Four Lessons to Learn When Transitioning from Skiing to Snowboarding

There are many important lessons to be learned in transitioning from skiing to snowboarding. While the transition can be difficult at times, it is key to have patience and to practice as much as possible.

As for my experience, I learned to ski when I was about five-years-old, but transitioned tosnowboarding when I was a teenager after receiving an unexpected snowboard as a Christmas present. To this day, I often go to Stowe, Vermont every winter to practice both sports.

Listed below are my tips to others who may want to learn how to snowboard after being a skier.

Be prepared for some falling

One thing to expect from this transition is that falling from snowboarding will happen. It is simply part of learning how to snowboard. This is important to know as learning how to balance is crucial. I have fallen many times while snowboarding; it happens to even the best. Be prepared for some falling as everyone has to adjust to the sport, particularly to the snowboard.

Do not test your limit as a snowboarder beginner

Another important piece of advice is to not test your limit as a beginner at snowboarding. While it may look fun to snowboard on the more exciting trails, snowboarding like many winter sports can be dangerous. As for my first time snowboarding, I wisely used small slopes that limited potentially risk.

Have proper clothes and gear for the transition

Having proper clothes and gear for the transition is important for practical and safety reasons. Before snowboarding for the first time, beginners will need to buy at least a new pair of pants and a jacket. Snowboarders also often wear baggy clothes. In addition, I strongly encourage new snowboarders to buy a helmet for safety reasons. While not all snowboarders wear helmets, wearing a helmet could prevent numerous injuries from occurring. One injury that a helmet could prevent is a concussion.

Taking a private class in snowboarding is helpful

My last recommendation is for beginning snowboarders to take a private class. Like purchasing a helmet, taking a private class can be expensive. It is however worth the expense. Private classes can teach an individual numerous tips, including how to have better technique. The information learned from a private class can also help an athlete learn how to prevent injuries. As for me, I have received private instruction in both sports, and have cherished what I learned. Finally, having a friend at the private class who also would like to learn how to snowboard could be beneficial.

Skiing to Snowboarding: Essentials You Need to Know - Tried and Tested Tips for Snowboarding Beginners

Every winter, I take numerous ski trips to upstate New York, a breathtaking mecca of ski resorts, to catch some fresh powder. Recently, I tried my hand at snowboarding. Although daunting at first, I soon got the hang of it with the help of my instructor and not to mention many stumbles along the way.

Gear Up

Snowboarding looks like it's a lot of fun, and it can be, as long as you are protected from the elements and potential dangers along the way. First of all, get yourself a really sturdy helmet, because the last thing you want is slamming your head onto a tree. Next, get some goggles to prevent the sunlight from blocking your views (this definitely resonates with skiiers). Finally, wear fitted, thermo-layered clothes that will really bundle you up and prevent snow frost from setting in.

Ride the Waves

Perhaps the most important thing in snowboarding is maintaining your balance. Just like surfing, it takes some time to coordinate your body to stay on board.

My ski instructor has always instructed me to keep my knees bent and parallel to my shoulders. The same goes for snowboarding, because a lot of the balance and movement depends on how well you can keep your weight maintained on your knees. Make sure to also use your arms to help you balance.

Look Forward

It's tempting to look down at the board now and then to make sure your feet are securely fastened. Don't, especially when you're already in motion. Once you start gliding, spread your arms out to help you balance your body weight. Then simply lean forward to start downhill and always look at a spot ahead of you. Looking down will simply make you dizzy and over-analyze your body position (and most likely, trip and fall).

Learn Your Powder

Learning how to maneuver your snowboard over different types of snow is crucial for survival. Fresh powder is the safest to snowboard on, because it has more friction than others, so falling won't hurt as much. Packed snow that has set in for a day is the best to snowboard on, because it has just the right amount of friction and ice to help you accelerate and slow down. Icy snow is potentially dangerous to snowboard on, because you can't really brake as well.

From Skiing to Snowboarding: Advice from the Experts

There are many ways to enjoy a snow-covered mountain. Downhill skiing, cross country skiing,snowboarding and snow tubing all offer excitement and cold weather thrills. For hundreds of years people have enjoyed racing down the mountains on skiis, but if you are looking to experience the mountain in a new way and join the fastest growing winter sport, here are some tips from some experts for transitioning from skiing to snowboarding.

Set Your Expectations… Low

Maggie, a boarder who has spent time on mountains all across the US (including Minnesota, Vermont, Colorado and Montana), had lots of advice to give when asked: what tips would you give a skier who wants to transition to snowboarding? "Thinking that snowboarding is like skiing is totally unrealistic. No matter your experience, be prepared to eat snow on your first day." She says to "bend your knees and lean into the hill. Leaning into the hill is the natural way to keep your balance. If you lean into the hill, you have less distance to fall, especially compared to falling forward, downhill." No matter how you fall, or how many ways you take a digger, hopefully these tips will keep the bruising to a minimum.

Start on the bunny hill

No matter your experience, start on the bunny hill. Save your money, your pride and your body by starting where beginners start, because that is what you are.

More about falling

Life Tips offers these beginning snowboarding technique instructions. "Always keep your hand in a fist and punch the snow as you fall backward." Broken wrists are the most common injury to new snowboarders and this is one way to avoid them. You can also wear protective gloves with inserted wrist braces. Another good idea is to wear a helmet. Life Tips also suggests practicing your stance, edging and steering indoors on carpet before heading out the slippery snow covered hill. You can work on your balance and getting comfortable without the hindrance of weather, other riders and your ego getting in the way.

Snowboarding is a social activity

Mason Aquirre, a Duluth Minnesota native, will be making his second appearance at the upcoming Sochi Winter Olympics. A professional snowboarder since the age of 15, he advises to keep it fun, ride with friends and always watch other riders. "Learn from them and let them push you."

Never give up

Jake made the switch from skiing to snowboarding when he was so young, he doesn't even remember what was difficult about the now automatic movements. But he sees beginner snowboarders all the time while working at Keystone Resort in Colorado. He says, "Snowboarding is not the easiest skill to learn, but if you don't give up, you will get it… and enjoy it."

One last thing to think about

Another question to ask yourself is: are you willing to give up the time to learn this new skill? Online sources say it takes about 10 days on the hill to be really comfortable as a snowboarder. You have the muscle, balance and stamina from your skiing experience, so you are ahead of the game. But if you aren't willing to put in the time, you might as well stick to skiing. No matter how you enjoy the mountain this season, I hope you stay safe and have a great time.

Skiing to Snowboarding Transition: Tips & Lessons Learned

Even though I grew up with my family skiing, I had always wanted to try snowboarding. After becoming bored of all the slopes, I decided to make the transition this past winter. While I haven't been snowboarding for that long yet, I've already learned several important lessons about the sport.

Wear protective gear. 

I know this seems basic, but it's important. Because a friend was teaching me to snowboard and not an instructor, I wasn't wearing all the protective gear that I should of been. We were having a great time at first... until I fell and sprained my wrist so bad I had to stay off the mountain for two weeks.

Most injuries you get from snowboarding will be in your wrist, so make sure to have good wrist guards. A helmet is also extremely important, as are knee pads. It didn't matter that I knew how to ski, I still fell A LOT at first. Having the proper protective gear made the difference between getting back up after a face plant, or having to be stuck at home in pain while everyone else was having fun.

Confidence is key.

I was able to pick up snowboarding fairly quickly and I think the main reason was confidence. If you already know how to ski, odds are you feel at home up in the mountains and this makes a big difference. For me, I learned how to snowboard on the same slopes I had gone skiing down a hundreds times before. I knew I could make it down them fine, and even though the slopes were much more challenging now that I was on a snowboard, having the right mindset really helped.

Don't worry about stopping.

A lot of my friends switched over to snowboarding right around the same time I started and one of the things we all had in common was fear of not stopping. Simply put, with snowboarding, this is no 'French fry', 'pizza', like there is with skiing.

It took about a week before snowboarding really 'clicked' with me, but once it does, you're able to go down the mountain with ease. Yes, you will be going fast and it will be extremely scary since you're on a completely new board, but if you let that fear slow you down, you'll always be wiping out. After a little while, I was able to get the feel for the board and just go for it. After that, the rest was history.

A snowboard is a snowboard.

This may sound obvious, but I thought that because I knew how to ski and surf, I'd be able to pick up snowboarding overnight. And it's true that knowing those sports does help... skiers will have some advantages because they already know the mountain. Surfers will have some advantages because they have a general idea how to steer (though it is still slightly different), but at the end of the day, a snowboard is it's own unique piece of equipment. Learning how to use it requires practice and patience. It takes time to get the hang of it, but once you do, it's an amazingly fun sport.

From Facing Forward to Taking the Hill Sideways: How to Successfully Transition from Skiing to Snowboarding

The first time I saw a snowboarder slicing through the powdery snow, making expert swerves in the path behind him, I was convinced I needed to turn in my two skis for the sleek, cool design of a snowboard. Although I had learned to ski soon after I could walk and had become confident on the slopes, there was something elusive and unique about this new form of slope gliding I couldn't resist. And so began my journey in learning the important lessons in transitioning from skiing to snowboarding. There are four tips I would give any friend in making the change, to help them build confidence in their own journey.

If you're thinking of trying snowboarding for the first time after a life time of skiing, the first thing I would tell you is to get accurately fitted for your board in the shop. Not only will you have to make the decision to board regular or goofy (left leg forward), you will benefit greatly from the fit of your boot. Instructors can help you make this decision in the shop. To see which foot you will prominently lead with on your own, simply stand with both legs together, and pretend to fall forward. Whichever leg you step out with instinctively will be your leading foot. Before your ready to begin, you'll need to adjust to feel of the boot compared to the constrictions of a ski boot. It feels like going from a steel trap into a comfortable pair of slippers. Although this is a welcome change to many, it can feel a bit disorienting to a skier who is used to the strict, supportive confines of the former boot.

Once you're suited up with a good fit, it's time to hit the slopes. I highly recommend signing up for snowboarding lessons for first timers. The snowboard instructors can offer you the best tips at staying on your board, and this is especially useful in a group setting. You won't be the only adult in the lesson, and there is something about struggling with your peers that makes the experience more rewarding and comedic. Instead of going at it on your own, embrace the fact that others in your group will spend just as much time falling the first couple trips down as you.

Although I was tempted to plow straight down the hill to keep my balance, a better idea for first timers is to make several wide turns. If you're starting on a bunny hill, which is usually a shorter, less steep slope, take your time as you snowboard to go across the entire distance of the hill. This will guarantee a slower pace, for when you inevitably fall. It will also give you much needed practice in making your very first turns, which is often when beginners tend to bite the dust (or, in this case, snow). Be aware of your peers on the hill in front of you and behind you. As your confidence and balance improves, you can begin to make tighter, more frequent turns and will have a much better idea of your speed.

The last, but perhaps most important tip for transitioning, is to develop a can do attitude. Falling down may not be something you are used to, especially if you are an experienced skier. Go in with the knowledge that you will fall several times on a single trip down the bunny hill. Take this as an opportunity to wave at your audience, those skiers who are passing above on the chair lift. Laugh at yourself, and have fun. In my first lesson, the number one difference I saw between those who eventually mastered the bunny hill and those who ended up back in skis after lunch was their tenacity. Not only will several falls help you get over the initial embarrassment, getting back up on your board without detaching your boots helps you become one with your board.

I'll never forget the feeling at the end of a very tiresome first day of snowboarding. It was on my final run down the bunny hill that day that I managed (slowly but surely) to make it down the hill without a single fall. It made all the bumps and bruises worth it, and I felt truly accomplished. If snowboarding is something you are passionate about trying, follow these tips and never give up.

From Skier to Snowboarder

The transition from skier to snowboarder was not as easy as expected. I picked up skiing pretty quickly and was comfortable on the mountain, so I figured snowboarding should be an easy transition. Boy, was I wrong. There are a couple of similarities such as balance, and good posture but snowboarding was more challenging than I anticipated. I learned some pretty tough lessons. I wished these lessons had come in the form of advice, rather than personal experience.

Get Pads

Expect to fall- A LOT! At first, I spent more time on the ground than snowboarding. Falling is inevitable. You fall forward, backward- any direction. Your wrists, ankles, head, back and behind are at risk of getting hurt. I have had a bruised tailbone, sprained ankle, and whiplash. I am lucky. I heard of people breaking their wrists because when they fall forward, they use their hands to catch their fall. This is where pads are a saving grace. Make sure to wear a helmet at all times. Get wrist, knee and hip pads as well so when you do fall, it is a little more comfortable and you are not at risk of breaking bones.

Get Lessons

After one lesson of skiing, I was able to do snowplowing and basic turning. I was able to ski one little green run. After one lesson of snowboarding, I could barely get up on the board. I wasn't able to ride on my own at all. Professional multiple lessons is necessary. It takes about 3 lessons before one can really use their toeside and heelside to turn and maneuver the snowboard. You might still fall but after a few lessons, you will at least be able to be independent and comfortable.

It's a New Skill Set

Whatever you learned in skiing won't apply in snowboarding. Snowboarding is a different skill set. When you are used to having each leg free as in skiing, you learn to turn with your legs. You spread your legs out in a snowplow (upside-down V shape) to control speed and stop. Snowboarding is completely different. Both legs are bound to one board and this feels awkward at first. Also, turning is not as easy. You can't really use your legs to turn, instead you use your board edges. You use your heelside and toeside to turn and maneuver down the mountain. This is very tiring and can be frustrating if not timed right.

Also, people will tell you that if you can skateboard, wakeboard, or surf, you can easily snowboard. When I finally took a lesson, I took a lesson with a few other friends. They each had experience in at least one of the above sports, unlike myself. I discovered that it helps if you have done the above activities, balance-wise, but as far as skills, it will not help you. It is a different skill set. My friends were struggling and they were unable to control their boards. They fell as much or more than I did. I actually performed better than they did.

Be patient, take your time, practice and have fun. You will learn to snowboard.

Tips for Transitioning From Skiing to Snowboarding

In high school, I got my first job. I was a ski and snowboard technician in the rental department at Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort. My first time skiing was actually in Girl Scouts but that was years earlier and by this time I had forgotten much of what I had learned. I relearned the sport during 'ride breaks' at work. Next season, I worked at Meadows again and was encouraged, by a friend, to try snowboarding. Skiing is a lot different than snowboarding. If you're looking to make the skis to board transition, I have some advice and tips for you.

From Two to One

This biggest difference is quite obvious. In skiing, one can use both feet separately, much like roller or ice skating, while with snowboarding your feet are together somewhat similar to skateboarding.

Regular and Goofy

What I learned is that just because your feet are on the same board, doesn't mean you don't use both of them. With snowboarding you have a dominant foot. We would help first time boarders figure it out like this: whichever foot you would kick a soccer ball with is your dominant foot. If yours is your right foot, you're board will be 'regular' if it's your left, 'goofy'. The dominant foot will be closer to the back of the board and is used to help steer.

Bend at the Knees

As with skiing, you'll want to keep your knees slightly bent; this will help increase speed and allow you to have a quicker reaction in turning. On a snowboard you also want to lean slightly toward the back keeping more weight on your dominant foot. Too much wait in the front can cause you to tumble down the mountain head first.

Start on the Bunny Slope

If you are already a skilled skier, you may be tempted to take your first snowboard run on the expert trails. I wouldn't suggest this. Start out a little slower. Try the bunny slope first or an easier trail for your own safety and the safety of others.

Get the Right Size Board

Depending on what type of skiing you are used to, snowboard sizing can be very different. A general rule of thumb that we used in the shop was a board that, standing up straight, was about the height of your chin. A smaller board is easier to maneuver for beginners.

Switching From Skiing to Snowboarding: A Guide to Saving Your Knees

Growing up, my family went skiing at the local "mountain" (are there really mountains in western New York?) a couple of times a year. One year, we spent a week skiing in the Rocky Mountains. My senior year of high school I realized that I had two choices, I could try to compete with my brothers to be the best skier in the family or I could be the only snowboarder in my family and win the title by default. Naturally I switched to snowboarding.

I have to say that I have not regretted making the switch to snowboarding, but I wish I would have known four things before I switched.

1. Don't try to go slow

The first time I went snowboarding, I started on the bunny hill and figured slow and steady was the way to go. BAD IDEA. I fell 15 times on my knees and face on a run that was shorter than 100 yards. When skiing, you can do the snowplow or the pizza slice to slow down or stop, when you snowboard, the only way to stop is to sit down. There is a minimum speed that you have to maintain so your momentum will keep you upright. Just like it is really hard to ride a bike at 1 mph, snowboardingrequires less balance when you go faster.

2. When in doubt, Sit Down

When you are going too fast while snowboarding, sit down. When you are unsure about what trail to take, sit down. When you are waiting for those lame skier friends of yours, sit down. Don't try to stop and stay standing, sit down. You will waste a lot of effort and energy trying to stand, and if you are just learning how to snowboard, sitting down is the ultimate reset button.

3. Watch the front edge

While Snowboarding on the first day, I must have caught my toeside edge so often that my knees wondered if I was taking vengeance on them for some past wrong they did to me. Turning your hips back to the familiar skiing "facing down the hill" position will spell doom. I was trying to teach my 40 year old brother-in-law how to snowboard and at one point in the day he was picking it up well. Unfortunately, he started going a little too fast and did not follow my previous advice to Sit Down. My brother in law panicked and went back to the familiar snowplow position, resulting in him catching a front edge at a higher speed and it was the last time he ever tried snowboarding.

4. Beware of flat areas

When you hit a flat area on the hill in skis, you can use your ski poles. When you hit a flat area on a snowboard and you stop, you take your board off and walk. Be aware where these areas are and the amount of speed needed to make it through them without having to hike it out. The rule of when in doubt, sit down does not apply unless you are ready to walk afterward. Walking to the downhill portion may not seem like a bad thing, but once you get unstrapped from your board it almost seems too easy to not put them on again.

The first day is the hardest day of snowboarding. I was told that and it is true. If you follow the advice above, you can make it past your first day and on to the moments that really show why so many people have taken up the sport.

Learning to Snowboard: From a Skier's Perspective

My dad first taught me to ski when I was 8 years old, but by the time I was in high school most my friends were snowboarding. Not wanting to be the only one in the group skiing, I decided to give it a try. Here are some things about the transition I wish I would have known beforehand.

Go with someone who is around your skill level

Don't make the mistake of going with a group where you're the only inexperienced snowboarder. Nobody wants to babysit you while you learn the basics. Plus, it's no fun getting left behind or having to constantly try to keep up. Find someone else who's around your skill level to go with so that you can grow as riders together.

Get the basics down before going farther up the mountain

Don't be afraid to spend some time on the bunny hill. Having a solid foundation of the basics is crucial before trying to tackle a more difficult run. Remember, safety first. It's less embarrassing to do an easier trail a couple more times, than to injury yourself while attempting a run you weren't ready for. Don't be over ambitious. 

Make sure your board is the right size

The first time I went snowboarding I borrowed a friend's board. This would have been fine if we were around the same height, but that wasn't the case. The board was way too long. Board length is usually based off of your height, but if you're just starting out you may want to get something a little smaller. The bigger the board in comparison to you, generally, the faster it will go and the harder it will be to control. When you're first starting out, easier to control can equal more fun.

Prepare to spend some time on your butt

The first time I went snowboarding, I definitely underestimated the amount of time I would be spending on my backside. That being said, you want to make sure you have the right gear. Water resistant everything is important. Unlike skiing, when you slow down your board is horizontal to the slope of the mountain and you lean back, often times (at least in the beginning) this can cause you to land on your bottom. A good pair of water resistant gloves is essential, since you'll be using your hands to get up fairly often.

Find a good spot to strap in

As a skier, you know how annoying it can be to get off the lift only to have to weave your way through a group of snowboarders, plopped down on their butts, in order to get to the trail. You'd be surprised how easy it is to forget to be mindful of others when you're caught up in the excitement, but don't be one of those people. Be respectful of others and have fun. 

Best Things Skiers Should Know Before Hitting the Snowboard Slopes

If you're a regular skier, you should know the basic principles of good balance; however,snowboarding is a whole different world when it comes to staying on your feet. Instead of your stance being pretty straight forward, as it is in skiing, snowboarding has two different stances (also known as styles) to choose from:

• · Goofy Style - This means you have your right foot in front of your board and your left foot at the back. 
• · Regular Style - This means you have your left foot in front of the board and your right foot in the back. 

If you participate in other "board related" sports, these might sound familiar. Surfing andskateboarding also follow the same set of styles, so if you have any knowledge of either then it will definitely serve as an advantage.

Finding your style can be pretty easy. It's all about what feels comfortable to you. Stand up and picture yourself standing on a snowboard. If you can foresee yourself balancing better in one style better than the other then, chances are, that is probably your style.

Pad It Up Dude!

The most important thing in any sport, or anything for that matter, is your safety. I can't hence this enough to all of you out there who may be new to "extreme" sports like snowboarding or skiing, it's never a matter of "if" you will fall and get hurt, but it is a matter of "when" you fall and get hurt. I can only pray that when it does happen, you read a little guideline like this and the injury was just a few scratches.

The first thing you want to do is go out and get some decent safety gear. A few key items I suggest are:

• · Helmet - There's a reason why they make these and I strongly recommend them, remember, your brain is important. 
• · Rear Pad - You'll be hitting your rear on the ground a lot, so if you value comfortable sitting I suggest that you get some extra padding. 
• · Protective Eyewear - Anybody who knows anybody that participates in any winter weather sport should know that this is a given. 
• · Wrist and Ankle Wrap - This is very important because a lot of snowboarders face heavy wrist, finger, and ankle breaks. A good bracer such as a wrap is always good. 

These are just a few but you can never have enough safety equipment! Make sure to invest!

Let's Start Over

A lot of experienced skiers make that same old mistake by underestimating the differences of snowboarding and skiing. They will almost always try to go down the same size slop they would go down on their skis. That's a bad idea and anyone who has made that mistake will tell you the same. I have myself. There is nothing fun about spending all your learning time tumbling down an ice cold hill and getting a mouth full of fresh powder.

Try a small slope first, and then move on to a slightly larger one. Gradually go up in difficulty level before making it to the same level you are at skiing. It's almost like starting all over again when you move to snowboard, but usually people how have had experience skiing will advance a whole lot faster than someone who hasn't.

To Sum It Up - Snowboarding can be fun, but also dangerous. Make sure to take the proper precautions no matter how experienced you are at skiing or any other winter sport.

6 Tips for First-Time Skiers

Learning to ski? Follow these six tips for a fun and safe day on the slopes!

Find a Ski Resort That Offers Packages for Beginners

Taking a lesson with a professional instructor is a must for your first time, and finding a resort that offers beginner packages -- usually including lessons, rentals, and lift tickets -- is a great way to save money and get the most from your day.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

If you are going to spend the day on the slopes in the snow, you should be dressed comfortably. Denim absorbs water, so don't wear jeans. Instead, rent or buy some pants especially designed for the snow. If that isn't an option, a nylon windbreaker will deflect the snow. On top, layer a sweater or fleece over a turtleneck. Finally, a loose-fitting jacket made for the snow will keep you warm, dry, and flexible.

If Rented Gear is Uncomfortable, Admit It!

It's important that your ski boots fit well. If you're renting, take the time to have them fitted correctly, and speak up if there's something uncomfortable. You should be able to wiggle your toes, but should not be able to move your whole foot side to side. Wear a pair of either ankle socks or knee highs that will not cut off any circulation to your feet once those boots are fully tightened.

Stay Hydrated

Every time you exhale on a cold day, you are losing water your body needs. Drink plenty of liquids throughout the day. Water and Gatorade are perfect, but save the coffee and hot chocolate for the end of the day.

Be Aware of Basic Safety

Skiing is a great sport, but it can also be dangerous. Renting or buying supplemental equipment like goggles, helmets, and gloves might add up, but they can also keep you from serious injury. If you need to stop, don't do so in a spot that hides you from oncoming skiers. Always go out with another skier, and be aware of the international signage used in skiing: a green circle designates a hill suitable for beginners, blue squares intermediate, and black and double black diamonds are for the most advanced skiers.

Have Fun!

Skiing can be a blast! Know that you will fall down as you're learning to use new muscles and balance techniques. Know that it will be awkward to get back up in boots that don't allow your ankle or foot to flex. Also know that every person on the slope with you has fallen at least once. Have fun!

Three Tips on How to Cross Country Ski This Winter - Get a Good Workout in the Snow

When the snow comes down, the cross country skiers come out. Cross country skiing is a fun, easy workout that gets people off the couch and outside during the winter. I've been cross country skiing for more than 20 years and have had my share of tumbles in the snow as well as ski sessions which left me sweating even on cold days. If I can do it, so can you.

First, be sure there's at least 6 inches of snow on the ground before venturing out. If there's less than 6 inches of snow on the ground, you could be plowing through mud not snow.

Second, check the thermometer before you head out. Don't ski if the thermometer rises above 40 degrees or dips below 10 degrees. My favorite temperatures for skiing as between 15 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

One word of caution: be sure to check with your doctor first if you've never cross country skied before. Even though this sport is easy enough that small children, senior citizens and everyone in between can do it; it's a lot more strenuous than it looks.

What to Wear Cross Country Skiing 

You can buy your own equipment and get properly fitted for skis and boots at a ski store or sporting goods. Or you can rent equipment at parks which allow cross country skiing.

Cross country skiers should wear a ski jacket, of course. Some skiers wear jeans but I prefer ski pants, which are sold at ski and sporting goods stores. These are basically snow pants for adults. Ski pants will keep you warm and dry in case you fall. They also have zippered pockets which are handy for storing car keys, tissues and granola bars, just in case you get hungry.

Dress in layers, starting with a t-shirt and sweatshirt over it. Don't wear a sweater under your jacket unless you are skiing on one of those 10 to 15 degree Fahrenheit days.

Protect your hands, head and feet. Wear mittens or heavy gloves. Wear a hat, ear muffs or scarf over your ears. Be sure you have at least two pairs of socks on. Bring extra socks with you when you're trying on your ski boots.

Most people make the mistake of dressing too warmly. You may be shivering when you start out but you'll quickly work up to a sweat. That's when you can take a layer of clothing off.

Where to Go Cross Country Skiing 

Many county and state parks allow cross country skiing during the winter. Some places even have "warm up huts" where cold skiers can take a break inside. These parks usually have equipment that can be rented. Some offer snack bars where skiers can grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate after skiing.

Another good place to ski is a golf course. There's a lot of room to ski down the fairways. Golf courses tend to have long stretches of flat space followed by some hills - great for cross country skiing.

Some skiers head out to the country or to the woods. Make sure you are not skiing on someone's property. Look for posted or no trespassing signs, and don't ski there if you see one.

How to Cross Country Ski 

Cross country skiing is easy to do. Just lean forward, push your feet forward slightly and glide. Use your poles to keep your balance and help push yourself along the trail.

Some people jog on skis but this isn't necessary. Go as fast or as slow as you want. You will get a good workout either way.

Turning can be tricky. Just pick up your feet and slowly walk your way into the turn. Don't turn too fast, or you could lose your balance.

Some skiers enjoy the thrill of flying down hills while others avoid them. If you do want to ski down hills, carefully walk your way up the hill. Then, make sure you have a clear path down the hill without trees, fences or other skiers blocking your way. Next, lean forward and slowly push yourself down the hill. Don't lean too far forward, or you may fall. As you go down the hill, bend your knees and lean in. Let the force of gravity pull you down.

Most people who try cross country skiing get hooked on the sport and can't wait to ski again. Just don't forget your woolen hat.

Basic Tips for Beginner Snow Skiers

Skiing is is a fun outdoor sport for kids, as well as for adults. When first learning how to snow ski the instructor will most likely teach you on a small slope. But like any outdoor recreational activity like bike riding, roller blading or skate boarding, it is important to follow certain procedures to protect oneself from harm and still have fun outdoors. Keep these important tips in mind when snow skiing.

1. When learning how to snow ski one should wear body protective gear to stay warm, to avoid frost bites and to stay safe, in order to avoid serious injury, if you fall or collide with another skier. One should wear a goose down or padded coat, helmet, gloves, goggles, outerwear pants/ski pants, and ski boots.

2. Start off by going down a small slope by practicing how to bend forward, left and right. This will help you maintain a balance and speed when going down hill. When returning up hill use the ski "skins" at the bottom of the skis to prevent slipping.

3. Try skiing down the slope again, but at a faster speed maintaining a steady balance and practice jumping at least once. Return uphill.

4. One last tip is to practice going right and left down hill. Make sure to look in both directions, to prevent collision with other skiers.

Remember, snow skiing is a fun outdoor sport. Not only are you burning energy but relieving stress while having fun.

Skiing Can Be as Easy as One, Two, Three

Expert skiers can make the sport of skiing look so easy and fun. Skiing is a graceful looking sport for fans of all ages to enjoy. This sport not only provides participants a great physical workout, but also has ski lodges that provide a nice, warm friendly atmosphere for the skiers and their family and friends to enjoy after the perfect day on the slopes.

This article has been written to give novice skiers some tips or quick resources for skiing. Perhaps this article will help people see that skiing can be as easy as one, two, three.

Equipment

Ski resorts or lodges are a great one shop stop for novice skiers. Resorts and lodges have ski shops that provide both rental and sale equipment and clothing. Renting ski equipment and clothing may be the way to go for people who are just learning to ski. By renting ski equipment and clothing, people don't have a lot of unused clothing and equipment in their closets or garages.

Speaking of skiing equipment, it is very important to find items that fit each skier. Ski boots that are too big or too small make an unpleasant evening after a hard day on the slopes. Ski poles that are too short or too tall will also affect the person's ability to ski well.

In House Instructors

Most ski resorts provide in house instructors. This is great for novice skiers for several reasons. the ski instructor is going to know the slopes the lodge provides and know the equipment as well.

Actual ski instructors is a great way for people just trying out the sport of skiing to learn. In today's cyber world, we can learn how to do just about anything, but we actually experience the real thing when learning through virtual reality. A real live skiing instructor not only shows the beginning skier how to ski, but teaches the novice skier how to become an expert at skiing.

There are many resources to finding ski rental shops and lodges.

If wanting to learn to ski is one of your New Year's Resolutions is to learn how to ski in 2014, remember it can be as easy as one, two, three. May everyone have a safe and fun winter and skiing season.

Skiing 101: The Rundown - Some Basic Tips You'll Want to Hear Before You Hit the Slopes

If you're anything like me, you want to hop on the ski lift, get to the top, and just go for it! But there are reasons why the beginner lessons begin on the "bunny slopes."

I have never quite been able to forget the time I talked my mother into coming down the double diamond slope with me… Often when children are started on a skill or sport early, it easy for them to pick it up and become good at it. My parents, or mostly my father, started my brother and me very early. My mother was okay at skiing, but I looked back up the hill when we went down the expert run, and I saw her coming down the mountain sitting… on her butt. She was so scared of the incline that she sat down on her skis and road the entire way sitting. It still makes me laugh.

My mother's story notwithstanding, if anyone is trying to start skiing for the first time in adulthood, "I would say go for it." Let me just give you a heads-up on some things that could truly improve your new undertaking:

Get the proper equipment,

Whether you're renting or buying, talk with the retail associates and other employees. Ski boots fit much differently than regular footwear. Try them on, walk around a bit, and ask questions. Wait and see if your feet or legs get tingly. Things should be snug but never restrictive. You should be able to bend to the side and lean forwards and backwards farther than normal. Ski boots are very supportive. Your skis are then adjusted to your boot size.

Ask about ski lengths. There are reasons to have longer or shorter skis, and you should discuss these reasons with experienced and knowledgeable staff.

Pace yourself,

I watched my uncle get to the top of the hill… once. He stubbornly tried over and over and over to stay up, get going, and try and stay close with the rest of our group. He was determined, but by the time he had gotten to the bottom, he was exhausted. He spent the rest of the day sitting in the ski lodge drinking in self-pity.

As with any new activity, you are going to want to pace yourself. If people are going ahead of you, let them. Take frequent breaks. And don't forget to keep breathing! I have the tendency to focus so hard on a task like skiing that I stop and realize that I having been adequately breathing. Remembering to breathe steadily with improve your mental state and prevent unnecessary head-aches.

If you're skiing in high altitudes such as those in the Rockies, give yourself adjustment time. When you get up to the top, hang out for a bit. Chat with your friends, and acclimate to the new height of the world around you. Enjoy the view. You're already going to be trying new things with your body- try and minimize any strain or shock.

Start off on the bunny slope,

Swallow your pride, and practice with the beginners. Take a class. Often, ski resorts will have free beginner's lessons. Take advantage of them. If you do, you will have a much better overall experience on the slopes. Instead of learning from your own mistakes, you can save time by listening to directions. It all may sound very trivial, but not doing these things seems to be the American way. How often does someone join a gym, go at it with all their might (and no directions), and then find themselves "hating" the gym, or even worse- injured.

My favorite exercise they will have you do as a part of these lessons is walk-shuffle to the right and the left, probably up and down a small part of a hill. This helps you get used to maneuvering your new-found, reshaped appendages. It is not easy to walk in skis. It takes practice. Doing these warm-ups will save you snags and hang-ups at the ski lifts and generally improve your early skiing adventures.

Most IMPORTANT of all,

If you see danger in your path, FALL. Literally throw yourself to the ground; fall to the side. This can save you from injury, embarrassment, and even death. When in doubt, fall.

And HAVE FUN,

I have seen people get so determined to become a great skier in one day that they end up having a miserable time! If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a second to laugh at yourself. This is supposed to be an enjoyable activity.

Oh yeah, and don't forget… You can always follow my mother's example and just sit down and enjoy the ride.

Skiing Tips for Beginners

Gliding through a mountain, on fresh powder with the beautiful but barley glistening sun on your face, is a feeling like no other. Learning to ski can be awkward and exhausting on the body. Boots pushing you forward, but the weight of the skis pushing you backward. Here are some tips for beginner skiers, to help avoid common mistakes many make, I know I did.

1. Stance 

Balancing when learning to ski can be hard, boots push forward and weighty skis push you backward. Skiing should be effortless, not exhausting so try finding a stance that feels as no work is being done, but is also firm and stable. This allows maneuvering down the mountain and stopping when needed easily. Cant figure it out, try bending your knees, this often centers your weight over the skis. Many skiers make the mistake of locking their legs up this takes away from their balance, agility, and control.

2. Beginners Trail 

It's important to start out on the trail designated to your skill level. Theses trails are outlined by shaped colored pistes a green circle means beginner, blue squares are for novice, and black diamond's single or double are the most difficult trails for experts only.

3. Driving Rule 

Just like driving a car, always look straight ahead at the trail, about ten feet in front of you, is the general amount recommended.

4. Don't Be Afraid to Fall 

What doesn't kill us only make us stronger, and that is the case when it comes to skiing. Falling is just part of the sport and learning process, so don't walk on eggshells when it comes to learning. Practice not falling forward or backward but to your side to prevent injuries.

5. Learning 

The key to becoming a pro at skiing is practice and patience, which means it takes time, so don't get frustrated when it's not coming as easily as you wish. Try to get lessons from a professional instructor and not a loved one or friend. That is how many people develop bad skiing habits.

6. Dress for Success 

The snow is freezing especially when falling in it. Try to rent or buy the following clothes: Gloves, beanie, thermal pants, thermal shirt, sunglasses for sun, goggles for clouds, snow pants, and jacket.

7. Enjoy Yourself 

The most important tip of all is to enjoy yourself, remember the reason why you're learning to ski.

With These Tips Beginner Skiers Can Have a Lot of Fun

Here are a few simple tips for beginner snow skiers. Use the sharp side edges of the skis to guide you. Position your skis like a snowplow: the tips should be close together and the heels far apart. As you go down the hill lean to the outside of the intended turn. Again, use your edges. To continue in a straight line, while in the snowplow position, just equalize your weight between the skis. To stop, simply spread your heels further apart.

Once you learn to ride the lifts, the rest is easy

Right away, I became fearful of the T-Bar. Why do the novice slopes seem to have lifts that require expert skill? The T-Bar is an arrangement that pulls the skier along a path by a bar. The middle of the bar has a stem extending from it to form a T. The self-retracting reels are spaced along the cable so that the unoccupied bars hang along a rotating bicycle chain between the pulleys at the top and the bottom of the slope.

How to handle the ride up the hill.

It seems easy enough. Two people ski over to where the attendant is. They line up, so they are pointing towards the uphill path, and wait for the attendant to grab the overhead T-Bar. He will hand it to one of you while the cable is reeling out of the spool overhead. There are about 5 seconds to place the bar just across your lower butts, with the rod that forms the stem of the T placed between the two of you. That is when both of you blast off at the seemingly Ludicrous speed of a slow bicycle along a path that seemed to be narrower than some snowboards.

Common errors 

The biggest mistake here is that some people think that they can sit on the T-Bar. This is the reason why most of the calamities are at the starting point. This usually leads to the bar rotating in an ark towards the ground where the skier lands but the T-bar does not stop. It follows along the back of the skier's legs, hooks the skis like a meat cleaver and drags the hapless skier along the path. Bound by some code, the attendants must stop the lift. Otherwise, the skier's body will smudge the nifty ruts that guide the skis up the hill.

Skiing is easy; the lifts are hard. Seriously, the attendants have seen it all. Just tell them that you are new to this, and they will explain everything much better than I did.