Skiing is a moving prayer. Everything melts away and it is as if you are one with nature, nothing else exists, you are hyper-aware, in a state of flow, as if elevated to some divine cosmos. Anyone who has ever tried skiing will tell you that there is nothing more transcendental than skiing. As interest in skiing has risen, and investment poured in, new forms of skiing, such as freeskiing, have emerged. Skiing has become richer, offering a more artistic and interpretive side of the sport over the years. If skiing sounds like something you want to do, then this is the article that will tell you how to get started.
The Kinds of Freestyle Skiing
Broadly speaking, there are three types of freestyle skiing: slopestyle, half-pipe and big air.
Slopestyle refers to skiing over an obstacle course. Across all those obstacles, to get scored, you have to perform tricks and have a clear run to the boom.
In half-pipe skiing, athletes wear snow skis and perform tricks while riding a half-pipe. A half-pipe is made of snow, and is about 22 feet tall. Athletes will go from wall to wall performing tricks on this iconic ski-scape.
Big air skiing makes its debut at the Winter Olympics this February. Skiers slide down a 60-foot high ramp that tilts up at the top and vaults them into the sky, where they perform gravity-defying tricks. The more rotations and tricks a skier can perform, the more points earned.
Freeskiing goes beyond these types. It’s about expressing yourself on skis. So although there are specific forms of freeskiing, the ultimate aim is expression and so, you can freeski in whatever way you feel comfortable. Your comfort is paramount.
Where To Go and Ski
When people think of skiing, one of the strongest associations they make is with the Alps or some other mountainous, snowy area. For many people, going to the Alps is beyond them. That isn’t a barrier to skiing. Many people ski on dry slopes, for instance. You can find artificial slopes and ski centres in most major cities.
Use the Right Skis
Many people use recreational skis with a flat tail, but if you’re going freeskiing, you need skis with a twin tip, which will allow you to go backwards while skiing.
Freeskiing poles are shorter than other poles, so that your chances of getting your poles tangled between your legs are reduced.
Stay Safe
Safety is of paramount importance. Accidents do happen, even with the most experienced skiers, so you should try and minimise your risks, because the consequences of an accident can be quite high.
Get the right gear. That includes a helmet to protect your head in the event of a fall.
You want to freeski in ways that make you feel comfortable. Avoid taking risks that are beyond your skill level. The point is not to risk your life or health, but to express yourself and feel joy.
Get Advice
Before taking a ski trip, you should seek skiing advice so that you are prepared for the course you are going to, understand the risks that you are taking, and so that your skill level is at the right level. All across the country, there are freestyle academies, skateparks, and other places where you can train and get help and get prepared for any ski trip, so that you arrive in the best possible condition. With the right advice, you will be able to try more things, such as skiing backwards, going on a trampoline, and doing new tricks, that will make your trip a success, while keeping you safe from harm.
