do warm up exercises and stretches. Whilst going up on a chairlift, wiggle your toes, and do some leg stretches to warm up your thighs.

Food can assist as a coping mechanism with the cold. Energy generated by fats and protein can boost the level of energy that you require for a day of snowboarding or skiing. Food that is high in carbohydrates and foods with sugar will also give you energy as well. It is advisable to keep away from smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol whilst at the snow. Smoking can restrict the circulation of blood by constricting the capillaries, and alcohol can give you the chills quickly even though it may temporarily make you warm at first by dilating your blood vessels.

If you have issues with keeping warm and are worried about the cold, follow the above steps and it will make your experience at the snow much more fun and enjoyable.