Picture this: you’re standing on a remote mountaintop, crisp air filling your lungs as you prepare to carve your way through the untouched powder – this is the magic of helicopter skiing. However, before you get to this much-awaited moment, some preparation is essential to ensure you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
At Pure Powder, we understand that getting ready for your helicopter skiing trip may seem overwhelming, especially with so many factors to consider; allow us to simplify the process and get the ball rolling. Our dedicated team is well-equipped to take the stress out of your preparation, ensuring you’re ready to embrace every moment of the thrilling adventure ahead. Join us as we explore the essentials and help you hit the slopes like a pro!
How Do You Start Preparing For The Helicopter Skiing Trip Of A Lifetime?
Embarking on a helicopter skiing adventure is a second-to-none experience – it’s the kind of adventure that ignites a passion deep within your soul. Still, getting ready to enter the adrenaline-fuelled world of heli skiing can feel daunting initially – but we’re on hand to take care of everything on your behalf in the build-up to your exciting trip. After all, from considering your ski fitness to choosing the right gear, every detail matters. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Our goal is to ensure that you enjoy every aspect of your trip without getting bogged down by the nitty-gritty details.
That’s why we recommend thinking of your preparation as part of your journey. Getting your body ski-ready will not only enhance your overall performance, but the physical preparation will add to the excitement as your anticipation builds. What’s more, building your ski fitness is not just about physical strength; it’s about preparing yourself mentally for the exhilaration that awaits. With the right preparation, you can set off in confidence, knowing that you are prepared for the challenges of the backcountry.
Selecting your gear will also add to that excitement, and our team is here to guide you through every essential piece of equipment you’ll need. From the perfect ski boots to the importance of layering, we’ll ensure you’re kitted out with the best equipment so you can focus on the adventure ahead. With us at Pure Powder managing the details, experiencing the magical world of helicopter skiing has never been easier.
Getting Your Body Ready to Hit the Slopes
Getting your body primed for a helicopter skiing experience isn’t just beneficial – it’s essential for maximising your enjoyment on the slopes. To fully embrace the adventure and minimise the risk of injury, it’s recommended that you start working on your ski fitness at least 12 weeks before your departure date. Generally, working out three times a week will be sufficient, focusing on raising your heart rate to around 150 BPM for 60 minutes during each session. This will ensure that your core and leg muscles are strong enough to take on thrilling descents with confidence.
While there’s no substitute for actual skiing, our ski fitness programme – which was developed with expert input from Craig McLean at the Putney Chiropractic Centre – includes a variety of strength and stretching exercises to prepare your body for the backcountry. Plus, if pre-trip skiing isn’t an option for you, don’t despair! You can still maintain your fitness through activities like running, cycling, or swimming, which all help to prepare your body for the adventure ahead.
It’s important to note that our fitness programme is designed for those who already have a sufficient level of fitness. If you’re a regular skier or you’ve embarked on helicopter skiing trips in the past, then you’ll know what this preparation involves – and you’ll be halfway there already. However, if you’re unsure whether the exercises outlined in our programme are suitable for you, we recommend consulting with a fitness instructor or medical professional beforehand.
Keep in mind, there are plenty of additional resources available to you on our website, from ski fitness videos to Ski Fitness Essentials, Top Five Fitness Tips, and Five Tips From A First Timer for those who are new to the world of heliskiing. Should you have any more questions about fitness preparation ahead of your trip, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for further assistance and guidance.
Factors To Consider When Selecting The Right Heli skiing Gear
Embarking on a helicopter skiing adventure requires the right gear to ensure safety and enjoyment, and the first step is selecting appropriate ski equipment for your needs. For example, if you’re going helicopter skiing, thicker skis and adjustable poles are crucial for navigating the untouched terrain you’re set to encounter. If you’re ever unsure about where to find the best gear, our partners at Ellis Brigham and Surefoot provide expert guidance and quality gear to suit any conditions and terrain. Here are some additional factors to consider when selecting your gear:
Layering Is The Best Defence Against The Elements
Layering is your best strategy when it comes to temperature regulation and warmth. We suggest starting with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat at bay, adding an insulating layer for warmth, and finishing off with a waterproof outer layer to shield against the elements. This allows you to conveniently adjust your layers to stay comfortable throughout your trip.
You Should Try Your Best To Stand Out On The Slopes
Colour is a consideration that may be more important than you initially thought. Even if bright colours aren’t your thing, we suggest donning them anyway on the slopes, as they serve an important safety function when you’re carving your way through the snow. Wearing vibrant, noticeable colours ensures you can be easily spotted against the snowy landscape – especially in the event of an emergency.
Consider Renting Your Gear For Light Travelling
While it can be hard to pack light for a helicopter skiing trip, it’s important to keep in mind that many destinations allow you to rent ski gear upon arrival. Pure Powder recommends enquiring about this before you start shopping or packing, as it may allow you to rent certain gear and equipment once you get there. Doing this will allow you to travel light!
Don’t Forget To Check Our Recommended Packing List
Last, but certainly not least, it’s important to make sure you pack every essential you’ll need for your skiing adventure. Luckily, Pure Powder has our very own recommended packing list for you to look over, providing a comprehensive overview of everything you need for your trip. There are also plenty of additional resources on our website, including how to find the perfect boots.
Mentally Preparing Yourself For Your Helicopter Skiing Trip
While your physical fitness is essential for a successful heli skiing trip, mental preparation is equally important. After all, the thrill of navigating breathtaking snow-covered landscapes can seem daunting if you’re unsure what to expect.
By cultivating a positive mindset, you will be able to improve your focus, build confidence, and fully embrace your journey. Read on for some helpful tips to get into the right headspace before you hit the slopes with Pure Powder!
Start A List: While getting ready for heli skiing isn’t just about ticking items off a list, it’s still an important step to take. If you write down your packing essentials and logistics, you will find that you will feel better prepared and in control. Whether you’re working out or packing your ski gear, breaking down your prep into smaller, more manageable goals on a list will simplify it.
Visualise Your Success: Each day, you should take a moment to visualise yourself skiing effortlessly down the slopes. Your confidence and excitement will grow as you picture fresh powder beneath your skis – something to look forward to after the preparation.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions: If ever there is something you are unsure about, whether in the build-up to your trip or on the slopes, do not hesitate to ask questions. Reach out to us at Pure Powder, your guides, or experienced skiers with any questions, because understanding what to expect will make the experience all the more enjoyable and informative.
Stay Positive Ahead Of Your Trip: Surrounding yourself with positivity will make the preparations feel that much easier, and something as seemingly simple as sharing your excitement with friends or fellow skiers will serve as a reminder as to why you’re preparing for this adventure. You can even turn to online helicopter skiing communities to ask questions or share experiences with others.
Embrace a Flexible Mindset: It’s important to remember that not everything may go exactly as planned and there are certain factors we cannot control, from the weather conditions you encounter to the ski runs you explore. Embracing a flexible mindset ahead of time will allow you to adapt to the experience, enabling you to enjoy it no matter the circumstances you encounter along the journey.
About Pure Powder
At Pure Powder, we’ve been at the forefront of heli skiing and off-piste skiing for more than 40 years, remaining dedicated to crafting extraordinary adventures for our guests. In this article, we’ve outlined practical steps to help you prepare physically and mentally for your next skiing journey with us. At the end of the day, we want to ensure you’re equipped to make the most of every moment. And with our extensive expertise, we can match you with the perfect skiing experience tailored to your needs. After all, we’ve prioritised exceptional service and support since our inception in 1978, so trust us to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
