Winter Sports to Try

Provided by Myreille Simard
If you've grown tired of downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and need something new to motivate you to exercise, know that there is a wide array of alternative winter activities out there. We’ve got three that’ll switch up your routine—so bundle up and get some fresh air!
 

Telemark Skiing
What is it? This is a winter sport that dates back to the 1800s and has regained popularity. At first glance, telemark looks like downhill skiing, but it requires lessons, as the basics are rather different.

The main difference between downhill and telemark skiing is that the heel is not completely attached to the ski, allowing for much freer movements, and more elegant turns. Bindings hold down your heels, but still allow you to lift them slightly and move them around.

Equipment-wise, you can easily use your regular alpine skis and get the bindings changed, but skis specially-made for telemarking are also available. Telemark poles are slightly shorter than regular ski poles. The greatest feat when it comes to telemark skiing is keeping your balance when the back of your foot detaches itself from the ski.

Who’s it for?
Advanced skiers who want a new challenge, as well as those who enjoy backcountry skiing.

Degree of difficulty:
High

Mini Ski (or Snow Blades)
What is it? Snow blades are essentially two mini skis, which are twice as small as conventional skis. A mix between skiing and snowboarding, snowblades are light and easy to manipulate and do not require any particular technique. This winter sport is more about fun than discipline and technique.

Who’s it for?
For those who prefer snowboarding to skiing, but who have a bit of difficulty learning to snowboard.

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Kite Skiing
What is it? Kite skiing is very similar to water skiing, except that it takes place on land and the skier is pulled by a parachute or kite instead of a boat. You’ll need a few lessons to master letting yourself be pulled by the kite and to learn to use your weight to control its direction.
Wide open spaces, like fields, plains or lakes, are the best places to practice this sport. You can use your regular skis, which lowers the costs. However, you will need a kite, as well as the required harness before you begin.

Who’s it for?
Ski adepts and those who are drawn to more extreme sports.

Degree of difficulty: High

Note: We recommend taking lessons from a professional before taking on a new sport.

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