By Michaela Ryan

Designer snow gear, perfect technique and a super fit body ... A lot of people don't step foot near a ski slope because they don't have all — or any — of these things. But here are some ways for regular people to plan a snow holiday that's affordable and fun.

Cheap skis for cheapskates

For a one-off trip to the snow, it's best to hire your equipment and clothing. But if you plan to go more than once, consider secondhand gear. It's available at stores such as Ski and Board, or sources such as the Trading Post or ebay. You can often buy great gear for up to 60 or 70 percent of the original price.

If you prefer brand new gear, it's cheapest at the end of the year or during the beginning-of-season sales.

And whether you've bought new or secondhand gear, if it's still in good condition at the end of the season, you can sell it on and recoup a lot of your money.

To save on accommodation, don't stay right on the ski runs. It's cheaper to stay in a privately owned lodge away from the main drag. Plus, did you know that lift passes are cheaper mid-week?

Get comfy

To stay dry and comfortable, Monica Balon, part-owner of Ski and Board recommends a waterproof rating of 5,000 to 10,000 mm — especially for pants and gloves.

Underneath your ski pants and jacket, wear thermal layers to draw perspiration away. "Cotton is a big no-no," says Monica, "Cotton holds sweat... And when you sit on a chair lift for five minutes on a windy mountain you're going to get really cold."

Get your body ready

You don't need to be young and active to take up snow sports. But you should do some basic preparation six weeks prior to your trip, says physiotherapist Sue Gertzel, from Get Fit with Physios in Melbourne.

"People tend to go on a ski holiday for a week after being sedentary at work and not doing any exercise. Their muscles aren't trained to work in that skiing position," she says. You're less likely to get tired and sore, or take a tumble, if you do some prep work.

Aim for three exercise sessions a week, including some cardio, strength and flexibility. For cardio, walking up stairs, or hills, is great. Sue also suggests cycling, rollerblading and running.

At home you can prepare your muscles by doing any of the following exercises until your muscles feel tired:

• Squats with your feet shoulder-width apart (or wider for snowboarders)
• Step ups, alternating your lead leg
• Lunges
• Calf raises (stand on the edge of a step on the balls of your feet, drop heels then raise them up)
• Wall sits (with knees bent not quite at a right angle)
• Push ups
• For flexibility, stretch your quads (front of thigh), hamstrings (back of thigh), triceps (back of upper arm), hip flexors and groin.

Technique

If you're a beginner, it's vital to start your holiday with a ski or snowboard lesson — and not from a friend! You'll enjoy yourself so much more once you know the basics.

Ski safe

Have fun! Stay on runs within your capability, listen to your body, and if you get tired, take a break.

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