Archive for June, 2009

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 29

Is it me or all these paintball guns you see on the fields lately all looking the same nowadays?  Have you laid eyes on these military style paintball guns yet?  Hold on, lemme back up about 15 years or so.  I remember back in the early ’90s as a high schooler, me and my nerdy buddies would get together on weekends and head on down to the local indoor paintball field with our Tracer pump-action guns and play all day long, both days of the weekend.  The sport has changed dramatically since those days, both in price and the caliber (no pun intended) of the playing equipment.  Heck, they even have their own “lingo” these days.

     But the markers (guns), oh my god.  These things are crazy.  RAP4.com has the most unbelievable evolution of paintball guns I have ever seen.  I’ve seen some of these crazy “home grown” guns, but the military style paintball markers on this site are as close to the real thing as you can get.  They’ve got everything you could want for the look and feel of real weapons systems.  I can’t name them all, but they’ve got AK-47’s, MP-5s, M-4s, a huge selection of replica handguns.  All are available in .68 caliber, and alot of them are available in the smaller .43 caliber.  The really cool thing about the “assault rifles” is that the air tanks can be incorporated into the butt-stock for a completely authentic look, and are available in magazine-fed set up.  Talk about a rig!  They are constructed of metal to simulate the look and functionality of the military duty weapon.  All are customizable with accessory rails where you can add sights, scopes, flashlights, and red-dot laser sights.  Interested yet?  Read on.

     So far I’ve only mentioned the military style paintball guns.  Oh, I forgot, they also make the Browning .30 cal machine gun, and the SAW 249.  I was floored when I saw those things.  Shoot someone with paint?  You could paint a barn with those!  But anyway, not only do they have guns, they also have hand grenades.  Land-mines your thing?  Claymores?  They got ‘em.  All 1:1 scale and 100% aesthetically real looking.  Projectiles are a blast (again, no pun intended) and they’ve got those too.  Imagine a paintball RPG.   I laugh every time  I even say it.  It’s just so cool. 

     All of RAP4.com’s stuff doesn’t go bang, and they offer much more than military style paintball markers.  In fact, alot of the stuff is made for stealth.  Whether playing paintball or training police, military, or security personnel, communication is key.  Enter the Navy Seal throat mic system.  It’s exactly what you think of when you hear it.  And that little hunnie comes with a remote PTT switch you can run down your arm and to your weapon, so you can stay ready while communicating.  A complete line of clothing, holsters, slings, leg and arm pouches, all in camo or black for whatever environment you’re playing or training in.  Face paint, Ghillie (or however you spell it) suits.  I’m telling you, they have everything.  If it’s related to paintball and it’s tactical, RAP4.com has it. 

As always, safety is paramount.  Don’t forget to use your barrel plugs and face protection.  Even though paintball is a recreational sport, muzzle discipline around others is something you should strive for perfection with.  Never expose your marker unless in the proper environment.  All it takes is an overly concerned citizen and a call to the police and disaster could happen.  Have fun, use your brain, and stay safe.  Click the link for an eye opening reveal of these stunningly real military style paintball guns and markers.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/military-style-paintball-guns-military-style-paintball-markers-996959.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 29

 

Maybe you’re a skateboarder who thinks your friend should learn to skateboard, maybe you’re a parent who wants to encourage your child to try out a sport and skateboarding is one option, or maybe you’re just trying to convince yourself that skateboarding would be worth your time. Well, whatever the case is – here are a list of reasons listing out why skateboarding is worth a shot but also worth the pain and time invested.
 
1. Its something new to try
This may seem too simple a reason but a lot of times people want to try something new and interesting. They want to find something that can challenge their ability or skills. If that describes you or anybody you can think of, then skateboarding is the perfect choice. It is a unique sport (And no, surfing doesn’t cont because you can only surf on ocean waves.) that many people have yet to try though it has gained plenty of popularity in recent years. Not only will it provide you with a challenge to learn something new, it will ensure your brain stays active (as anything new will). Plus, when it comes to skateboarding – there is always something new to try, be it a different ramp, trick or skill.
 
2. Helps you stay fit
Yes, it seems contrary when you think of all the ways a person can get hurt when learning to skateboard or trying to do a trick when they are more advanced. But despite the scraps you will probably get from falls and tumbles, skateboarding does provide a person a unique way to becoming more fit. First of all, the main part of skateboarding is achieving balance at all times so your core will gain strength. It is also an excellent workout for your legs. Also, it is not hard to work up a sweat when skateboarding as it is a very aerobic ‘exercise’. In most cases, if a person is a constant and avid skateboarder they will be very tough and lean.
 
3. It teaches perseverance and inspires confidence
You may think “Your joking!” but it really isn’t a joke. Trying to learn new skills and tricks, or even creating new tricks, for skateboarders takes a lot of time and patience. Some days, a skateboarder can do a trick with ease yet the next day they just can’t land it. It takes perseverance and patience to see it through until they have truly mastered it. Yet, once they have mastered it, it isn’t just a matter of achieving bragging rights at to their friends (although that is a big plus too!), it inspires confidence in their abilities and strength to achieve something not every other person is able to by just continuously working at it. It teaches a powerful lesson to people which is ‘If you believe in yourself and work at it, you can achieve anything you set out to do’.
 
4. It’s a great way to make new buddies
This is really a no brainer. When you set out to learn something new, especially skateboarding, you will very likely meet a number of new individuals who share your interest. Regardless of your age, once you learn to skateboard you will likely meet other people when you are out at the store buying new parts or at the skatepark where you skateboard. Not to mention, you’ll probably seem more interesting to people who might not skateboard! Talk about opening doors, huh?
 
5. It is just good old fashion fun!
While all the above reasons are plenty for any person to go out and learn to skateboard, all it comes down to in the end is that skateboarding is downright fun! It isn’t fun like reading a book or watching a new TV series, but an adrenaline pumping straight down to your toes sort of fun. This applies each time you learn a new trick, every time you try to nail that ramp the way you imagined, every time you turn the corner. To sum it all up – Skateboarding rocks!

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 26

Muay Thai History 4 sectors.
Thon Buri …. kingship. Continued to the early Rattanakosin Siamese nation is united and more territory and the earth. But steadily Less danger of war in the home of the drill sword fight song that is a major national art. Generally, people pay attention and focus on learning. Anti-martial arts fight Bureau Bureau has a sword in Maharashtra even in his palace. Have learning sword pugilism and treatise on war strategy Due course. The only Thai boxing A model using a weapon of organ foot punch elbow knee similar across countries. But to nevertheless With an independent nation. Wisdom and pugilism any branch segment reincarnate exclusion markedly Tha dance and talk Ahwgcro. Format style grilled Tha Tha Wood ruff parent teacher expertise as well as pursuing a hundred will make the expectations twine punch a personalized many Primarily a large share of the region is

North pole …. Tha bun bun bun ???? a modest boxing etc. Zheng mast foot kick boxing is a deft and snappy left and right foot monkey boxing nickname is expected approximately half rope arm.

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Central boxing …. boxing metropolis Lopburi Lopburi style boxing etc. punch line punch in and out quickly highlight the line is expected only to expected about half arms

…. Southern Achya boxing boxing etc. Achya offense characteristics – bold and cautious in the use of hand-to-elbow. The expected string is expected popularity. Wrap around the wrist. Together to be compressed or dislocated.

History …. young boxer from the northern sector 4 “pillar boxing portal” created Thon Buri era name. Since prince sword Pichai less frequently hit by competition. Arena plaza on the ground. Is well-known story of Mr. Ban Tha Sao Mr. exactly good home. Mr. disappointment Road city dry Jasper said Thung Yang Mr. ??? pupil to teacher jasper Year 2472 Mr. Patrick heavenly treat. Uttaradit home from the pier shaft, said the Cambodian death ???? guests expected punch line by making government (reign at age 7) with orders to fight the Thai nation is expected to change from wearing a mitten string.

Isan “Korat boxing” that has saved the prosperous reign era boxer is 3 per aril wide known buffalo jerky. Oakum prepare for fighting and then loop around. Arm and elbow to prevent stretch kick. You include the illustrious nickname Thousand foot hit the break is Mr. Red Thai city of Korat sublime kick serious punch ?? Wonder, famous Another is said to be happy palace of audacious maritime population of Krom Luang Chumphon area of fertile divinity. Tha dance instructors Hnuman ocean to search. (Age 6 to reign).

Central “Lopburi boxing” is known as 5 in the reign of King crematory Department Mru undergrowth ?? Siripen fat belly toilet at his funeral pyre ????? fortress cut Daskr Bangkok is a big hit boxing palace page. Become known as the fight hit punch. Supervision, to break into the place better than boxing. Prepare for fighting a half-sleeve thread calico Teachers as you fight nickname Thousand boxing punch is said exactly roll of currency does not appear in Lop Buri The style of a smart move for the expeditious escape. A good straight punch Best

Southern “boxing Achya” thousand boxing nickname is the name you said chimney desire of gold is the main portal ?????????? a weapon. Focused on the band’s use of the sharp elbow knee boxing history Achya search words virtuous prince to treat drug (Sri attractive drug threat, the prefect Achya 5 broadcast came to earth to reign son is patriarch danger zone, which later moved Sri drugs. locating in Bangkok Published Achya to fight till the pupil many years in 2521.

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/article-4-the-muay-thai-thai-boxing-know-that-it-is-divided-into-4-segments-984403.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 25

Kiteboarding is a great adventure sport where a lot of enthusiasm, zeal and stamina are required. However, it also needs quite a bit of kitesurfing equipment to play it safe and enjoying the activity and so are specified below.

? You must always have the Impact Vests when you are kiteboarding because they are quite a necessity.

? Kites are obviously the key items in kiteboarding. There are many sparingly used kites that come with a warranty that guarantees against problems such as failures.

? You will also need kiteboarding travel bags and accessory backpacks because you will need to take the equipment to the site for kiteboarding.

? The Twin Tip, the Directional or the Hybrid directional and the Wake style are the three different styles in which the kiteboards are available. There are two sections in the Directional variety – the front and the back and they are used for direction, but in the Twin Tip type, there are no such sections and they can thus be steered to any direction, and that too without jibing. Wake style boards can on the other hand go either to the front or the back because they are dual directional kiteboards.

? Also essential for the sport is kitesurfing equipment that includes foot straps, pads and fins.

? Trainer Kites often prove helpful for beginners that have not yet mastered the skills of kiteboarding. The fact is that, those who are beginners need to give as much as 80% of the effort to control the kite because the art of controlling the power source which is the kite needs to be learned.

? Wet suits are needed for keeping the person protected against the chill.

? Another important gear is the harnesses which includes harness spreader bars, nitrous shorts, harness knives, waist harness and seat harness offering you the much needed security and pleasure.

? There are also many types of Kiteboarding Power Kites like the HQ Montana 5.0, the HQ Rush 250 and the HQ Beamer II TSR 3.6.

? The Landboards are great because they offer you new ways in which you can leverage the kite’s power and the board ride.

? Instructional DVDs are not absolute necessities but in most cases a learner of the sport find them most essential because the person is able to learn the sport quickly by going through them.

Your safety should always be of primary importance because if you are not secured, how can you enjoy yourself and this is why you must never compromise on the kitesurfing equipment. So go ahead and get the best equipment, remain safe and you will surely enjoy the sport. If you are a thrill seeker, you will surely have a great time with the adventure sport of kiteboarding. In the earlier days kiteboarding was popular only in the US, but not anymore – now you will find kiteboarders almost everywhere in the world.

http://www.othersideboardsports.com is where you will find the latest kiteboarding equipment. You can also learn more about kiteboarding gear here.

http://www.othersideboardsports.com is where you will find the latest kiteboarding equipment. Plus, you can get more information too about kiteboarding gear at the website.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/kiteboarding-equipment-information-to-help-you-know-the-equipment-you-need-991333.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 24

As most of us are aware baseball is the most popular game in United States and Americans enjoy playing this game. To play the game more frequently and for longer hours, the ideal thing would be to build a backyard baseball field. While it may not be practicable to build a backyard baseball field to scale, you can certainly make one that provides a lot of excitement and fun. To build our own backyard baseball field is not difficult if you can spare the time and have the willingness.

Thoroughly examine your backyard for a space that is rectangular or round in shape. Obviously the bigger the space you can provide, the better will be the baseball field. It will be helpful if you can identify a place in your backyard that is even and without many obstructions, such as rocks, plants or trees. Obtain an approximate measurement of the area you have using measurement tape. This will help you decide the scale of your field. As you are aware, the average baseball field center wall is 400 feet from home plate. If your yard measures 200 feet, you will be required to cut the rest of the measurements in half to build your backyard baseball field.

side-view-pitchingpadUse a protractor and position your home plate in a way that you can read a 90 degree angle as if it were the base of a diamond. The playing area between first base and third base needs to be a perfect right angle of ninety degrees. After marking that spot, using a rope roll it out the length of your backyard on each 90 degree angle. These are essentially your foul lines. If your baseball field is say 200 feet as presumed earlier, then your bases will be at 45 feet. Mark 45 feet from home plate along each rope, using your tape. These are the first and third base respectively. Again using your protractor measure 90 degrees from first and third base, so that the angle is facing out where second base would be. Take more rope and lead from first and third base, on that 90 degree angle until it crosses. This is second base. Finally measure the distance between home plate and second base and in the middle is where you should mark the pitching grip. The only measurement that has to be scrupulously exact is the Little League 46 foot distance from plate to pitchers mound. This is essential for a batter to learn correct timing. All other base placement is arbitrary but it will be nice if you can match the Little League distances as far as possible.

The next step is to cut the grass. In the Major Leagues, there is a difference between the length of the grass in the infield and in the outfield. If you wish your baseball field to be near to the original, then cut the infield grass one inch and the outfield at two inches. This will separate the two and give the field a more realistic appearance. With the aid of your ropes for straight lines, spray paint every place you have marked. This will become the outline of your field. You should also spray paint the foul lines, base paths and pitcher’s mound. Appropriately place your bases which you can find cheaply at any sporting goods stores. You have now completed your own backyard baseball field.

Nisha is a Copywriter of baseball pitching target. She written many articles in various topics.For more information visit:softball pitching techniques.contact she at malar.article@gmail.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/set-up-backyard-to-the-baseball-field-990882.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 24

Paintball is growing by leaps and bounds. It is a great form of exercise that can be loads of fun and involves endurance, tactical strategy, shooting accuracy, and many other skills but can be played by contestants of all skill levels. It can become an expensive hobby but it does not cost much money to get started if you know what you need and where to get it.

First, I do recommend borrowing a gun or renting one before you invest any money. When you do get ready to purchase all you will need is the gun, or marker as it can be called, a mask, and the paintballs. The gun should also have the hopper to hold the paintballs and a CO2 tank or other kind of pressurized air to propel them. You should also get a barrel cleaner and some lubricant to maintain the weapon. Most guns are very easy to take apart and clean. They can usually be taken apart with an allen key and then should be cleaned and oiled. The mask you get depends on you but only needs to cover the whole face. There are some masks that are made for paintball but any thing you have that does the job will suffice to get started. Just make sure you don’t forget the paintballs.

I recommend going with a new gun when you decide to purchase becuase they will come with a manual to break down the gun and usually the key as well which makes things a lot easier. Purchasing a name brand is also the best option as to make sure you are getting something that will last and not give you as many problems. The best option in my view is to go with the Tippman 98 because of it’s price, durabilty, and versatility. You can get one of these in a package that includes everything you need except paintballs for about $150. This gun will last and is easy to operate. It also has numerous kits you can buy to upgrade it to anything from a sniper gun to an AK47 which helps you not get bored with it and can get basically a different gun for very little money. Simply buying a scope and a barrel can also change your weapon for the better for even less.

There are many other things you can get from a full camouflage suit to vests that will carry a backup pistol. All of this means that you can get into a sport that is fun, helps keep you in shape, and requires many different skills to become very good. You will at least be able to enjoy the outdoors, usually, and have the camaraderie of others.

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/getting-started-in-paintball-989835.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 23

A kite surf board is similar to a surfboard or a wakeboard having a platform with straps attached to it to keep the rider steady while a kite, aided by strong wind, pulls him/her through the water at an incredible speed. This sport has however become popular only recently – it first caught the public imagination in the 90’s. Some elements of windsurfing, surfing and wakeboarding can be found in the sport of kiteboarding. Since kiteboarding is an easier sport to learn when you compare this with windsurfing and surfing, you are sure to come across kids who are taking their first attempts after just a lesson or two from a certified trainer. Kiteboard riding involves several other items apart from the board that includes a control bar with lines, a harness, an impact jacket, a helmet (optional) and a sharp knife to cut the line when high wind threatens to play havoc with the sportsperson.

Despite safety measures taken adequately, kiteboarding may sometimes pose hazards. You thus need to seek instructions from a professional because if you do, you will be able to reduce most of these associated risks. From these kiteboarding or kite surfing institutions you will be able to learn about the various skills involved that includes flying, learning to launch the kite, jumping/landing, using the control bar properly, lines and the safety measures too.

Turning is a very common trick in kiteboarding. One basic act done by a trainee is to first put the kite in neutral, sink it back towards the water, and finally turning the kite in the opposite direction and doing it once more. Someone who is an expert however tries the Heel Turn Jibe wherein the kite surf board is slowed down, flattened and then reversed flat on the water by changing position of the back foot and thus making it the front foot. This is naturally a great move because the kite’s direction is reversed and the board’s route swings in a half circle while it is centered on the kite.

But if the kiteboarder fails to manage the move expertly, then the person may fly and fall down because he/she would not be able to bring down the board in the correct angle. Here, safety measure like deadman system is often applied in which there is a sharp knife, which forms part of the kiteboarder’s essential equipment.

If you are someone who wants to lead life the wild side, the kite surf board is sure to satisfy your needs. Kiteboarding is a great sport, but if you want to enjoy it and feel safe too, what you need is proper equipment. This ensured, there is nothing that can prevent you from enjoying kiteboarding.

Find the latest wakeskating equipment at http://www.othersideboardsports.com. Here at the website you will also be able to know more about wakeskating gear.

When you want to get the least in wakeskating equipment, you have to visit http://www.othersideboardsports.com. Here at the website you will also be able to know more about wakeskating gear.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/kite-board-this-is-an-essential-equipment-along-with-a-few-others-that-you-need-to-enjoy-the-sport-984704.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 19

Skiing on your stag weekend

For a taste of the extreme on your stag weekend, why not book a skiing experience for you and your friends? Get strapped in and take to the piste as you await the adrenaline rush of slip sliding down a ski slope wondering if you’ll remember how to stop like the instructor told you. Skiing makes a great activity for stag weekends looking for something fast paced and exciting.

What is skiing?
For those who don’t know, skiing is a popular recreational and professional sport the falls into two categories, Nordic Style and Alpine style skiing. It all depends on how your boot is bound to the ski as to which category it falls in, but for the purpose of a stag weekend skiing adventure you don’t need to know too much about this! If it’s your first time skiing it unlikely that you’ll be setting yourself up for any Alpine freestyle or acrobatics on the slope but it’s good to know a bit about the sport. Skiing was thought to have been invented by pre-historic Nordic folk to enable them to hunt better over the snowy environment. When you see the kinds of speed and manoeuvres possible on the slopes you’ll soon understand why this made perfect hunting sense!

What can you expect?
There are a number of manmade slopes in the UK, or you can try the real thing in various locations abroad such as France, Austria, as well as some other less well known skiing resorts; but excellent stag weekend resorts, like Riga in Latvia. Get wrapped up warm and then head to the slope with your stag party. You’ll be met by your instructor who will take you through what you’ll cover in your day and then it’s off to get you kitted out. The activity centre will provide you with all the equipment you’ll need to enjoy your skiing activity from helmet, goggles, gloves, ski suit and obviously your skis and poles.  Then you’ll head to the slope where, if it’s your first lesson, you’ll learn the basics of skiing such as stopping, starting and how to turn. Once you’ve practiced these basic moves you’ll be able to try them out on a beginners’ slope which is a relatively low incline and lets you find your feet. If you’re already a pro then you might want to skip the lesson and just head to the slopes to tear up some snow!

Why skiing on a stag weekend?
Skiing mixes excitement and adventure which is perfect for a stag weekend away. When you’re flying down a slope with the sun shining and you’re pulling off some James Bond moves, you’re going to be thinking that things couldn’t’ really get much better. Even if you have people in your stag party who have never been skiing before, arranging a lesson is a great way to get everyone involved.

For more information about skiing on your stag weekend or for other stag weekend ideas visit: http://www.thestagcompany.com/skiing-stag-weekends/
Or: http://www.thestagcompany.com/activities.php

The Stag Company has been sending men on some of the most stylish and adventurous stag weekends since 2004. We have extensive experience and information about stag weekends and stag parties both in the UK and many European destinations. For a friendly, informative service don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/skiing-on-your-stag-weekend-978998.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 19

For example, Aspen and Snowmass are named among the best resorts in the North America. When it comes to perfect ski holidays Colorado ski resorts like Aspen and Snowmass have proved to deliver amazing unforgettable memories and extreme enjoyment for each visitor.

There are numerous ski resorts nestled among the picturesque mountains of Colorado. And it is no wonder. In Aspen and Snowmass resorts the winter season starts in December and lasts until April. Each mountain has numerous trails and lifts to cater for large amount of people. Aspen and Snowmass resorts are also famous for wide selection of family activities that you can engage in with your children or non-skiing relatives. It makes ski vacations in Colorado pleasant for everyone. Some of the family friendly activities that are popular among the visitors of these resorts are ice-skating, camping, swimming in the vast pool located in the city’s sport centre, and playing hockey. There are also numerous fine restaurants, vivid night life and outstanding shopping opportunities that you can leverage on coming to Aspen or Snowmass.

Aspen

Surrounded by four breath-taking mountains and featuring many acres of land that seems to be created for skiing, Aspen will definitely become your best ski vacations destination ever. You can spend your vacation or week-end skiing and exploring the beautiful nature of the area. Rent an accommodation near the slopes and you will enjoy a perfect view even if you’re at home.

It is believed that Aspen is a favorite winter destination for stars and celebrities. The city has to comply with the high standards and thus it has every attribute of the luxurious vacation: posh night clubs, glamorous boutiques and first-rate restaurants. There’s also a variety of top-notch accommodations to choose from.

Snowmass

Snowmass is a picturesque and welcoming ski village and the most family-friendly resort in the whole state of Colorado. It is known as the best destination for beginner-skiers and offers the same high quality of shopping, dinning and entertaining facilities as Aspen does. Here you can select between cozy affordable accommodations and luxury house according to your taste and budget.

Jason Dark has long experience in different facets of Ski vacations in Colorado. He is a head travel writer for the Snowmass Ski Rental.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/extreme-sports-articles/why-to-ski-aspen-and-snowmass-979446.html

posted by My Skateboard Tricks on Jun 15

There are many people who simply hate winter. When the snow starts to fall, and the days get shorter, these folks lock themselves in their rooms, and rarely come out till spring. Weight gain, as well as a condition known as SAD or Seasonal Affected Disorder, which is a winter-related type of depression, is soon to follow. Guess what? It doesn’t have to be that way! You can embrace winter and learn to ride!

 Snowboard: Who Me?

 Twenty- five years ago, snowboarders at ski resorts were conspicuous by their absence.  In fact, snowboarding was forbidden at resorts such as Aspen Colorado, Taos, New Mexico, Deer Valley, Alta, Utah and Mad River Glen, Vermont.  Times have certainly changed. While snowboarding was once in the exclusive domain of males under age 25, even baby boomers of both genders are embracing the sport. Many have found that it is easier on the knees. Others welcome the chance to wear a pair of soft and comfortable boots, as opposed to the stiff boots worn for alpine skiing.

 Today, most resorts have eliminated their ban on snowboarding, and there are only few areas where riding is prohibited. Initially, snowboarding may be harder to learn than skiing. However, once you learn the basics, many find that the learning curve is much shorter than the learning curve of alpine skiing.

 A Brief History of Snowboarding

 While many people credit Jake Burton with the invention of the snowboard, its history actually began in 1965. During this year, a chemical gas engineer by the name of Sherman Poppen decided that it would be fun to tie two skis together and put a rope at the end. His invention was inspired by surfing and skateboarding. Poppen called his new toy a “snurfer.” Poppen’s daughters adored their new play thing. Soon, their friends decided that they too wanted this new ‘snow toy,’ which was much cooler than a sled. Poppen decided to sell his idea to a manufacturer. By 1966, over half a million snurfers were sold in the United States.

 While the snurfer was usually regarded as children’s toy, Poppen organized snurfing competitions across the country. One day, a man named Jake Burton attended one of these events.  He immediately fell in love with the sport, and decided to expand on its possibilities. Thus, when he moved to Londonderry, Vermont in 1977, he created the first laminated, hardwood board. Burton improved on the snurfer by adding bindings, which made a huge difference in safety and efficiency. In fact the improvements were so significant, that when Burton entered another snurfing competition, he inspired the envy of his fellow competitors when he beat them by a long shot. The rest is history. In 1994, after a long fight, snowboarding was finally accepted as an Olympic sport.

 Snowboarding: the Ultimate Balance Sport

 Many people are concerned that they might not be in good enough shape to learn to ride. While being fit certainly helps, snowboarding is more about dynamic balance and less about brute strength.  To prepare for your snowboarding lesson, spend time on a balance board, a stability ball or a bosu.  You can combine snowboard-specific strength by performing squats and lunges on any type of balance device, and train your core muscles by performing crunches on a stability ball.

 Dress for Snowboard Success

 How much enjoy snowboarding is directly dependent on your ability to stay warm. You should choose snowboard clothing that can wick moisture, supply warmth and allow for freedom of movement. The layering approach can accomplish all of this.

 Begin with a pair of long thermal underwear and a long thermal undershirt. Fabrics should be synthetic. Never use cotton! It will store moisture, instead of wicking it. Stored moisture makes you feel wet and feeling wet makes you cold. Polyester or polypropylene materials are the best materials for snowboard underwear.

 Your next layer of clothing is responsible for insulation.  A fleece turtleneck works best. In extremely cold weather, you will want to wear a pullover over the turtleneck. The outer layer of snowboard clothing is the most challenging, because it needs to be waterproof, windproof and breathable. It also needs to be big enough to fit over your base and insulating layers. Since snowboarding might take more upper-body motion than skiing, snowboard jackets tend to be a somewhat baggier.

 Snowboard pants should also be composed of waterproof, breathable and windproof materials. Be warned!  Many snowboarding movements might cause your pants to shift while riding. Avoid embarrassment, and look for pants with belt loops. You might also want to consider snowboard pants with padding around the knee and butt, which will make life more comfortable when you are kneeling or sitting on the slope.

 Keeping your hands nice and toasty will help the rest of your body nice and warm. Snowboarders are lucky. Since they do not use ski poles, they can wear mittens, which are often warmer than gloves. A helmet will keep your head warm and safe, and goggles will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

 Snowboarding Stance

 Snowboarders ride in either of two stances; goofy or regular. If you ride with your right foot forward, you are goofy, and if you ride with your left foot forward, you are regular.  Goofy or regular snowboard stance has nothing to do with whether you are right-handed or left-handed. While there are a variety of ways to establish whether you have a goofy or regular stance, the easiest is to observe which foot you use first when climbing stairs and taking a step forwards.

 Learning to Ride

 Learning to snowboard requires a sense of humor.  You will probably fall, but if you relax, you won’t get hurt. Laugh at your wipe-outs and applaud your accomplishments. Have fun!

M Newbold is a prolific writer with varied interests including health, fitness and sports. For a comprehensive guide to freestyle snowboarding, coaching sessions and free lessons, visit www.getsnowboarding.net

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