Managing the Moguls
by Steve Limbrunner, ATC
It’s that time of year when winter sports are in full swing! These activities can be exciting, but they also come with real challenges, especially when facing a double-black diamond run filled with moguls. Choosing the wrong line or failing to prepare for those conditions increases the risk of injury.
The same is true in the workplace. Hazards exist all around us, and knowing how to avoid them, or how to prepare when they can’t be avoided plays a critical role in staying safe.
Slow is Smooth
Who doesn’t enjoy the challenge of a mogul run? It’s fun, but it’s important to take time to review potential hazards, like ice or caution flags, and warm up before dropping in. Bringing that same mindset into the workplace matters. In hazardous environments, it’s important to scan your surroundings and choose the safest route available.
Making snap decisions, like charging straight down a ski hill, increases risk. You may have heard a Work Right Injury Prevention Specialist use the term, “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.” Moving with control reduces mistakes, keeps movement efficient, and helps maintain a safer pace overall. Taking extra time to first review potential hazards and then take our time to be precise and make smart decisions is the best way to stay safe.
Gear Changes the Terrain
Our environment is one source of risk, but our equipment can create its own challenges. Wearing bulky winter gear on the mountain can restrict movement and add weight, making quick adjustments and mobility more difficult. While these pieces of equipment help us stay warm and comfortable, it also changes how we move and react.
The same applies in the workplace. Tool belts, steel toe footwear, and other protective equipment can limit mobility and alter balance. That’s why it’s important to warm up and get comfortable moving in this gear before taking on more demanding tasks. Treating the start of a shift like a green run before a double black helps set the body up for safer, more controlled movement.
Progress With Purpose
For new winter sports athletes and employees entering the industrial setting, these principles are especially important. It may be tempting to take on a mogul run right away, but building experience gradually helps reduce unnecessary risk. Starting with simpler tasks before progressing to more demanding ones allows skills, confidence, and control to develop.
When the time comes to take on more challenging work, remember to slow down, review hazards, and move with intention. Preparation doesn’t remove risk entirely, but it greatly improves the ability to manage it safely.
Steve Limbrunner, ATC || Steve is a Certified Athletic Trainer in Chicago, IL and is Work Right’s chef-in-residence. He has more than 7 years of experience, and has worked with varying populations and settings such as high school, college, youth sports, and rehabilitation clinics. During downtime, you will find Steve playing golf, working out, and spending time with family and friends.
Be sure to check out our other blogs for further injury prevention education and tips for the industrial athlete from Work Right NW!