The benefits of skiing are many: a lean and flexible body and an improved cardiovascular system are some of the perks. However, skiing might also be risky if precautions are overlooked. This article will review the world's top skiing destinations, and will suggest a way of preventing injuries using knee braces for skiing.
Top skiing destinations in Europe
The Alps region is the mecca of snow sports. With hundreds of ski resorts spread between France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy, choosing one becomes a daunting task.
Saint Moritz
Perched in the slopes of the Swiss Alps, St Moritz is the choice of royalty and celebrities for very good reasons. Stunning scenery stretches down the lake-filled valley and up to the Italian border. Top-of-the-range resorts offer some of the best off-slope activities around, including ice-golf and marathon running. And of course, St Moritz boasts excellent snow reliability and 350 kilometres of well-kept pistes, accessible via recently upgraded fast chairs. Expert skiers are catered for at St Moritz, thanks to its red difficulty-classified runs.
Top skiing destinations in America
The states of Colorado and Utah offer unrivalled facilities amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains.
Despite the thousands of visitors who choose Aspen (Colorado) as their skiing destination, the slopes remain pleasantly uncrowded. Aspen's three mountains offer the world's longest super pipe, over 100 kilometres of backcountry trails, and a fair number of both double black diamond and softer, groomed runs.
The Deer Valley in Utah is home to the Stein Eriksen Lodge, a 5-star and 5-diamond ski resort. Powder snow, perfectly groomed runs, and frequent bluebird days are the staple here. Once the visitor is off the slopes, the resort offers superb accommodation, wine seminars, and a spa, just to name a few attractions.
Injury prevention
Preventing injuries when skiing is as much a matter of technique, as it is of using appropriate preventative gear.
Up to 40% of ski-related injuries affect the knee ligaments (anterior, medial, lateral and posterior). Wearing high quality boots might help in the prevention of injuries, but using knee braces for skiing is by far the most effective preventative method.
Knee braces for skiing provide support to unstable joints and are anatomically designed to adapt to the knees without hindering freedom of movement. Knee braces can provide up to 30% additional resistance to stress lesions. Therefore, wearing knee braces for skiing minimises the risk of tear and wear, while maximising skiers' performance on the slopes.
Those who suffer from repeated injuries of the ligaments might develop chronic instability in their knees. Although surgery is an option, the latest knee braces for skiing offer an alternative remedy. There are specific knee braces that provide support to those suffering from combined instability and from injuries to multiple ligaments. These pieces of high-tech equipment prevent forward movement, while being adjustable and comfortable, so that skiers can continue practising their favourite sport.
CTI knee braces are endorsed by medical experts and athletes alike. These state-of-the-art silicone-padded braces are made to order and need to be fitted by a professional. Once in place, they provide total protection and support, as well as unparalleled comfort.
