A fresh layer of powder isn't all that's necessary for a successful day out on the slopes.
Regardless of how great the conditions are a lack of physical preparation could make for a less than stellar time on the hill.
Like any sport, skiing and snowboarding requires a level of physical fitness said Alice Muirhead, a coach with the Prince George Ski Club and Nancy Greene Ski League program co-ordinator.
"You're much more likely to get hurt if you don't do anything active [before skiing]," she said.
Muirhead said in terms of overall fitness, a cardiovascular base is important, in addition to leg strength. "You also need a lot of balance and coordination," she said, adding just lifting weights or just running or just swimming is not enough to get that well-rounded approach.
But even those who have that fitness base should expect to be feeling it after their first couple runs.
"You're going to be tired and sore, no matter if you're in good shape or not because it's such a demanding activity," Muirhead explained.
A pre-ski warm-up, with dynamic stretches, will also help to reduce post-ski pain. "Anything where the body is continuously moving," Muirhead said. This could be jumping jacks and holding onto ski poles and swinging your legs.
And even though all you may want to do is sit down with a big cup of something warm, the coach also advises to take some time for stretching when you're finished for the day. "After skiing, do static stretches because the muscles get so tight," she said. Muirhead also recommends going for a 15 to 20-minute jog or hopping on a bike to help flush the lactic acid from one's system.
Despite how thoroughly you warm up or cool down, Muirhead said it's also important to know your own limitations. "Make sure you're really focused and then start to challenge yourself," she said.
Other recommendations include having the proper equipment to ensure you stay warm.
"A lot of recreational skiers often go out in a cotton t-shirt and jeans under rain pants," Muirhead said, adding fabrics such as fleece and merino wool will work better to keep the body warmer and prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
A good pair of goggles to see any approaching trees and having the proper fitting skis or snowboard and boots for your body and ski-style will also work to prevent injury.
