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Posts Tagged ‘Slopes’

My Snowboarding Hotel

January 12th, 2010
snowboard tips
Jasmine Stone asked:


I always loved snowboarding for as long as I can remember. I love the way that snow boarding is a sport that is filled with excitement and personality. I also loved the way that snow boarding was seen as a kind of extreme sport. It made me feel almost proud of myself that I was associated with this status. When I firstly hit the slopes and tried snowboarding it was actually a very new sport at the time, and had not even nearly been in the Olympics.

However, as the trend increased the slopes started to change its ratio of skiing to snowboarding. That is why I wanted to start a business that could benefit from this; I decided on starting a hotel in France that was actually targeting the snowboarders rather than the skiers. You see, the snow boarder and the skier are two very different kind of holiday maker. A snow boarder is more likely to be interested in having a great time, and socialising with younger people, whilst a skier may be away as part of a family vacation.

However, I realised that my business was going to be a risky venture because at the same time as I started it, I was scared that snowboarding might not take off in the way that it has. I mean - did you know that know 22% of winter sports competitors are snowboarders? That is an amazing statistic and one that really indicates the kind of thing that I am talking about. Snow boarding is a massive sport, and I actually do not think there has been any other sport in the history of the world that has seen such success in such a short period of time.

I should say the success of my hotel has been enormous, because I have been warm and comforting to the snowboarders, showing knowledge on the slopes and snowboarding in general. I am able to tell them what I would do, and give them some hot tips that have been passed on to me from hundreds and hundreds of snow boarders through my hotel.

One of the things that I love the most is the way that everyone is always having a good time, and that can reflect on my mood. When everyone in the hotel is enjoying themselves and having a good time, it is easier for me to sit back and have a good time as well. It really is that simple.

I am always asked by the snowboarders if I go on the slopes myself, and I always have to say no, almost appearing like I am a kind of half-interested snowboarder. I almost feel my head dropping as I say it. However, the reason for this is that nowadays, I honestly very rarely have any spare time, and it is the sad part of having my own business. My wife always offers to cover, but when she does I always see it as a great opportunity to go down the bank, or do something like catch up with the paper work.

When I think about how busy I am I always just stop and think about how lucky I am to have a successful business, and a comfortable living - however my passion for snowboarding that gave me the kick start to get the business underway has now gone.



michro01 Sports And Fitness , ,

Snowboarding Advice For Beginners

January 10th, 2010
snowboard tips
Alan Richardson asked:


If you are interested in taking up a new hobby, and you enjoy thrilling, fast paced action, why not consider snowboarding? Increasing in popularity year on year, snowboarding has always been highly fashionable, and is no more accessible than ever, so you really have no excuse for not giving it a go if you are interested. In this article we will look at the equipment you will need, where to get started, and the things to watch out for when snowboarding.

First thing’s first - get yourself online. Look around, and find out exactly what snowboarding involves. It is a dangerous game, and highly physically taxing. Additionally, it can be quite expensive, so you need to try to ensure it’s right for you. Next you need to look for a board to get you started, and some clothing for wearing on the slopes. First off, forget about buying a top quality board. You need to start off with something cheap and cheerful, designed for beginners. You can find these easily online, and you may also be able to come across some models in your local extreme sports shop. Alternatively, you could try to pick one up second hand from a friend, or from another snowboarder. You also want to make sure you look cool whilst your out there! Check out some of the highly fashionable snowboarding wear, and kit yourself out from hats, to sunglasses to thick socks - make sure you’re prepared for the elements before you set off.

It is worth looking around to find lessons in your local area. Lessons range in availability, quality and price, although you will often find recommendations or local adverts particularly helpful. Again you could look online for some tips to get you on your way. If you do take lessons, it is important to take on board what the instructor says from both a performance and safety perspective. Additionally, get out there and practice between lessons if you ever want to improve. If you stick at it, and work hard, you will eventually see an improvement, and find the sport significantly more enjoyable also.

It is also good to note that snowboarding is a highly dangerous activity and people do get hurt. Before you even think about snowboarding, take some lessons in safety, and make sure you are fully equipped both mentally and physically for avoiding injury to yourself and others. Snowboarding is responsible for many accidents every year, and it is an extreme sport after all - if you’re of a weak disposition, it is perhaps not the best sport for you. Having said that, snowboarding can easily be performed safely with a bit of common sense, and a bit of research, so make sure you’re prepared before you get out there.

Warnings aside, snowboarding is great fun, if you like this sort of thing. Many people adopt the mantra that you should try everything at least once, and as far as snowboarding is concerned, this is definitely true. Try snowboarding once, and join the legions of followers who enjoy snowboarding at every opportunity. Chances are there are clubs and associations in your local town, so get yourself along and join in with like minded people. Your level of experience doesn’t matter, as long as you go along and participate, you will gain a lot from it, and you will definitely have a good time in the process.



michro01 Sports And Fitness , ,

Learning How To Ski And Snowboard Tips

May 12th, 2009
snowboarding tips
Jane Worthington asked:


Skiing and snowboarding is an incredibly fun recreational sport. It is something that is on the more expensive side but it is a great family vacation or a weekend away with friends once every few years. If you have never been skiing or snowboarding before but you are ready to try it out with your more experienced friends, then you are in for some fun and for some bruises. The most important thing to remember is that everyone struggles with it the first few days no matter how gifted an athlete you are. Just do not give up on it on day one. As tempting as it might be to sit in a whirlpool tub the entire rest of your vacation, you should really give it a second try. Once you give it a few days, you will be feeling more comfortable in no time!

The most important tip is that you should take a lesson from a professional instructor on the mountain. No matter how great your friends or spouse is, it is much less frustrating for everyone if you take a few hours of lessons from someone trained to teach skiing or snowboarding. You also need the right equipment. Explain to the employees at the equipment rental shop that you are just starting out. They will make sure that they provide you will the perfect beginner’s boots and skis/ snowboard.

Take it slow the first day. Even though you might be surrounded by five-year-olds on the “bunny” slope, you need to build a foundation first. Once you do, you will be ready to tackle the bigger slopes with ease and confidence!  First, however, expect to spend quite a bit of time on your behind before you figure out how to balance yourself properly. It takes some getting used to but it will be worth all the work!

At the end of the day out in the cold snow, nothing feels better than a walk in bath or shower. Your frozen fingers finally have the opportunity to thaw out and your sore muscles will love the relaxing warm water. Even though it might be hard to motivate yourself to get out there again on day two or day three, it will definitely be worth it in the end!



michro01 Bath Showers , ,

Avoiding Common Snowboarding Injuries

May 10th, 2009
cheap snowboards
Jasmine Stone asked:


Snowboarding is a fun sport to undertake but it has its risks that you need to be aware of. Nothing would suck more that returning from a snowboarding trip with a broken leg or sprained wrist. There are a number of broad safety measures you can follow to diminish your danger of a snowboarding injury that we will discuss.

Make sure you’re in shape to ski. Organize for your winter sports trip with a training programmed to progress core stability and muscle. Endurance and leg strength is predominantly vital to lend a hand in preventing injuries.

Wear suitable layers of clothing, that don’t confine your movement. You do not want to be all bulked up and unable to move freely. If you cannot move then you cannot snowboard properly and the entire thrill aspect is gone.

Just like any other sporting activity, warm up and cool down. Before you hit the slopes take some time warming up and stretching to help train your body for action.

The top injury that a majority of the snowboarders receive is a wrist injury. Falls are more frequent during snowboarding. The natural response to a fall is to stretch out a hand to break the fall, and falls tend to occur more often in beginners. For this reason Colles fractures Scaphoid and fractures of the wrist are a relatively common feature, with around 100,000 wrist fractures worldwide among snowboarders each year. Snowboarders should wear wrist guards as they significantly reduce the incidence of wrist injuries during falls. Another common injury is head injuries which can lead to serious conclusions. Helmets are effective in reducing the incidence of minor concussions during low velocity collisions. Be sure to grab both of these when you do your shopping for snowboarding.

You may think this will save you money, but in the end it may cost u thousands in hospital bills. Don’t borrow equipment from friends; it significantly increases your risk of injury. If you are hiring equipment make sure you hire from a recommended store. Ensure that all the equipment fits properly. This will help avoid serious injuries and unnecessary falls due to non fitting equipment.

Another good tip is Use ‘multi-mode’ release bindings if possible. The superior release available in modern bindings is just one factor that has helped prevent injuries. Rear release boots can significantly reduce the risk of ACL injury.

Self-test your bindings every day. Self testing of bindings is simple. Step into the binding and then twist to the side to release the toe-piece under the control mechanism. The heel can be tested by stepping into the binding and leaning forward, to release the heel-piece. Both the toe and heel should be able to release if properly adjusted.

The Final Suggestion is to follow the FIS Rules for Conduct in Winter Sports.

1. Respect for others

A skier or snowboarder must behave in such a way that he does not endanger or prejudice others.

2. Control of speed and skiing or snowboarding

A skier or snowboarder must move in control. He must adapt his speed and manner of skiing or snowboarding to his personal ability and to the prevailing conditions of terrain, snow and weather as well as to the density of traffic.

3. Choice of route

A skier or snowboarder coming from behind must choose his route in such a way that he does not endanger skiers or snowboarders ahead.

4. Overtaking

A skier or snowboarder may overtake another skier or snowboarder above or below and to the right or to the left provided that he leaves enough space for the overtaken skier or snowboarder to make any voluntary or involuntary movement.

5. Entering, starting and moving upwards

A skier or snowboarder entering a marked run, starting again after stopping or moving upwards on the slopes must look up and down the slopes that he can do so without endangering himself or others.

6. Stopping on the piste

Unless it is absolutely necessary, a skier or snowboarder must avoid stopping on the piste in narrow places or where visibility is restricted. After a fall in such a place, a skier or snowboarder must move clear of the piste as soon as possible.

7. Climbing and descending on foot

A skier or snowboarder either climbing or descending on foot must keep to the side of the piste.

8. Respect for signs and markings

A skier or snowboarder must respect all signs and markings.

9. Assistance

At accidents, every skier or snowboarder is duty bound to assist.

10. Identification

Every skier or snowboarder and witness, whether a responsible party or not, must exchange names and addresses following an accident.

With all these tips that have been shared with you, I hope you learned something and will have a very safe trip. Come home in one piece and start planning the next.



michro01 Sports And Fitness , ,

Learn to Stay Safe While on your Snowboard

May 9th, 2009
snowboarding tips
Jason Stepp asked:


Snowboarding is meant to be a pleasurable hobby, in result, a lot of participants regretfully forget about safety. It Doesnt matter how much time that you have on the board, if you do not continuously keep safety in mind, one of these times, you are going to get hurt

I have researched a few snowboard safety tips that will help impede major injuries while snowboarding.

Inspect Your Board

It is very important that you thoroughly check your board before you jump on it. Check for any cracks or anything that could possibly cause your board to malfunction. It is also important to make sure that you have chosen the right board for you. If you need some help with that, read my resource box for a guide to help you in choosing a board size. Don’t forget to ensure that your boarding shoes are being held securely.

It probably will not take too long to do a short inspection of your board. Keep in mind… the only thing helping you stay on top of the snow is the board! Ensure that it completely passes your check. If you are completely unsure of what to check for, ask someone! The snowboarding community is a very helpful and friendly community!

Choosing the right snowboard clothing and equipment

If there is one thing that really urks me, its when I notice people trading safety for style. I mean…some parts of snowboarding revolve around style and looking good, but do not trade safety for style!

When picking goggles, try not to go by what has the best design, instead, you should go by which ensures the best protection! The sun could literally blind you when you are on the slopes if you do not have good enough eye protection. Ensure the glasses or goggles that you decide on have a sufficient UV ray protection rating.

Another important thing to think about when considering snowboard safety is to remember that THE SNOW IS COLD. I definitely suggest that you wear a few layers. Im sure you have heard this a lot before, but it is highly important. If you are too hot, shed a layer of clothes, that way you slightly cool down, but not too much. When you feel yourself start to get cold again, you can just put that other layer of clothes back on! This really worked great for me while I was in the Army. I never understood the importance of dressing in layers until I spent my my first 7 days in the woods in very cold weather conditions.

When picking out gloves, choose something that is water proof. Again, because I was in the Army, I invested in some very effective gloves. I would recommend that you purchase some seal skin gloves. They were developed with the Navy Seals in mind. They work wonders for poor weather conditions- and they are great for snowboarding. You should be able to buy a pair at Ranger Joes- Use your favorite search engine to find Ranger Joes, they have a lot of nice gloves that will keep your hands warm.

Stay Hydrated and Keep Food In Your Stomach

A lot of people fail to realize that even when it is cold, it is still really important to keep drinking water. I was a witness to someone who dehydrated in freezing weather conditions. It was not a pretty sight. Water is your bodies fuel- along with food- and without it, your body will not be able to operate correctly! When you are snowboarding, remember to take water breaks. You will definitely regret it if you fail to that advise.

I know how difficult it is to pull yourself away from your board, but make sure that you eat a very good breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially when you are considering to take part in physical activities. I also recommend eating a tiny. It wouldn’t hurt to bring more food than you need too, because you never know if somebody is going to get injured. You should always prepare for the unexpected!

I hope that you got something out of this article. Snowboarding is expected to be all fun and games, but it wont be much of a good time if someone gets injured! If you follow the proper snowboarding safety procedures, you will really enjoy yourself!



michro01 Extreme Sports , ,

Want to Begin Snowboarding Here Are Things You Should Know

May 8th, 2009
snowboarding tips
Ellie asked:


ing has quickly become one of the most popular winter sports, drawing fans from all over the world. If you have ever wanted to know how to get started in this exciting sport, here are a few snowboard tips to get you started.

The first snowboard tip you need to know is getting the right equipment. Make sure you talk to a professional about choosing the right type of board to work for you and go over how to get your boots into your bindings and how to get the right fit. Know not only how to get on your board but how to get off of it safely as well. Ensure you are wearing the recommended safety equipment, don\’t take any chances, safety comes first.

Snowboarding takes balance and strength. Similar to surfing, you need to be able to keep your body steady and maintain control in your movements. You need strength in your upper legs and your core. Learn how slight movements in your body can turn your board. Learn how to fall without getting hurt. Typically you want to fall on your behind in a sitting position so that you have the most control and have something easy to fall on. It\’s also much easier to get back up and you will cause your body less harm when you do fall.

One of the most important snowboard tips is to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. It is easy to go off course and get lost. Stay in designated areas. If you board with a buddy you are even better off!

Don\’t be afraid to try out the easier slopes while you are getting the hang of the movement and feeling. Don\’t be afraid to fall a few times. If you can overcome that fear you are golden! The best way to face the unknown is to practice in a controlled setting. Whatever you do, don\’t feel that you need to start on one of the more advanced slopes or run straight for the rails. Take your time to get the experience you need before moving up to the hard stuff.

If you follow these tips and take a few lessons, you will be on your way to the experience of a lifetime!!

michro01 Fitness , ,