Purposeful movement helps avoid injury during winter treks

Avoiding falls on the ice and snow involves some “mental preparation” in addition to some “purposeful movement,” said Michelle Miller, an exercise physiologist in the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. Here are some of her tips for crossing the snow-covered campus.

 “A big key is being aware of your surroundings,” Miller said. “We all need to learn to plan some of our movements.”

Choosing to walk directly in the snow, for example, might provide better traction than walking on an icy sidewalk.

Many people end up breaking bones — or worse — because they attempt to break their falls.

“I tell people, if you’re going to fall, you need to just let the body relax, be a snowflake and float lightly to the ground,” Miller said.

This could leave someone wet and embarrassed but possibly less injured, she said.
Practice “conscious” movement. Slow down, take shorter steps when necessary, make sure feet are planted and really focus on efficient body movements and the obstacles in the path.

“It’s not a time for sightseeing.”

She also suggested using walking sticks and looking for things to hold onto that are sturdy and can help rather than hinder, such as railings and banisters.