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Skiing is a sport that everyone
from advanced skiers to small children can enjoy. Skiing with your
family is an adventure that will create memories that your children will
cherish throughout their life.
There are two basic types of snow skiing: downhill (or alpine) and
cross-country skiing. Each of these sports is fun and can be very
challenging.
Downhill (Alpine, Snow) Skiing
is a sport where you ski
downhill on a mountain at a fast speed.
Cross
country skiing is where you go up and down a
variety of terrains.
Cross-country skiing may be more
difficult for children as they may tire quickly with this type of
intensive work-out.
What is
the technical difference?
From a technical point of view,
the difference between the two types of skiing is that in cross
country skiing only the toe of your boot is attached to your ski. In
downhill skiing, the entire boot is attached to the ski by your
binding.
Do I need lessons?
Downhill
skiing has more of a learning curve so it is a good idea to take lessons
before you start. However, with downhill skiing , the
learning curve never ends. Intermediate and advance skiers can
continue lessons as their abilities change.
For example, someone, although they may be
a good skier, may want specialized lessons before he or she
attempts speed skiing, jumps, or moguls. Moguls are large bumps that
have been created artificially to give skiers something fun to try to
ski over. Cross country skiing, because it
uses your natural movement, doesn't take as much effort to begin.
Skiing is
physical....
Any type of skiing
is a physical sport. It is very important to get into shape prior to
taking a ski trip. If your child isn't very active, get him/her
moving months prior to your trip. Hiking, soccer, football, basketball
or running are great options to get them in shape for ski season.
Skating, ice hockey, surfing and skateboarding can help with balance and
maneuverability.
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