downhill skiing http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for downhill skiing Copyright 2008 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:07:01 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/downhill+skiing The Awesome Heaven Of Skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-awesome-heaven-of-skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-awesome-heaven-of-skiing#comments Tue, 11 Jul 2006 12:27:11 +0000 downhill skiingdownhill skieropen sportcockeyedchairliftsskisexercise http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-awesome-heaven-of-skiing exercise and you are going to do it this time. You will have no more failed attempts to get yourself in shape. But you still must choose the form of exercise to do. You think to yourself that it would be nice to have a program that can be done inside or outside and year-round. Besides that, you would like a program that does not wear you out but will still work all muscles the in your body.

But wait! This sounds just like skiing! Not only that, there are also many types of skiing. You've seen it: folks riding a chairlift, hopping off, turning and gliding downhill. They're all bundled up in their ski outfits. Some crash and tumble one or more times before they reach the bottom. Their are raised and their face is blasted by a freezing wind.

The is the one that mostly comes to mind when someone mentions skiing. The most popular places we hear of where the world travelers and famous people ski are The Alps, Aspen, Telluride and others.

We all are excited that skiing has become a wide that many folks can enjoy all year and benefit from it physically too. It is a beautiful sport to keep your heart healthy.

These ski areas usually have that lift you to the top to descend down extreme and not too extreme slopes. Snow can either be actual or man-made. No need to worry about getting cold as you will get warm as your activity increases.

The sport is rather easy once you get used to it. However day one is no walk in the park. Do not be surprised if you tumble quite often. It would be wise to take ski lessons and do not be surprised if you find to be rather expensive. When estimating the cost of a ski trip, one must consider the price of lift tickets, costs for ski site trips, renting or buying the skis, and the ski clothing costs along with sunglasses. However you probably won't mind the cost once you experience the thrills and fun of skiing - all after you learn to ski of course.

Maybe you would prefer cross-country skiing. This is much more strenuous then with downhill skiing. You have no assistance outside of your own in this type of skiing. You cannot get uphill by a chairlift because there are none. However you probably will not tumble down mountains as steep as with downhill skiing. The cost is much lower compared to downhill skiing. You can obtain trail passes and rent the skis at much lower prices. More than likely you will not need any lessons and if you do they will not cost as much as downhill skiing lessons either.

A type of cross-country skiing that needs a different sort of skis is known as andquot;skate.andquot; While skis make this type of skiing much easier, you can also andquot;skateandquot; with traditional skates. You gain speed by doing the same actual movements as those of ice skating. The learning curve is not too steep however you must realize that it is tougher than with traditional cross-country skiing and much more physically challenging. You also need trails broader than with cross-country in order to really enjoy this type of skiing.

Then for those who like thrills, there is a type of skiing in which you can fly into the air from jump slopes prepared exactly for doing just that. Your endurance and flexibility will be tested on this one. This type of skiing will definitely put a pinch on your finances just as will alpine skiing. Alpine skiing is a type of skiing that allows much faster runs with fewer twisted courses.

Snowboarding is known by the skier having one wide ski without poles and it reminds us of surfing. There is also a type known as ski boarding which has skis used without poles that are shorter and broader. The ski boarder experiences some of the same thrills as with in-line roller skating or ice skating. It is much easer to pick up this type of skiing than the traditional types because of a ski board's maneuverability.

It is apparant that there is a type of skiing for everyone to enjoy. If you do not like to be in the cold then cross-country skiing is probably for you. If you like leaping into the air and hitting the slope with great impact and speed then ski jumping is probably for you. But be smart about it: invest in some lessons. Yvonne Volante, the author, is a big fan of skiing and writes for atskiing.com, which is the premier skiing resource on the internet. You can see all of the articles over at http://www.atskiing.com ]]> Learn To Downhill Ski-Improve Your Downhill Skiing Ability Now http://www.artwoo.com/article/learn-to-downhill-ski-improve-your-downhill-skiing-ability-now http://www.artwoo.com/article/learn-to-downhill-ski-improve-your-downhill-skiing-ability-now#comments Sat, 08 Mar 2008 19:30:00 +0000 upper leg muscleswolf creek ski areawolf creek skiloveland skiupper echelonsport around the worldski beech http://www.artwoo.com/article/learn-to-downhill-ski-improve-your-downhill-skiing-ability-now sport around the world today, and there is certainly more than enough how to instruction to help you improve your ability.

Quite simply skiing, along with other popular outdoor sports such as golf and fishing, can be incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating, because you can ski in some incredible scenery. In fact, often times the skiing itself actually takes second place to the natural beauty surrounding you. Also, skiing is a great way to stay fit and have fun at the same time.

Regardless of how athletic you think you might be, by just following a few simple tips, you can dramatically increase your skiing ability very quickly. Whether you plan on skiing at world re-known resorts such as the Area, Breckenridge Ski Resort, , , or simply a hill in your backyard, here is some important information to help you do so as rapidly as possible.

First of all, you definitely need to learn some important lessons in order to improve your skiing ability and take yourself to that next level. These are things that only the top skiers employ, and if you utilize these tips, you will probably find yourself in the of skiers.

Obviously, first of all one of the things you need to be an effective skier, before you ever hit the slopes, is to be in good physical condition. In particular, your skiing specific muscles need to be in good shape so that you can have plenty of endurance.

This would be your , and good exercises for this would be jogging and bicycling. Try to focus on these workouts so that you will have good stamina when it comes time to hit the slopes.

Once you are actually ready to begin skiing, make sure you take some lessons beforehand so that you don't have to learn everything by simply trial and error. By learning from a more experienced skier, you can rapidly improve your abilities without having to make all the mistakes yourself.

By investing in just a few lessons at the outset will dramatically improve your skiing ability. Once you know the proper technique, now it's simply time to let your instinct take over. Without a good foundation and technique, however, it will be extremely hard to master the sport.

Like a house, if you try to build on a shaky foundation, it simply won't work. Regardless of how athletic or un-athletic you might be, without knowing the essentials, you simply won't be as effective as you possibly could be.

The bottom line is, just about every ski resort offers these lessons, and you would certainly be wise to take them at the outset. Yes, it might be a little bit of an investment, but if you plan on taking skiing seriously, the money will be well worth it. Hopefully this information will help you learn to downhill ski quickly and improve your ability as fast as possible. For a review on top ski resorts such as Big Bear Ski Resort, check out http://onlineskiinginfo.com. Also read about Big Sky Ski Resort and many more famous resorts around the country to help you find the best. ]]> Cross Country Skiing 101 http://www.artwoo.com/article/cross-country-skiing-101 http://www.artwoo.com/article/cross-country-skiing-101#comments Mon, 11 Sep 2006 00:27:12 +0000 cross country skiingcross country skiersdownhill skiingcalories per houraerobic exerciseweatheralpine skis http://www.artwoo.com/article/cross-country-skiing-101 cross country skiing may burn between 400 and 1400 . In fact, since cross-country skiing involves a simultaneous use of the arms and legs, many exercise physiologists consider it to be the best form of . The main difference between cross country Skiing and alpine or is that cross country skiing, the skier is attached to the ski only with the toe of the boot.. In alpine skiing, the entire boot is attached to the ski. The free heel allows cross-country skiers to climb uphill which is not very comfortable in .

Cross-country skiing dates back to Scandinavia 4000-4500 years ago, when it was used as a method of transportation. Today, the sport is divided into two disciplines: classic skiing which uses a straight-ahead gliding motion, and ski skating which makes use of glide and edge movements similar to ice skating or roller blading.

Cross-country skiing is part of the Nordic family of sports, which include a number of exciting ways to play in the snow. Biathlon is a combination of cross-country skiing and rifle marksmanship. Nordic combined combines scoring of jumping and cross-country skiing events. Ski orienteering involves a marker search on skis with the help of a compass and map.

Compared to downhill skiing, the gear used for cross-country skiing is some of the most affordable outdoor sports equipment available. You will need the following types of equipment for cross-country skiing:

- Skis with bindings attached, - Poles and boots. - Clothing suitable for cold- aerobic activity

Some people choose to go cross-country skiing on packed trails, while others like to ski anywhere there is snow. There is a distinct difference between skiing on packed trails and skiing andquot;off-trackandquot;. On packed surfaces your skis will have greater gliding ability and with classic tracks, you will have two grooved channels that your skis can follow. Off-track ski conditions are dependent on the weather and any previous skiers that have been in the area. However, off-track skiing can feature obstacles such as fallen trees, swollen rivers and inconsistent snow quality. This is usually not an issue in commercial cross-country ski areas, who conduct extensive trail work throughout the summer months. Raquel S. Hunter is a writer for MamasHealth.com. MamasHealth.com provides simple, easy to understand information about health. http://www.mamashealth.com ]]> Alpine Skiing: A Sport for the Bold http://www.artwoo.com/article/alpine-skiing-a-sport-for-the-bold http://www.artwoo.com/article/alpine-skiing-a-sport-for-the-bold#comments Fri, 26 Sep 2008 07:08:37 +0000 dangerous slopesalpine skiingheartbreak hillskiing resortsboston marathonmountain skiingjames bond movies http://www.artwoo.com/article/alpine-skiing-a-sport-for-the-bold James Bond movies, where we see our secret-agent hero zigzagging down the world's most as evil spies take shots at him from above.

is pure adrenaline, in contrast to the long-haul shuffling of the sport from which it developed, cross-country skiing. Alpine skiing is, historically, a version of cross-country skiing in which the plateau experience--those miles and miles of plain, mostly flat crossing--are edited out, and the extremes--the long, dangerous downhills--are left in. It became possible only when major mountain began to add ski lifts, which allow skiers to be towed back to the top of long downhills which would be near-impossible (and even dangerous) to climb more than once. (After all, even if you're in good enough shape to climb a high mountain on your skis more than once a day, the resulting fatigue and exhaustion will render you unable to exert the control necessary on the downhill. Injury, even death, may result.) The resulting sport was pure thrill: like having the reduced to the drama and pathos of , or a Tour de France that consists only of those ninety-mile-an-hour downhill bursts.

But that doesn't mean downhill skiing isn't a hard sport--after all, it isn't just gravity doing all the work. The skier must remain in control of both the speed and direction of the descent at all times--otherwise the speed that makes the sport so much fun becomes frightening and potentially lethal. And you need quality equipment to keep you safe on the descent; for beginners, the best bet is probably to rent skis and other necessities from the resort where you're taking your trip. (You can always buy your own later.) All of this may make downhill skiing intimidating for newcomers, but most resorts have staff on hand to help you learn the ropes. (To plan your ski trip, your auto-insurance company may offer advice, and travel magazines and websites should come in handy as well.)

Before you go, here's a preview of some essential lessons you'll be learning. The most basic skill to learn in downhill skiing is the control of the speed and angle of your descent and the most basic method of control is the snowplow: pointing the tips of your skis inward so that the tails are outward. Your skis should form a V with the inside point in front of you. Doing this reduces speed, and allows you to keep from reaching a dangerous level of momentum. But you need to practice this stance before you get going on a steep downhill; it can take some learning to be able to snowplow without stumbling over your own inturned feet.

Knowing how to turn can also save your life. After all, you don't want to crash into a rock! To turn left, assume the snowplow position, but with the angle reduced: your skis should not form a dramatic V shape but should be subtly inclined toward each other. Now shift your weight onto your righthand ski to move to the left; do the same with your lefthand ski in order to move to the right. The degree to which you shift your weight determines how sharply you turn.

Most resorts will have multiple "runs" (downhills graded according to, well, their grade: the steepness of descent) for beginners, intermediate skiers, and experts. Resorts in the West often have many runs in each category, while Midwestern resorts in places likes Illinois and rural Minnesota (states that offer some of the most consistent snowy weather in the country) will often have fewer runs. But expert skiers point out that sometimes it's better to spend your first ski trip practicing over and over on the same beginner and intermediate runs; your muscles will learn the required movements better, your coordination will develop, and on your next ski trip, you'll be readier to face the challenges of intermediate and eventually expert runs. After all, skiing, like piano playing or ice skating, depends on having the basics absolutely down cold--if you'll excuse a pun.CigarFox provides you the opportunity to build your own sampler of the finest cigars that include cigar brands like Montecristo, Romeo and Julieta, H Upmann, Macanudo, Cohiba, Partagas, Gurkha and many more. Choose from more than 1200 different cigars! Other cigar products include cigar humidors, cigar boxes, and cigar accessories like Zippo Lighters.]]> Ski Holidays - The Different Types Of Ski Activities http://www.artwoo.com/article/ski-holidays-the-different-types-of-ski-activities http://www.artwoo.com/article/ski-holidays-the-different-types-of-ski-activities#comments Fri, 18 Jan 2008 20:24:59 +0000 cross country skierscross country skisskier crossadvanced skiersski jumperaerial tricksski holidays http://www.artwoo.com/article/ski-holidays-the-different-types-of-ski-activities Ski Holidays. Traditionally skiing had been restricted to the wealthy but there are an increasing number of young people that can now afford to have a skiing break. Ski holidays are attracting a new audience. When I started skiing I was daunted by the variety of types of different ski activities and was afraid to ask. Here is a brief introduction to the different types of skiing that are out there.

Skiing is not just about hammering down the slopes in the fastest time possible. Alpine freestyle focuses on finesse and performing tricks on the slopes. It has been referred to as acrobatics on skis. Skiers use jumps and rails to perform that are similar to those performed in urban areas on skateboards.

Cross country or Nordic Skiing is a type of skiing that is performed worldwide. It is probably the most prevalent form of skiing as it does not require a special ski area, it can therefore be performed anywhere that has snow. are long and thin to help distribute the weight of the skier. often use their ski poles to propel themselves along as well pushing the skis sideways in a technique similar to ice skating.

People off on their ski holidays may be presented with the opportunity to attempt ski jumping. Ski jumping or Nordic jumping is a competitive sport that involves the skier travelling down a specially constructed ski ramp and off a jump at the end in an attempt to achieve a further distance than the competitors. The uses specially designed skis that are wider and longer than normal skis.

Off-Piste or Randonee skiing is when a skier leaves the marked runs or Pistes in search of freshly dropped snow. It is an activity that is done by . This is because the skier is never fully aware of the types of terrain they will face and have to be competent enough to deal with an enormous variety of situations. The skier may travel to areas that are prone to avalanches and as a result the practice is banned at many US ski resorts. It is legal everywhere but ski resorts will offer advice on where to avoid. It is strongly recommended that you adhere to this advice.

Telemark skiing utilises flexible ski boots that do are not attached to the skis at the heel. Named after the Telemark region of Norway and dates back to 1868 when the father of modern skiing Sandre Norheim used this type of binding when he competed in a ski jump competition. Since then alpine ski fittings have gradually replaced the telemark system as the telemark skis are better suited to rolling terrain than the steeper downhill runs. Telemark skiing is physically more demanding than Alpine skiing.

As well as being a recreational activity for civilians, skiing is also utilised as a training activity for the military. Warfare has also taken place on skis and ski troops have played a key role in military activity. Records were made of ski warfare as early as the thirteenth century. More recently ski troops helped Finland remain independent from Russia during the Winter War. They also helped repel the German forces during the Lapland War. Shaun Parker has been an avid skier for many years. He shares his knowledge to help advise people off on their ski holidays. To find out more please visit http://www.alpineelements.co.uk ]]> 3 Simple Things You Need To Know About Skiing. http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing#comments Wed, 02 Aug 2006 00:27:47 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing If you've ever started something new for the first time you know itn can be a frightening experience. This is especially true in trying something that has the risk of injury involved. The information here should ease your anxieties about getting started if you are just beginning skiing.

There are three things that you should know before you start skiing. You should know about equipment, ski slopes, and some basic instruction. First of all you need some equipment. You might have a question of whether you should rent or buy. If your just getting started it is best to rent as you don't know how much you'll enjoy skiing. It is also important to rent because there are many different styles of skis and boots that you may want to try before you settle in on something to buy. Your equipment should be comfortable and suit your skill level. If you're a beginner let the salespeople know that so they can choose the right equipment for you. Make sure you get ski goggles. If you will be taking children with you skiing make sure they have helmets. Skis, helmets, boots and goggles should all be available at the ski resorts rental shop.

Clothing is another option that you want to consider when going skiing. Since you go to be outside it's going to be cold. It's recommended that you dress in layers with the lowest layer having a fabric that will draw moisture away from your body. This will keep you warm and dry. You'll have much more fun if your teeth are not chattering.

Next, figure out when and where you plan to ski. You should be able to find resorts and slopes in your area or you may decide to take a vacation skiing somewhere else. If you're taking a skiing vacation make sure that you understand how pricing works at a resort. The fees for skiing will include equipment rental, ski lift fees, and facility fees. You may want to avoid the weekends as weekends are always the the most expensive. Some skiing resorts provide group pricing. Review the rates carefully when choosing a place to ski.

There are a variety of ways that you can learn to ski. You can learn yourself, from a friend, or you can take a class from a professional ski instructor. If you plan to teach yourself be careful because this can be dangerous. The best option is to learn from a ski instructor he can as they know all about the slopes, skiing techniques, and safety procedures. Also, ski instructors have experience teaching others. This is something your friend might not have. Ski instructors charge of variety of different rates so make sure that you find that upfront about their prices.

It can be scary when you first learn to ski but if you have the right equipment, a great place to ski, and a professional instructor you can have a great skiing experience. Robert Michael is a writer for D Skiing which is an excellent place to find skiing links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.dskiing.com ]]> 3 Simple Things You Need To Know About Skiing. http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing#comments Fri, 24 Aug 2007 10:35:01 +0000 skiing resortsski gogglesski slopesitnskishelmetsgetting started http://www.artwoo.com/article/3-simple-things-you-need-to-know-about-skiing itn can be a frightening experience. This is especially true in trying something that has the risk of injury involved. The information here should ease your anxieties about if you are just beginning skiing.

There are three things that you should know before you start skiing. You should know about equipment, , and some basic instruction. First of all you need some equipment. You might have a question of whether you should rent or buy. If your just getting started it is best to rent as you don't know how much you'll enjoy skiing. It is also important to rent because there are many different styles of and boots that you may want to try before you settle in on something to buy. Your equipment should be comfortable and suit your skill level. If you're a beginner let the salespeople know that so they can choose the right equipment for you. Make sure you get . If you will be taking children with you skiing make sure they have . Skis, helmets, boots and goggles should all be available at the ski resorts rental shop.

Clothing is another option that you want to consider when going skiing. Since you go to be outside it's going to be cold. It's recommended that you dress in layers with the lowest layer having a fabric that will draw moisture away from your body. This will keep you warm and dry. You'll have much more fun if your teeth are not chattering.

Next, figure out when and where you plan to ski. You should be able to find resorts and slopes in your area or you may decide to take a vacation skiing somewhere else. If you're taking a skiing vacation make sure that you understand how pricing works at a resort. The fees for skiing will include equipment rental, ski lift fees, and facility fees. You may want to avoid the weekends as weekends are always the the most expensive. Some provide group pricing. Review the rates carefully when choosing a place to ski.

There are a variety of ways that you can learn to ski. You can learn yourself, from a friend, or you can take a class from a professional ski instructor. If you plan to teach yourself be careful because this can be dangerous. The best option is to learn from a ski instructor he can as they know all about the slopes, skiing techniques, and safety procedures. Also, ski instructors have experience teaching others. This is something your friend might not have. Ski instructors charge of variety of different rates so make sure that you find that upfront about their prices.

It can be scary when you first learn to ski but if you have the right equipment, a great place to ski, and a professional instructor you can have a great skiing experience. Robert Michael is a writer for D Skiing which is an excellent place to find skiing links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.dskiing.com ]]> Cheap Holidays To Andorra For A Ski Vacation http://www.artwoo.com/article/cheap-holidays-to-andorra-for-a-ski-vacation http://www.artwoo.com/article/cheap-holidays-to-andorra-for-a-ski-vacation#comments Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:15:02 +0000 shopping in andorraexpert skiersskiing resortsvallnordgrandvaliracheap holidayscable cars http://www.artwoo.com/article/cheap-holidays-to-andorra-for-a-ski-vacation Grandvalira and are excellent areas to enjoy a day on the slopes. There are some great in Andorra and they make your stay very comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you stay at a hotel or a resort, you are going to have fun. The skiing season starts in December and goes until April. Where else could you spend a cheap holiday and ski every day, any day. The two skiing resort areas are equipped with chair lifts, gondolas and .

As you can imagine, the time is always right to ski the slopes of Andorra. Between the two resorts, you will find over twelve hundred slopes to ski downhill. They have slopes for beginners, intermediates, advanced and . Located in the Pyrenees, the resorts have colder temperatures with many sunny days to enjoy. Your to Andorra might include transportation, accommodations, airfare and sometimes tickets or passes to many other events in the area. With over two hundred inches of snow a year, you will find plenty to do on the slopes and the nights can be for enjoying a fire or some local entertainment.

Cheap holidays to Andorra are not only for skiing, there are the spas and the shopping malls for some excitement. The nights are nice for relaxing. The restaurants and the dance clubs are always a nice way to relax and unwind from the thrill of the slopes and rush it provided. You will find that most of the people that go to the ski resorts are out for the night to enjoy new friends and share stories about the day on the slopes. You will find dancing, live entertainment and nice quite little pubs for a beer and a shot.

The is especially nice, since the area is duty free. You can plan a shopping trip instead of a day skiing and fine some great buys. The stores are easy to access and are nestled in the low plains of the mountains. Even if the rest of the family wants to ski, you might enjoy some snowboarding or taking a short hike around the area. You can do so much more than just ski on your cheap holidays to Andorra. A fascinating way to relax for a day is to sit and glaze at the snow covered mountaintops.

One can only appreciate the Pyrenees Mountains by being surrounded by them. The hotels and resorts offer many exciting ways to entertain yourself if you need a break from the slopes. The swimming pools, spa, Jacuzzis and fitness centers are just as nice and relaxing. You are going to find the restaurants are unique and the nightlife is amazing. You will have an enjoyable time in Andorra for a ski vacation. You will have the time of your life while relaxing and meeting new people who share the same interests as you do such as dining, skiing or just relaxing around the hotel. Andorra is a wonderful place to spend a family vacation. Please visit our cheap holiday deals comparison website at http://www.cheapholidayspider.co.uk . Also take a look at our nordic site called charterrejser at http://www.pythia.dk ]]> How A Goat And The Testicles Of A God Have Influenced Skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-a-goat-and-the-testicles-of-a-god-have-influenced-skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-a-goat-and-the-testicles-of-a-god-have-influenced-skiing#comments Sun, 20 Jan 2008 01:35:02 +0000 prose eddasnorri sturlusonancient mythologygod of windski holidayswind and seasnow shoe http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-a-goat-and-the-testicles-of-a-god-have-influenced-skiing ski holidays. Although skiing has only recently become an extremely popular pastime it is rooted in .

Ski Holidays were first mentioned in a book of Norse Mythology. The is a collection of Icelandic poems that was written by in 1220. The collection includes many stories from Norse Mythology. The anthology is separated into two parts. The second section is called the Skaldskaparmal and it includes the story of Skadi the goddess.

The giantess Skadi was the daughter of the giant Thjazi and the wife of Nord. The story follows that Thjazi was killed by the gods after he kidnapped Idunn who was the custodian of apples that preserved youthfulness. Horrified, Skadi takes up her armour and weapons and travels to Asgard, the place where the Gods lived, to avenge his death. The Gods are remorseful and offer Skadi the opportunity to choose a husband from amongst them as compensation for her loss. She is only able to see their feet whilst she makes her decision. She selects a pair of feet that she finds particularly beautiful and they belong to the and sea Njord.

The second part of the compensation settlement was that the Gods were to make Skadi laugh. This was considered seemingly impossible. The God charged with this task making her laugh was Loki. In an attempt to make her laugh he takes a cord and ties one end of the cord around his testicles. He then ties the other end of the chord to a goat's beard. He then proceeded to tug against the goat. As the two squealed Skadi could not control her laughter and the God's achieved atonement.

Problems arose when the newlyweds tried to set up their first home. Njord wanted to live near the sea but Skadi could not stand the sound of the seagulls. Skadi on the other hand wanted to live in the mountains however Njord could not stand the sound of the wolves. Eventually the couple were forced to separate. Skadi returned to her mountain home and spends her time travelling across the mountain snow on skis and hunting with her bow and arrow. This is why she is known as the snowshoe goddess and can be seen as the grandmother of skiing.

If Skadi is the grandmother of skiing then the father of modern skiing is Sondre Norheim. Norheim is from the small Nowegian town of Morghedal known as the cradle of skiing. He pioneered the improvement of ski fittings and his friends were the first to run ski schools that taught people how to ski. He was an enthusiastic downhill skier and made the improvements to the ski bindings so that he could turn easier on the slopes. This has improved the pace at which skiers can complete a slope and has contributed to the increase in people embarking on ski holidays. Shaun Parker has been an avid skier for many years. He shares his knowledge to help advise people off on their ski holidays. To find out more please visit http://www.alpineelements.co.uk ]]> Waterski Primer http://www.artwoo.com/article/waterski-primer http://www.artwoo.com/article/waterski-primer#comments Sun, 06 May 2007 01:14:55 +0000 slalom skiswater skiingwater skistrick skissnow skislastlyslither http://www.artwoo.com/article/waterski-primer Water skiing is great fun and a good exercise. It was long back in the year 1928 when an eighteen year old boy named Ralph Samuelson invented water skiing. Ralph Samuelson of Minnesota projected the thought that if you could ski on snow, then you can also ski on water. As for appropriate water skiing apparatus, for his first skis Ralph attempted barrel staves, then , and Ralph shaped the first devoted from lumber. Ralph made his bindings from leather strips and used a long window sash as a ski rope.

Water skiing is really a great fun =96 at times it seems just like you are flying and it is really a soothing experience. As you across the water at top speed, cool water splatters over and around you. It is an amusing and thrilling sport that people of all ages can take part in. All you need to be good at water skiing is a little practice and whole lot of confidence in your self. Oh, and a boat.

There are number of water skis that are available in the market. You will need to seek advice regarding the appropriate choice for you. The most common water ski used is the combination water ski. This has a wider tip, and are the best products available for beginners as well as experts. Another ski available for water skiing is the . The skiers who want to go for busting, spinning and jumping during water skiing use these skis. These skis are shorter and wider than other types of water skis, and need much more expertise. There are no fins on the base of trick skis, so it is easier to glide and revolve, but more difficult to make controlled moves while water skiing.

Another option available for those going for water skiing is the . People who want to make sharp turns and want to reach a great speed while water skiing use these skis. Slalom skis have a wider end and a flatter base =96 this makes it easier to get up and ride straight, while superior skis have a more tapered tail with beveled edges and a channel bottom. These are more difficult to ski on, but will take the skier faster. You can also go for jump skis that are basically designed for those who plan to take lot of jumps while they water ski.

One must take special care of the rope that one uses during water skiing. Water skiing ropes should be flexible elastic so that the water skier is able to change speeds easily. One should use a plastic molded handle to hold the rope. It is always advisable to wear goggles while water skiing. Protective goggles will stop water and rubbish from going into your eyes, and will stop your glasses (if you wear one) from flying off and sinking if you fall into the water. More at http://theworldsbesthomepage.com/blog/category/sports ]]> Keystone Ski Vacation http://www.artwoo.com/article/keystone-ski-vacation http://www.artwoo.com/article/keystone-ski-vacation#comments Fri, 21 Mar 2008 10:35:01 +0000 keystone ski resortalpine skiingskiing in coloradoski jumpsriding the railssoft snowterrain park http://www.artwoo.com/article/keystone-ski-vacation skiing in Colorado with lights on fifteen different slopes and a great . Night skiing starts at 4 pm and ends at 10 pm.

All of the night skiing at keystone is on the front face of the mountain featuring great runs like the spring dipper. The Keystone Gondola will service most of the night skiing.

The spring dipper is a great long fast groomer with great high speed turns which makes the spring dipper a night skiing favorite. The frenchman is a great groomer which you can carve the most perfect turns, with ease and the big rollers will allow you to take flight if you want this. Always remember to give the right away to slower skiers and always ride in complete control. Your life and others are all always at risk when , so please be careful

The Keystone terrain park offers many different types of rails, boxes and jumps. Some of the are huge, so be careful and be sure to go big! If you fall short of the downhill, you'll regret it. You can spend hours of time jumping and in the Keystone terrain park, but please don't forget about the rest of the mountain, I promise there are other super fun ski runs for you to enjoy.

The Outback at offers amazing views and so much more. The outback express is the only lift which services this beautiful region which includes the north bowl and some of the best tree runs in Colorado. Conquest and the victory chutes are on the north facing slope of the mountain. This means the snow will stay relatively soft which makes it a lot easier to make those important carves through the trees. When you get to the top of the Outback Express, go left and you'll be guaranteed . If you go right on a sunny day, you'll be skiing on crust.

The runs on the South facing side (right off the lift) are my favorite tree runs in Summit county. I suggest you wait for a powder day to experience the South side. The trees are so evenly spaced and the hill is at a favorable pitch. Out of Breckenridge, A Basin, Vail and Beaver Creek, the Outback is my personal favorite place to ski in the trees.

The north bowl is accessible by snow cat, it only costs five dollars, which I believe is quite reasonable for such a beautiful view of the continental divide. If you are interested in free you can always hike the peak which only takes one hour to hike. You can also hike about fifteen minutes and still get a fresh line of powder. Each run from the 15 minute hike offers beautifully gladed forest with a long traverse at the bottom. If you are snowboarding, be sure to get speed at the bottom.

There is a great groomer which, runs right under the Outback Express ski lift. It has plenty of room for you to carve those gnarly turns. This run has a perfect pitch for moguls. Stay skiers right at top of lift for a mogul field all the way down the right side of the groomer. These moguls are great to learn on. For the best skiing in keystone make sure you head to the outback. You won't be disappointed. Your personal ski vacation consultant will get you the best deals...100% guaranteed. The big online sites don't have access to the hidden deals someone on the ground working for you can find. Find out more: http://www.yourskivacation.com ]]> Seniors Can Enjoy Skiing Too http://www.artwoo.com/article/seniors-can-enjoy-skiing-too http://www.artwoo.com/article/seniors-can-enjoy-skiing-too#comments Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:36:18 +0000 physical health benefitscardio vascular systemamerican skierinterested seniorsold tiesski operatorsski services http://www.artwoo.com/article/seniors-can-enjoy-skiing-too American skier is a senior. As the population ages, it is expected that this number will continue to grow.

When a skier enjoys skiing and has incorporated skiing into their lifestyle, it can be hard to let the sport go as the skier ages. Although, many seniors desire to keep skiing in their lifestyle, the cost of the sport can become unaffordable after many years. Many seniors cannot pay the high price of equipment maintenance and of using at the slopes year after year.

If the senior remains fit otherwise, it can be frustrating not to be able to ski due to financial reasons. With some research, can find and participate in skiing clubs and communities that cater to their segment of society. Senior skiing organizations usually have a discount or method of saving money for participants. Many are willing to give seniors a break at the cash register too.

When seniors ski, they remain socially active, which is a great bonus in addition to the . The skiing senior can always enjoy this winter sport with family and friends. Seniors can find new friendships and renew when they are involved in the skiing culture. Skiing has many benefits for all participants.

Before beginning any exercise program, a person should consult their doctor and follow the doctor's advice. Skiing is a physically demanding sport and is not for all seniors.

Skiing is considered a lifestyle choice and requires time and effort to remain fit enough to remain active in the sport. It is necessary for skiers to continue an exercise program throughout the year to keep a strong . Walking is a good way to keep the entire body fit. The skier should prepare for the season by training with weights that target specific and all muscle groups.

The senior should choose easier ski courses as a precaution against slow movement during a crucial moment. As a person ages, they lose flexibility and endurance so it is important not to tax the body while skiing. Even a fit senior's cardiovascular system must be prepared for the skiing season. A senior skier's purpose for skiing should be to have a good time while keeping fit. That the senior can ski is fantastic fact in itself so it is not necessary for the senior skier to take any unnecessary chances.

Equipment is an important component of skiing. Without the right equipment, a senior skier could be injured or unable to ski properly. Not only must equipment must be fitted properly, it must be maintained and replaced as necessary. The senior skier should have good equipment that is fitted by a person with the expertise to do a good job. Proper equipment will help keep the senior safe on the slopes.If you are looking to purchase buy skis visit Buy Skis. Buy Skis is the Internets leading resource for people who are looking to buy snow skis.]]> Finding Extraordinary Cheap Holiday Destinations http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-extraordinary-cheap-holiday-destinations http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-extraordinary-cheap-holiday-destinations#comments Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:20:01 +0000 winter holiday seasonwarm fireplacefrench alpsmountain slopesholiday vacationschristmas holidaysskiing holidays http://www.artwoo.com/article/finding-extraordinary-cheap-holiday-destinations French Alps or the Swiss Alps have some great holiday specials for the entire family. Many people take a skiing vacation around the and find that they have a wonderful time skiing the down the mountains and sitting around the at night. are one of the truly amazing cheap that you can find to enjoy yourself. You will have an experience to remember forever.



The French Alps are amazing during the . You will see that many families plan this time of the year to not only enjoy the holiday but also the fantastic slopes. You can choose a cheap holiday ski vacation to the Lex Deux Alps. You take to the with a guide for some beautiful views of the Alps. This were you will find the glacier for skiing that is the worlds largest to enjoy. You can also enjoy hiking and exploring the ice caves or glazing at the water falls that cascade down around you. A truly amazing adventure and a cheap holiday vacation destination as well.

The other cheap holiday vacation destination might be the Swiss Alps. You can find some cheap holiday apartments or chalets that are always beautifully decorated and ready for anything you have in mind. For a skiing holiday, you will never find the Swiss Alps any more beautiful than they are during the skiing season. You will find easy runs as well as some of the toughest and highest runs in the area. You can plan the cheap holiday vacation in the Swiss Alps very family oriented and enjoyable.

If you are looking for a cheap holiday vacation to the Swiss Alps or the French Alps, you can look around the Internet and find some travel sites that offer the accommodations, airfare and skiing packages all in one. This is the best way to save money on these types of vacations. You may not find a better vacation anywhere else once you experience the Alps and skiing. mr. peterson recommends the UK based travel site http://www.cheapholidayspider.co.uk - a cheap holiday comparison engine. He also would like to recommend http://www.lastminutespider.co.uk - a last minute holiday search engine. ]]> Snowboarders Guide For Riding The Board http://www.artwoo.com/article/snowboarders-guide-for-riding-the-board http://www.artwoo.com/article/snowboarders-guide-for-riding-the-board#comments Sat, 26 Jan 2008 11:14:58 +0000 toe edgekitchen floorleft footslopetoessocks http://www.artwoo.com/article/snowboarders-guide-for-riding-the-board Toe edge - the side of the board where your are Heel edge - the side of the board where your heels are binding - the thing that binds your foot to the board.

Regular vs. Goofy

Picture yourself sliding downhill sideways. Which side is facing downhill, you're right or left? Alternatively, imagine yourself sliding across the in your . Which foot is forward? If you answered left, you're "regular". If you answered right, you're "goofy". On a snowboard, your feet are not perfectly pointed straight toward the toe edge, they are slightly angled either to the left (regular) or to the right (goofy). Your "leading foot" (the foot that goes down the hill first) for a regular person, this is the , for a goofy person, it's the right. The board pictured above is a regular board. On a goofy board, the nose is on the right and the tail is on the left.

Riding the Board

The first unusual factor you need to get used to thinking about is that you can face any direction while riding downhill on a snowboard. You can go down the backwards, that is, with your toes pointed uphill and your back in the direction in which you're traveling. You can go down the hill nose end first or tail end first. You can go downhill facing downhill, or you can do anything in between. Wicked hey?

The uphill edge

bare in mind while you are snowboarding, always put pressure on the uphill edge of the board. So, if you are going down the mountain backwards, that is, facing uphill, your pressure will be on your toes. This way of facing the mountain is called "toeside" for obvious reasons. If you are going down the mountain facing downhill, your pressure will be on your heels. This is called "heel side". DON'T put pressure on the downhill edge. It will cause you to fall over. Think about it. If you are heel side (that is, traveling downhill and facing downhill) and you dig the downhill edge (the toe edge) into the snow, what do you think will happen? The board will stop and you will keep going, causing you to tumble over your board and fall flat on your face. Similarly, if you are toeside (traveling downhill backwards) and your heel edge digs in, what is going to happen? Your board will stop and you won't, causing your backside to slam into the ground. And guess what this is known as?????????

Balancing front-back

The balance point is the center of your weight relative to the surface of the board. Try this: at a standstill, position the board so that it is perpendicular to the slope and you are facing downhill. Now, tilt the toe edge of the board up and down using your ankles, move yourself front and back until you find the spot where you won't tip over. That's your balance point. The balance point changes with the softness of the snow because in soft snow, you'll have to tilt your board away from the incline more so than you would on hard-packed snow. Try going heel side slowly down an incline by reducing the pressure applied by your heels.

Balancing left-right

For the most part, try to keep your weight evenly distributed between your two feet. You don't want to put more weight on the uphill foot. Why not? The surface of the board under the leading (downhill) foot is largely what steers you. Just think of a sled going down a hill. The steering is in the front; friction on the sides of these blades will make it turn. If that analogy didn't work for you, then consider this one: Ever done a pop-a-wheelie on your bike as a kid? What happens when you steer while your front wheel is in the air? It has no effect on your direction, right? No control. Same thing with a snowboard, if there is no pressure on the leading end (the downhill foot), you have no steering.

Stopping

a stop is a lot like a hockey-stop on ice skates. You bring the board perpendicular to the slope and dig the uphill edge in. If you are heel side (if you are facing downhill) you stop by digging your heels in. If you are toeside, (if you are facing uphill) you stop by digging your toes in. Slowing down is basically the same thing. It's just that when you want to stop you apply a lot of pressure fast. At the same time, you'll be balancing your weight (shifting your balance point) so you don't upset your position to the point where you tip over. Practice stopping heel side. Then practice stopping toeside.

Turning

Okay, this part is important, so pay attention. Start with your board perpendicular to (that is, horizontal across) the slope and then apply less and less pressure to the edge and see what happens. The leading foot tends to go downhill. If you stay in this position, with the lead foot downhill and the board parallel with the slope, you'll go fast. To turn, start digging the heels in. What happens? You turn heel side. If you had dug your toes in instead, you would have turned toeside. WAIT UNTIL the nose of your board is pointed directly downhill BEFORE digging in the edge. Always look in the direction where you want to go. You have a tendency to go where you are looking because your head is followed by your shoulders/upper body and then by your hips. It may help to stick your hand out in the direction you want to go. This will help get your shoulder to turn. Avoid looking at the ground right in front of you, especially when you are toeside. Instead, when you are toeside, look over your shoulder in the direction you think you want to turn. When you want to actually turn, let your shoulder follow your head. Your hips and feet will follow. This article is published on robin scotts website http://www.powder-zone.co.uk ]]> Action Sports http://www.artwoo.com/article/action-sports http://www.artwoo.com/article/action-sports#comments Sun, 16 Nov 2008 01:57:28 +0000 sondre norheimalpine skiinghistory of skiingaerial trickssnurferwinterstickfreestyle tricks http://www.artwoo.com/article/action-sports
History of Skateboarding.

Skateboarding began in Southern California sometime in the late 40s or early 50s. Southern California has some of the most popular surfing spots in the state which attract surfers from all over the world. Even when the waves were not right the surfers wanted to be able to surf so somehow skateboarding evolved, no one really knows who built the very first skateboard, but the idea caught on and spread like wild fire. Today there are skateparks, ramp skating, trick skating and the Skateboard itself has evolved to allow skaters the ability to perform very complicated tricks and maneuvers.

History of Snowboarding.

The first Snowboard was called the and was manufactured as a toy in 1966. I was basically a Skateboard with no wheels that you would steer with a rope. It had no bindings but would allow your boots to adhere to the board. In the early 70s a surfer developed a Snowboard called the based on the feel of a surfboard but with the same function as skis. Through the years Snowboards and Snowboarding have increased greatly in popularity with the boards now being designed to enable Snowboards to race and perform .

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Skiing began as a means of travel and transportation. of Norway helped develop Skiing as Recreation and a Sport. In the mid to late 1800s lighter, thinner, cambered skis and a new stiff binding were developed which made it possible for skiers to swing, jump and maneuver turns while skiing down hill.

Some types of skiing are;

is what you do when you go to a ski resort, ride the lift and let gravity propel you down the run.

Alpine Freestyle or Jib skiing is where skiers use jumps or kicks to do .

Back Country Skiing or Nordic touring uses Nordic style equipment which allows skiers to ski up hill in areas where there are no chairlifts.

Cross Country Racing is one third up hill, one third downhill and one third flat.

Adaptive Skiing is done by people with physical disabilities and allows for adaptations to standard ski equipment.

Military Skiing is recreational and a means of transportation for the military, many armies train for ski warfare.

Nordic Jumping or ski flying is where skiers slide down a ramp and fly to see who can to the furthest before landing on the ground.

Nordic Skiing is the most popular style and does not require a special ski area and was developed in Scandinavia as a means of travel in winter.

Telemark skiing uses flexible ski boots that do not lock the heels into the skis which allow the skier to travel at higher speeds.

History of Cycling.

Cycling has grown in popularity over the years and throughout the world. In some countries it is a means of transportation through very narrow streets that will not allow cars to travel or countries where cars are too expensive. Cycling as a sport has increased in popularity throughout the world as well and uses bikes that are specially designed for the terrain and speeds.

Action Sports Gifts.

Action Sports are becoming more popular everyday and there are many types. They can include other sports such as Motocross racing, Surfing, Waterskiing, Parasailing, Rock Climbing, 4 Wheeling, Snowmobiling, Drag Racing, Mountain Biking and more.

Some interesting gift ideas for an Action Sports enthusiast might be to decorate a small tree with Action Sports Ornaments. There are Skateboarding Ornaments, Bike Racer Ornaments, Gifts for Snowboarders, Snowboarding Ornaments and Skiing Ornaments. These are just a few of the different types of Action Sports Gifts that are available. They are sure to be a hit with any Action Sport enthusiast.Debby Brown has been a writer for Christmas Decorations and Gifts for several years. View our Sports Ornaments.]]> How To Stay Hydrated While Skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-stay-hydrated-while-skiing http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-stay-hydrated-while-skiing#comments Tue, 16 May 2006 12:32:07 +0000 hydration packscamelquartsbackpackplastic containerssoda popdiuretics http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-stay-hydrated-while-skiing
Carry Your Own Water

When you downhill ski for an extended period of time, you have a tendency to sweat a lot - up to a quart of water per hour - because you are working hard. The key is to hydrate before you get thirsty, and drink regularly throughout the day.

The best way is to carry at least two of water with you. Water is the best fluid to drink since our bodies are made up of 70% water. Fruit juice and are that can make you even thirstier after you consume them, so you want to avoid these fluids.

How do you carry two quarts of water with you?

Bring a

In the backpack you can put the water you need in two X 1-quart , along with accessories and clothes. When you stop for a break on the slopes remove your backpack and pull out one of the water bottles. If you find that the extra weight on your back effects your skiing or that is quite difficult to removing a back pack two or three timer per hour, than it might be better to get a pack.

Get a Camel Pack

A camel pack is actually a vest that fits around your chest and is zipped or clipped in the front. The pack contains a reservoir that holds between one and three quarts of water or energy drink, as well as a tube that transports the fluid from the reservoir to your mouth on demand.

If you tuck the end of the tube inside your ski jacket you should be able to keep it from freezing up on most winter days, but some come equipped with a system that prevents the delivery tube from freezing up.

You must make an initial investment for the pack, but you will recover this cost in one ski season by not buying bottled water, pop, and juice. And also you can use the camel pack for other sports like inline skating, hiking, and cycling to keep yourself hydrated during these summer activities. My name is Jerome and I'm a student at Antioch university. http://www.theseattlenewsblog.com/ ]]> The Many Sides Of Michigan http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-many-sides-of-michigan http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-many-sides-of-michigan#comments Fri, 04 May 2007 11:34:58 +0000 downhill skiingmanistee national forestann arborfishcarsvibrant nightlifebeautiful nature http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-many-sides-of-michigan Ann Arbor, there are many tourist attractions, restaurants, activities, and much more for you to see and do. The upper and lower peninsulas are beautiful all year long. You will be able to watch the ocean from various coves, visit museums, and see landscapes that will change as you drive through the state.

Michigan has many cities that you will find interesting and full of history. Cities like Ann Arbor, Detroit, have a and many shops to browse. These cities make up a large population of Michigan. Detroit is the city where where first manufactured and also to various music scenes. If you want to see the remnants of the automobile industry, you will not have to look far. Even though there are still car manufacturers in the city, many of the plants closed down after the demand for cars slowed in the United States.

Once you have seen the cities, you should drive to the small towns that surround them. These towns contain many small communities where you will be able to swim, golf, and enjoy the sunshine. You will find many people who are personable and who want to get to know you. They will be able to tell you about the history of their town and where the best places to would be. There are many lakes and streams where you can fish, participate in boating, and many other outdoor activities.

If you enjoy skiing, you should visit Gaylord, which is a wilderness area famous for its . With three ski reports and nine cross-country areas, you will be able to spend the entire day outdoors during the winter. Many people who want to exercise while on vacation will turn to skiing. You will also be able to ice skate, go on sleigh rides, and more.

is one of the most areas in the state of Michigan. If you enjoy hiking, then you will have a lot of fun in this park. You will also be able to fish in one of the many streams that flow through this area. During the summer months, people will camp and fish.

If you want to spend the majority of your vacation outdoors, then you should consider the state of Michigan. With so many outdoor activities to choose from, you will not want to miss out on any of them. This is a great place to plan a family vacation as well. Greg Chadwick owns and operates the Michigan Hotel Finder website. To find great deals on Michigan Hotels please visit us at http://www.michiganhotelfinder.com ]]> A Guide For The Skiing Beginner http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-guide-for-the-skiing-beginner http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-guide-for-the-skiing-beginner#comments Thu, 21 Sep 2006 00:27:03 +0000 skiingprofessional ski instructorski slopesski goggleswear helmetshelprate options http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-guide-for-the-skiing-beginner help you relax and give you everything you need to know to get started.

Equipment, and instruction are the three basic things you need to know before you start . You need to know if you should rent or buy your equipment. You might end up hating to ski so you should probably not spend the money to buy the equipment at first. Make sure the equipment you rent is comfortable and fits your skill level. You will want to ask help from a salesperson since you will be a beginner. Having is important and having your children is a safety precaution. You should be able to find boots, skies, helmets and goggles at the rental shop.

When thinking about clothing, make sure you dress appropriately. Being warm is the goal since you will be out in the cold snow. Try dressing in layers with the bottom layer having a material that keeps water away from your body since you will be out in winter conditions. This will help you keep warm and dry. Without your teeth chattering, you will enjoy your skiing experience a lot more.

Plan when and where you are going to start skiing. Do some research and find the resorts and slopes near where you live or plan a vacation to find some slopes not so close to you. You need to know how much your skiing excursion is going to cost you. Some of the expenses you need to plan for are rentals for equipment, ski lift fees and facility fees. If you are planning to go skiing over a weekend, plan on the prices being higher. If you go with a large group you might qualify for a reduced price. Make sure to check out a resorts when doing research.

There are several ways you can learn how to ski. You can teach yourself, have a friend teach you or take lessons from a . It is dangerous to attempt to teach your self and this option should not be considered. You will miss out on a lot of important information and tips if you have a friend teach you but it will save you a great deal of money. The most practical option is to take lessons from an instructor. This will help you stay safe and learn important techniques.

It can be scary to learn how to ski but if you take the proper precautions then you can have a safe, exciting and fun skiing experience. Robert Michael is a writer for D Skiing which is an excellent place to find skiing links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.dskiing.com ]]> Hiking For Skiers http://www.artwoo.com/article/hiking-for-skiers http://www.artwoo.com/article/hiking-for-skiers#comments Wed, 30 May 2007 01:14:52 +0000 leg musclesaching musclesskiingcurvesskiersuphillworkout http://www.artwoo.com/article/hiking-for-skiers skiing, and I`m almost inclined to agree with you. Skimming along the snowy ridges and of the mountainside almost feels like you're effortlessly sailing, but this is just a misconception. Experienced know that underneath the surface, your and your upper body are getting a tough .



You want proof? How about taking a gander at all those skiers who just dive in right away, then return several minutes later, moaning and groaning about how their legs hurt. You know that next day you'll see them walking around with all over their body. This is what usually happens every time a skier forgets to maintain his skiing muscles during the summer.

Come wintertime, the muscles that you need for your favorite sport will definitely fall apart on you before long.

Hiking can play a valuable role in keeping your muscles healthy and strong, the same muscles that you need for skiing. Now how would you develop those muscles? Go up. Include hills into your hiking itinerary as much as possible. Start slowly, but do more intense hikes as the summer draws to a close. Gradually increasing your effort will surely pay off the next time you visit your favorite ski resort.

When hiking uphill, though, remember to take short steps. Try to keep your weight even and don't lean into the hill too much.

When going downhill, be careful not to lean backwards too far, or you'll end up falling on your rear end. This is especially true on wet terrain, so be careful.

Remember that your goal in hiking is to workout your core and leg muscles for skiing. So if you can hike around in a ski resort, so much the better. Several ski areas are open during the summer for hiking and mountain biking, so take advantage of it. Some of the resorts even run their ski lifts to bring tourists, hikers, and bikers to areas that are difficult to get to. Being above the tree line and seeing the slopes without snow will really make you see them in a whole new light.

Use hiking poles, not ski poles. Using a pair of hiking poles will give you an added bonus, since this will be very helpful in giving you an upper-body and respiratory workout, much similar to using a Nordic-Trak machine. Avoid using your ski poles as hiking poles, since continually stabbing them into the ground will eventually damage or break the tips. Your ski poles are not designed for that sort of treatment, anyway, so you'd be better off using a pair of poles specifically suited for the job.

Keep going, but rest when you have to. Bring along a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated. Wear gloves to keep your palms from getting blistered all over from holding onto you hiking poles. Don't forget also to tie your boot laces tight and short. A big loop from your shoelace could and will get caught on something, probably resulting in a nasty fall. And with that in mind, bring along a first-aid kit and a multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss knife or something similar.

Look for good uphill hiking trails in your area, or ask your local tourism department for assistance in finding good places.

Keep in mind that your goal is to build up your muscles for the great skiing ahead. So go out, find that hill, start hiking and think snow! Azlan Irda is the co-founder of http://www.campinggear247.com, which provides high-quality camping and outdoors gear. Visit us for all your outdoor equipment needs. ]]> The Heart Of The Alps http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-heart-of-the-alps http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-heart-of-the-alps#comments Sun, 23 Sep 2007 07:24:59 +0000 take full advantageles menuiresskiingoff pistegentle slopessnowboard schoolssnowboard areas http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-heart-of-the-alps skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Couchevel, , Val Thorens, La Tania and St Martin are all linked to the resort and each other whilst the M=E9ribel ski area alone consists of 9 different sections.

M=E9ribel is the only ski resort to have 15 high capacity gondalifts and the resort also boasts 14 drag-lifts and 19 chair-lifts. There is a massive 150km of groomed runs, 9 black 23 red, 36 blue and 8 green, offering versatility to suit all skiing abilities. Intermediates have a variety of red runs to choose from while beginners will appreciate the easy runs and . Advanced skiers can of the glacier skiing and soft powder runs and picturesque descents through the forest. The area is naturally blessed with good snow cover however thanks to the snow making facilities on the upper and lower slopes, lack of snow is rarely ever an issue and getting around the resort is easy. Ideally located, M=E9ribel is home to an impressive 2 Olympic runs, 2 slalom stadiums and also has 2 . Not to be missed try the women's downhill of the 1992 Olympics from Roc de Fer or the runs from the top of Saulire down to M=E9ribel or the two sweeping runs and of Mont Vallon.

11 ski and are on hand for those that feel they would benefit from lessons, whether you are a beginner or experienced skier. Off piste excursions to the Gebrolaz Glacier and Heliskiing in Italy and Switzerland can also be arranged through the M=E9ribel Mountain Guides office. Aside from skiing M=E9ribel is number one when it comes to a lively apr=E8s ski culture. There are a wide array of restaurants serving gourmet cuisine, bars and popular nightclubs in the resort. Hot spots include Rond Point above M=E9ribel 1600 and Jacks Bar in the main town. During the day the pretty and traditional style of resort can also be enjoyed off the slopes with a whole host of other activities such as swimming, rock climbing. biking, paragliding and shopping. A walkers pass is situated at the top of the mountains and restaurants delivering a wonderful view of the entire resort. A luxury ski holiday in M=E9ribel offers everything your heart could possibly desire=85 For more information on luxury ski holidays please visit the Elegant Resorts website at http://www.elegantresorts.co.uk. ]]>