Warning over ski injuries

Holidaymakers heading overseas for a ski break this winter have been urged to ensure they take all of the necessary steps to prevent injury.

Nearly four in ten skiers and snowboarders admitted to being physically unprepared for their sporting pursuits while on holiday last year, according to research by Halifax, prompting the bank to call for travellers to get fit before jetting off.

One in ten of those who were unfit at the start of their break experienced a serious injury, while most respondents revealed that they had felt physical strain after just three days.

"A few months of pre-holiday training can help you to cope with the strain of winter sports, as well as to build up your stamina," commented Paul Birkhead of Halifax.

"Those that don't manage to train thoroughly beforehand should recognise their limits and make sure that they take regular breaks to help their body recover."

The ski resorts predicted to be the most popular in the current ski season include high altitude facilities in Canada, the USA, Japan, Russia and Chile, according to American Express.

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