Whats Skiing?

ABOUT SKIING
There are many different types of skiing which are popular, especially in colder climates. In skiing's traditional core regions in the snowy parts of Scandinavia, as well as in places such as Alaska, both recreational and competitive skiing is as likely to refer to cross country skiing as to the more well known downhill skiing.

There are now many types of competitive skiing events that are recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International Ski Federation (FIS), and other sporting organizations. Skiing is most visible to the public during the Winter Olympic Games where it is a major sport.

When skiing is mentioned it conjures up the image of the recreational downhill skiing where you are propelled downhill by gravity, usually along a marked run known as a piste. Ski routes are referred to as runs, trails, or slopes. Off piste riding, also known as back-country skiing, includes unmarked areas within the ski resorts boundaries, frequently amongst trees (glade skiing) or usually in pursuit of fresh fallen snow known as powder. Skiing or snowboarding beyond the ski resorts boundaries is illegal in most countries, due to the danger of avalanches or the cost of search and rescue for lost or overdue skiers. France is one of the few countries with no restrictions against off piste skiing.

The skiing technique is difficult to master, and accordingly there are ski schools that teach everything from the basics of turning and stopping safely to more advanced carving, racing, mogul or "bump" skiing and newer freestyle techniques. The venue, speed and technical difficulty associated with the sport can lead to collisions, accidents, hypothermia and other serious injury or illness, including death. Regional Ski Patrol organizations such as the National Ski Patrol in the U.S. exist as a voluntary organization to provide guidance, help, medical assistance and emergency rescue to those in need of it.

Many non skiers wonder why skiers are willing to risk such injury. Skiers have a variety of answers to this question but a common explanation is that it simply feels good. It's rather like flying and that when done carefully poses no greater risk of injury compared to other sports. Of course, there is some aspect of danger but that is part of the appeal. Skiing is the fastest means of land transport possible without mechanical assistance. Many skiers have had experiences where they have achieved a union of the mind and the body by practicing this sport, where the mind trusts the body to perform in an exceptional manner and the body trusts the mind not to lead it off a cliff!