Make the most of a mountain massage

Sore legs? Achy back? Tired triceps? The combination of these three spells disaster for a ski day, especially if you’ve been skiing morning to last lift for a week straight. Not only do you run the risk of not being able to hit the mountain the next day, but you also increase your chances of injury by skiing with a body that’s not feeling top-notch. The solution? Skip the après scene for an afternoon and say hello to the massage table.

This is no tall tale, either. Recent studies have found that massage creates a heightened immune response, and Swedish massage, in particular, helped decrease levels of the nasty stress hormone cortisol. “This research indicates that massage doesn’t only feel good, it also may be good for you,” says Mark Rapaport, M.D., chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences.

• Four Seasons Vail. The Skier’s massage uses sports therapy to help increase range of motion and circulation.
• Keystone Lodge and Spa. The Marta Kodo aboriginal techniques help relieve tension and release blockages.
• The Arrabelle at Vail. Swap après drinks with Après-Sport Massage, which starts by applying muscle repair gel and continues into deep-tissue rubbing.
• One Ski Hill Place at Breckenridge. Try the Athletes Massage combination of massage and stretching.