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Tuesday, September 16, 2008

To Ski or to Snowboard on the Breckenridge Slopes?


To Ski or to Snowboard on the Breckenridge Slopes?

Want to Ski or Snowboard? Breckenridge, Colorado is the best place to go.
Preparing for a trip to the winter wonderland of Breckenridge, Colorado can only mean one thing: you will be spending some time in the snow. If you are new to skiing or snowboarding, it may be a tough call on which activity to try. While Breckenridge is a prime spot for both activities, there are a few things to consider to help you choose the right one for you.

The Logistics. If you haven’t tried either activity, it would be a good idea to first check out the equipment and see which feels more comfortable to you. Skis attach onto a pair of bindings that connect to your boots, while snowboarders are secured onto their board with their bindings. Both setups can make you feel uncomfortable at first, so you should spend some time getting used to the equipment before testing it out in the snow.

What's in a Pole? Skiers use a pair of poles for both balance and support while standing or going down the slopes. Snowboarders must rely on balance alone, a position themselves accordingly for direction. The absence of poles can also mean more of an effort picking yourself up if and when you fall. Either way, be ready to spend some time in the snow.

Body Injuries. While both sports are able to produce injuries, they can take a toll on different parts of the body. Skiing is harder on the knees that snowboarding, so if you already have bad knees, it would be wise to try out snowboarding. On the other hand, snowboarding can cause more injury to wrists, as these are usually the main part of the body used to break your fall. While you can expect some falls with both skiing and snowboarding, snowboarding can be harder on the backside, not to mention the rest of the body. Be prepared to use muscles you never knew existed!

The Powder Factor. The type of snow is also an import factor. Most ski areas, like Breckenridge have both smooth, fresh power and more ice-covered, bumpy terrain. Snowboards are easier to maneuver on powdered snow, while skis glide easier over icy spots. While learning on powder is also easier, take into consideration your long term plans, as well as time of season and weather conditions of the ski area.

The Need for Speed. While snowboarding often comes across as a speed sport, skiing at the same level can usually be faster. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, take this into consideration. Whether you try skiing or snowboarding during your stay at Breckenridge, be sure to prepare yourself before hitting the slopes. Put on sunscreen, as well as lip balm to protect your skin. Keep hydrated throughout the day. Both activities are great forms of exercise, so be sure and stretch your muscles beforehand. When it’s time for a break, relax at your lodge or condo.

The most important tip of all-have fun. Realize you won’t be Olympic material overnight, and be prepared to take some bumps and bruises. But all it takes is practice and a bit of patience, and you will be ready for the black diamond runs in no time.Breckenridge, Colorado
By Chris Cook

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