Number one British skier Chemmy Alcott is backing a campaign to get people fit before they hit the slopes this winter.
The Monarch brand ambassador for the airline’s new winter ski routes is supporting moves by Abta and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to educate consumers about how to prepare for holidays on the slopes.
The Get Fit for Ski initiative comes as Abta research out today reveals that a third of winter sports novices are risking serious injury by doing no physical preparation before their ski trips.
The study also shows that 39% of regular winter sports enthusiasts say they have injured themselves at least once.
Of those who had injured themselves, 59% suffered a significant injury such as a leg break or muscle tear, with 73% of injuries caused by a fall and 20% by colliding with someone else on the slope.
38% of respondents are also risking serious head injuries by not wearing a helmet.
The risk of injury on winter sports climbs steadily with age, with 70% of those aged 65-74 having suffered some form of injury.
The poll found that a third (31%) of those going on ski and snowboard holidays do not take out travel insurance that includes specific winter sports cover.
This, combined with people not physically preparing, suggests that a significant number of holidaymakers are putting themselves at risk of sky high medical bills should they have an accident or injury on the slopes, according to Abta.
Alcott said: “There is no beating around the bush – skiing is a dangerous sport. But there is lots that can be done to prevent injury as much as possible – first and foremost you can get in shape before you hit the slopes.“This will result in a double whammy positive – your body will be better prepared to handle the physical excursions of skiing and you will be able to ski longer for harder thus getting more value for money.”
Abta head of communications Victoria Bacon said: “Winter sports are becoming increasingly popular with an ever more diverse fan base. But like any activity that involves rigorous exercise you need to prepare yourself properly. By being physically prepared you can help ensure you remain injury and strain free and make the most of your time on the slopes.”
FCO spokeswoman Lynda St Cooke said: “We strongly advise anyone going on a winter sports holiday to ensure their travel insurance policy covers them for all winter sports activities.
“We see many cases where British nationals have ended up with massive debts at the end of their holiday because their policy didn’t cover them for what they were doing.
“It’s important to have an up to date EHIC card as well as comprehensive travel insurance and to read the small print, as most insurance policies will not cover you if, for example, you ski off-piste or have an accident under the influence of alcohol. Visit www.fco.gov.uk/travel for more information on travel insurance and preparing for a holiday abroad.”