Pole Walking

At this time of year, most 'pole' talk is about the North Pole. But while the weather may not be ideal for long walks outside in some areas of BC, die-hard pole walkers will still find a way to pursue their favourite hobby, cold, snowy weather or no cold snowy weather.

While pole walking might seem fairly passive to watch, considering it can use up to 90% of your body's muscles in the case of Nordic pole walking, a set of poles and a brisk walk can be a super fat burner without the impact and stress many other exercises place on your body.

Pole walking serves many different purposes, from simple exercise to providing better balance to seniors wanting to get out and enjoy a little activity.

But where do you begin? What type of poles should you buy? What type of pole walking should you do?

In the video below, LifeMark's Clarice Bower answers some of those questions and provides some simple information for people looking into joining the pole walking phenomenon sweeping the country!

When Laces Go Bad - Lace Bite!

It's a common occurrence for hockey players and figure skaters and it's called Lace Bite.

Some skaters like a snug fitting skate. So when they get to the rink and slide on the boot, naturally, they cinch up those laces as tightly as they can.

While the skate may feel nice and snug, the pain that will follow to the tendons in the front of your leg, beneath the tongue of your skates, can be excruciating.

In this video, Centric Health's Mallalea Orban explains lace bite and some of the ways to prevent it from happening.

Ski Safe!

TIPS FOR HITTING THE SLOPES

by Joe Melo, MPT - Registered Physiotherapist 

Hard to believe, but it’s already that time of year again here in Beautiful British Columbia! Snow will soon be falling on the local mountains, which means skiers and boarders are waxing their equipment and chomping at the bit to get in their first run of the season.

The Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia (PABC) has outlined four basic tips to help skiers and boarders minimize their risk of injury on the slopes.

1)    Develop strength in the off-season.

For most British Columbians who hit the mountains in the winter, this isn’t too big of a problem. But for those of us who lie dormant for most of the year until the snow starts to fall, thinking about incorporating a balanced exercise regime into the off-season would be wise. Even though winter has arrived, it’s not too late to begin a program that will address areas that could put you at risk of injury, both for this season and for future years.

2)    Warm up before hitting the slopes to prevent injury.

Sometimes, excitement gets the better of us. Freshly fallen powder can make us forget about the importance of a gradual warm-up before any physical activity. A light jog and a few key stretches are all it usually takes to prepare the body for a day on the hill. And if you take a break to have lunch, remember to limber up again before you head back out.

3)    Drink water.

Again, not the first thing that comes to mind when heading to the local mountain, but hydrating is vital while you exercise no matter what the thermometer reads. You’ll be thanking yourself later when your body’s not as sore and stiff the next day.

4)    Choose the right equipment.

Properly fitted boots, skis, and snowboards will ensure you can not only be safe on the slopes, but also perform to the best of your abilities. Make sure your attire is suitable, too. You’ll want to keep warm and dry enough without restricting too much movement. But the main piece of equipment skiers and boarders need to be using regularly is an appropriate helmet. Here’s why:

Sidney Crosby, Rick Nash, Anthony Calvillo: these are just a few of the names who have had recent struggles with concussions. Head injuries can be devastating to one’s career and day-to-day life. In some cases, they can be life-threatening. Recent statistics show that only 59% of adults between the ages of 25 and 34 wear a helmet on the slopes. Take safety seriously and keep your noggin protected this winter.