To properly address skiing as a fitness activity, we need to speak separately about standard downhill skiing and cross-country skiing, which are vastly different activities. Today we'll focus on downhill skiing -- the kind that involves mountain lodges, hot toddies and ski lifts. We'll save cross-country skiing (and the great overall workout it provides) for another time.

One of the two most important things for any skier to do is stretch properly. As I've said before, stretching is always best done when the muscles are warm, so don't just go out into the freezing cold and start grabbing for your toes.

Stretch before you hit the mountain, while you're warm, and definitely do a lot of it after your runs. Remember, warm muscles are pliable and less likely to be strained. Cold muscles are brittle and are more easily injured.

The other most important thing is to remember the following: Quit before you're tired. Almost 90 percent of all accidents happen on the last run of the day. The end of the day also means the worst lighting (harder to see the bumps and icy patches) and the bumpiest snow.

Couple this with tired muscles, overworked brains and low energy, and you're asking for trouble. So take a tip from stand-up comics and "leave them wanting more." There's always tomorrow.

You have the option of buying or renting equipment. It's a no-brainer: rent. If you're a beginner, you'll discover what works and doesn't, what you like and don't like, and you won't be stuck with an expensive purchase that you'll outgrow once your skills improve.