Skiing For Life

Skiing might not be the first sport you think of when it comes to older athletes but it’s very popular among the over fifty-five set. The National Ski Areas Association reports an impressive twelve percent of downhill enthusiasts are over fifty-five. That number increases quite a bit when you add cross-country. Many started when they were in their teens or younger but a surprising number did not begin until they retired. Perhaps that’s because, according to The Over The Hill Gang, once you’re over the hill you pick up speed.

Many factors lure older adults to the slopes. Thanks to improvements in teaching methods and mountain grooming, learning the sport is a lot easier and more pleasant than it used to be. Modern equipment and clothing make the sport more comfortable providing warmth, safety and ease of movement. Many ski operators encourage older patrons by offering special discounts and lessons. They feel older skiers are good for business, inspiring younger people to stick with it.

Older skiers themselves have done much to promote the sport among their age group by organizing clubs that provide camaraderie and encouragement, such as the 70+ Ski Club, started by Lloyd Lambert in 1977 with thirty seven members. Now more than 17,000 members enjoy its benefits. Lloyd himself skied up until the age of ninety five, living proof that age need not limit one’s ability to enjoy this sport. Unfortunately, if you’re not seventy or older you can’t join the club yet. It’s no use lying about your age. They check. If you’re lucky enough to meet the requirements you can share in the discounts, trips and events members enjoy.

Perhaps the greatest enticements to downhill are the continual challenges and satisfactions it offers. Conquering the “Bunny Slope” is as thrilling to the novice as the treacherous “Jaws of Death” is to the expert. Each time you reach your goal you want to meet the next challenge.

Cross-country may seem a bit tame in comparison but it ranks among the best aerobic activities. It’s gliding movement takes less effort and is less jarring than most aerobics but because of the cold, it burns more calories. It takes less time to learn, costs less, is safer and easier on the joints than downhill. Like swimming and Tai-Chi, cross-country uses all the muscle groups and can be learned and benefited from at any age. Best of all, you can enjoy the sport practically anywhere there is snow. The Cross Country Ski Areas Association can help you get involved with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. They’ll help you locate resorts and trails anywhere in the country, keep you abreast of weather conditions, equipment considerations and events.