The air is cold and the sun has just risen, still casting long shadows of trees upon the freshly groomed ski slopes.  While waiting for the first chairlift ride and ski run, it is important to check in with your equipment and your body.  That body may feel stiff from a previous ski day, or loose and excited for the thrill of going downhill and harnessing speedy control of gravity. 

When we take a deep breath of fresh air, our nose hairs freeze slightly and the cold crisp air soothes the inside of our lungs.  This is what skiing is all about. During the first chairlift ride, the tingles are hopefully of excitement and not boots that are too tight on your toes. Having comfortable fitting ski or snowboard boots is imperative.  

While sliding off of the chairlift onto the squeaky cold snow for the first run of the day, excitement takes over.  It’s hard to remember that we’re in it for the long haul and not the sprint. Taking the first ski run of the day or season is so much fun, but it is good to take it easy, or slower than one’s full ability, then work up to a controllable faster speed as the body warms up to the movements of skiing or snowboarding.  

The amount of torque skis can put on our knees and hips is much greater than in most persons’ typical movements throughout the day. That is the main reason why leg injuries are so common in skiing. Helmets are also recommended when skiing to prevent concussions and save lives. I likely would not be here writing if I hadn’t been wearing a helmet throughout the years of my own ski endeavors.   

I don’t say this to scare one from getting out on the slopes, just to be properly prepared. Also, life’s too short to be cold, so overdress when it’s cold so that staying warm is not a problem. However, if it is above 28 degrees Fahrenheit, most folks will not need too many layers, as the physical exertion of skiing itself will likely keep the body warm throughout a ski outing.   

If one is new to skiing, a lesson is well worth the price. Also, kids will learn better from an instructor than from their parents, trust me. Be sure to tip a ski instructor, as they work hard in the cold and the elements. 

Skiing is a fun way to get exercise during the winter months. It is an adrenaline-filled sport that the most even-keeled people can enjoy. It gives one a sense of freedom and physical control that we don’t experience in many other avenues of life. So if one is looking to get back into skiing, or try something new this winter, I highly suggest an outing at a local ski mountain. It is a nice way to pass the cold winter days and enjoy time with family and friends.  

My name is Evan Padua, I was born in Narrowsburg, NY and am happy to write this new column for the River Reporter.  It will be focused on outdoor topics and recreation.  Getting outside is great for our health and wellness as humans. I also run a fishing guide business on the Delaware River called Sweetwater Guide Service LLC.