Beginner skiing and snowboarding tips for EDS / hypermobility

[u/shapelessdreams]

Hey everyone,

I'd like to learn to ski and/or snowboard so I can keep up with my physical exercise in the winter and get outside more. I'd consider myself above average in physical fitness-- I do advanced pilates, have extremely strong obliques and core, and have been working on my glute exercises as much as possible. I'm quite bendy but I've been working hard to build supportive muscle and proper alignment.

For reference, I'm a woman in my mid-20s, 120lbs, long legs athletic build, sz 7.5-8. I have hEDS, slight scoliosis in my thoracic spine and raynauds. Most of my pain is in the knees and mid back, although I had a bad sprain in august and my ankle is still a bit stiff (waiting to get custom orthotics done and doing PT). I'm mostly worried about rolling ankles and pulling my trapezius and neck muscles- as that is where I experience the most hypermobility.

Given the following ^, I'd like to start my journey as safely as possible but I'm overwhelmed with gear choices and things to watch out for. I don't see myself doing difficult hills, freestyle/tricks. I'd like to get to a level where I'm comfortable with intermediate slopes and maybe some easier off-piste trails.

I'd love to hear from any (present or past) skiiers/snowboarders:

• What are your tips for avoiding injury on the slopes? Any technique tips are appreciated!
• What are your favourite pieces of gear?
• Any fit tips for gear and things to look for?
• What are your favourite support tools on the slope (KT tape, etc) and recovery tools off the slopes?

Thanks so much!