The wait is nearly over. We are now mid-way through May, the ground is cooling and winter is knocking on the door. If you’ve been lucky enough to score some northern hemisphere pow turns well played. If not, no doubt the world of social media has flooded your feed with a plethora of powder pics, enough to induce some serious snow FOMO. Not to worry the 2019 season is fast approaching. With the last two years producing stellar conditions, here’s hoping for 3 in a row. As the late autumn days close in and the mercury plummets, there is a buzz of excitement in the pre-season air. In fact Hotham has already experienced its first snowfalls for 2019. This just so happens to coincide with the first significant snowfalls that occurred last year (omen perhaps?).
Trends and superstitions aside opening weekend is just around the corner, so it’s officially time to pump up the volume and get stoked for winter. Here’s how you can prepare mind, body and soul for the thrills and spills of a Hotham Winter.
1. Wax 'em up!
Don’t be slow out of the blocks; make sure your gear is ready to slide from day 1. Skis and boards stored in a warm garage over summer will no doubt be in need of a little TLC. Wax those bases and check the edges and bindings. If you don’t have the know-how or tools at home, get your gear serviced at your local ski shop. Alternatively if you’re up on the hill drop it in to ‘Base and Edge’ tune shop. They’ve got you covered for all things ski and board maintenance
2. Get fit. Then get fitter.
Hopefully your pre-season training is well under way. If not it’s never to late and anything is better than nothing. Hamstrings, glutes, quads and calves unite, jump on your bike, hit the gym or do whatever you prefer to get active. You don’t have to train like an Olympian (although it helps) however everyone can improve their strength and conditioning with a guided stage based program. For more info and some great advice check out Physio Phebe’s ‘Must do Exercises’ here.
3. Watch your favourite ski or board edits.
The modern world is hectic and fast paced. Build the excitement and embrace some snow escapism by watching your favourite edits. Whether it be full- length features from your favourite media house or 30-second insta clips, escape to winter and get stoked for skiing!
4. Book your snow holiday.
Researching and planning your snow adventure is half the fun! Grab your crew, organise your mates and book your snow trip. Remember early and late season can be a great time to visit Hotham. It can feel like you have the slopes all to yourselves, and if the last 2 years are anything to go by, the snow conditions are often superb. If you’re new to the sport why not check out the ‘Brand New Day’ experience available on Saturday June 22. For all the lowdown and booking details check out hothamholidays.com.au.
5. Get social on Hotham socials.
To keep up do date with all the latest news up on the mountain be sure to hit up Hotham Alpine Resort on Facebook and Instagram. See all the latest deals, live conditions and catch every snowflake as it falls from now, until seasons end. Hotham’s vibrant social media is a great way to stay informed of the latest goings during the season. You can also checkout the constantly updating webcams on the resort website to see how your favourite runs are shaping up.
One thing’s for certain winter’s going to be a blast up here. Bring on the powder days and crisp bluebird mornings. There are many ways you can build your own winter inspiration. Over the coming weeks find your own way and when the ground turns white and the lifts open…make plans, jump in the car and head for Hotham!