Cold weather and sport

A lot of participants do not wear a proper clothing for cold weather conditions. Due to this we are pointing out some important things to remember.

1. Always listen to the advice medical staff is giving you – if they tell not to go on the slopes again, do not overstep their advice.

2. Although international rules allow to organize sport events with temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celcius – trust your instinct about the weather – if you think this might be too cold for you, do not race this time.

3. Cold weather affects your fingers and toes most likely and body parts that are not covered.

4. Main symptoms that you have cold damage are numbness, your skin might feel thick and later on may become covered with blisters and turn dark.

5. When on the slopes, regularly check if you can feel and move all toes and fingers inside boots and gloves. When you do not feel them you must stop sporting and ask for help from medical staff.

6. Trying to warm up your fingers/toes and then going on the slopes again is a bad idea – once frozen you should stop the race.

7. Warming should be done carefully – do not place your frozen body parts into hot water, do not massage them (especially not with snow), do not hold them next to heat blower.

8. When you have any questions about your health on marathon day – consult with medical service – they will give you the best advice possible.

9. Clothing should be layered – the more the layers the better, if possible take extra clothing with you (especially gloves and socks). Ski costumes are not made for such cold conditions – consider using different clothes.

10. If possible take snacks and warm drink in a thermo bottle with you to the race, share it with mates if necessary.

11. All masks and buff’s are very good to protect your face, you should use special cold weather creams on your face and lips.

12. 112 is an emergency number you can call – please tell that you are on the marathon slopes then they will connect you to our medical team. Try to know always where you are – what service points have you passed or on what km you are – this helps to locate you on the slope.

13. Please do think if you have all necessary equipment for a cold temperature race – if not consider not to go to the race.