Winter is here and winter sports are a great way to get outdoors even in the cold weather. The sport of downhill skiing combines skill and thrill, in an activity that has evolved out of centuries-old human ingenuity. Today, skiing can be enjoyed at all levels from novice to competitive. For those less inclined to hit the slopes, cross country skiing is a terrific activity for covering snow covered trails.
A History of Skiing
It is thought that skiing evolved in paleolithic times alongside snow shoes as human adaptations to intense winter conditions. Paleolithic art from the last Ice Age has been found depicting human figures with ski-like attachments to their feet. Based on this, the origins of skiing are thought to be around 22,000 years old.
Physical artifacts of skis date back to around 8,000 years ago to when partial remains of wooden ski-like objects have been uncovered in Russia. Skiing first was developed as a way to efficiently traverse snow and ice. Widespread use of ancient skis has been shown throughout ancient Europe and Asia while on the north american continent wide snow shoes were developed to fill this role.
The road to skiing as a sport is a long one that intersects with military history. In the mid-1700s the Norwegian army began staging contests of downhill skiing skill, ranking soldiers for speed and finesse at avoiding obstacles. These downhill ski races continued to refine themselves until downhill skiing emerged as the sport we know today.
Skiing Is For Everyone
If you have always wanted to learn to ski- winter is the time to learn! Skiing experiences exist for all levels -from absolute beginner to competitive pro. Learning to ski may seem daunting, but starting with formal lessons is a great way to set out on the right foot. A ski instructor will help you develop the right form and acquaint you with the basic mechanic of skis which can be counterintuitive at first.
Posture for skiing probably won’t feel natural at first- balancing on skis is quite different from walking or running. You’ll want to keep your head up and your knees bent. Even if your intuition is to watch your ski tips, a heads up approach is what will actually help you direct your actions more fluidly.
In addition to beginner instruction, you’ll also want to make sure you have the right equipment. Properly fitting ski boots and skis are a must, as are snowpants. Part of learning to ski will be falling, and you’ll appreciate pants that keep you warm and dry even if you get covered in snow.
Finally, if skiing is new to you, progressively learn on beginner terrain. Ski slopes are ranked according to steepness. “Green circle” slopes are the gentlest slopes to ski and have a grade between 6% and 25%. Intermediate slopes are classified as “blue square” and have a grade between 26% and 40%. Above 40% grade, slopes are categorized as “black diamond”.
Especially challenging black diamond ski areas may be designated “double black diamond”. Take ski slope rankings seriously and learn progressively. Many black diamond slopes will present challenges that could result in serious injuries if attempted by a novice skier.
Close To Home
For residents of Lake Carroll, skiing and tubing are just minutes away at the Lake Carroll Ski Hill and Tube Hill. When open, the Lake Carroll ski hill is a great place to learn to ski, practice your moves or watch the kids tackle the tube hill. Winter festivities also happen throughout the season at the Plumtree Lodge.
For those looking for winter recreation, a winter trail loop is open for cross country skiing. Miles of trailsin the surrounding countryside are open to ATV and snowmobile adventurers. Lake Carroll also has an active ice fishing community to enjoy the bounty of the lake year-round.
When you are ready to find your home in Lake Carroll, reach out to Fawnridge Realty. We know Lake Carroll like nobody else and can help you locate the home of your dreams in this active community with tons of amenities.