Air Quality guidelines from US Ski and Snowboard
Many parts of the US and North America are experiencing poor air quality this summer. It's important to remember that poor air can affect some athletes differently. Individuals with underlying respiratory issues, such as asthma, are more at risk.
The major takeaway is when skiers are faced with polluted air, modifying both the intensity of sessions and the duration might be in order.
Things to remember:
- Traditional iPhone weather apps are not necessarily accurate with AQI readings and air quality can be very isolated with pockets of good and bad air. We recommend checking websites such as airnow.gov
- https://fire.airnow.gov
- Training inside can be a good option but only when air quality is actually better indoors. Avoid wide open windows and find spaces with air filtration systems if possible.
- Even if you do not directly feel the effects of poor air remember that there is an added strain on the body. Athletes should hydrate extra well when exposed to poor air to help flush pollutants from their system.
For more information check out the study: