Skiing Disciplines - Monoskiing
Monoskiing may sound unfamiliar to some people especially if they know little about Skiing. It was developed in the early 60's by the legendary surfer Mike Doyle. It increased its popularity in the 1980's but not for so long since Snowboarding began. Although its popularity did not last for quite a long time, there are still enthusiasts of Monoskiing who practice the sport.
The main Skiing Equipment used in this sport is a Monoski. This is almost similar to a monoboard or Snowboard in the sense that both feet are attached to the same board. The difference between Snowboarding and Monoskiing is that the latter uses Skiing Poles. A longer, broader ski is used for powder while a shorter, narrower ski is used for groomed snow.
There are two types of Monoskis:
- Monoskis used in Water Skiing
Your feet are one in front of the other and pointed in the direction where your Skis are. A type of Water Skiing on a monoski is called Slalom Water Skiing.
- Monoskis used in Snow Skiing
Your feet are positioned side-by-side and pointed to the direction where your board is.
A Monoski is used to describe a type of Ski that disabled skiers such as paraplegics use. This consists of a seat with a ski fastened at the bottom of it. Skiers can then control the speed, direction, and balance of the Ski exclusively with their upper body.
Compared to traditional Skis, Monoski has a wider waist which provides greater floatation. This is one reason why there are people who are still interested in the sport. If you are concerned about your knees, this type of Ski is actually a great alternative to Skiing and Snowboarding. This is because when you Monoski, your knees are always into the axis and the effort you exert is balanced between your knees. This makes the pressure less damaging.
Monoskiing makes use of one ski which is wide enough for both your feet to be attached side-by-side. Your feet are pointed straight to where your board is also facing. Think of performing Skiing and Snowboarding at the same time. It is almost like Skiing in the sense that your shoulders are square to the fall line. Then, you roll your knees from side-to-side as you turn. You move the same way as you ski except that you have one edge to balance over just like in Snowboarding.
Lastly, Monoskiing entails more effort and energy from your upper body, resulting to less physical stress on your lower body. Don't forget that you have your Ski Poles with you so if ever you fall, you can use them as your balance to pull yourself up. This makes Monoskiing more suitable for Paraplegic Skiers and folks who have stopped Skiing due to accidents or injuries.
There are Adaptive Ski Schools out there which are designed specifically for disabled people who are interested in Skiing. They provide Skiing Equipment, instruction programs, and special teaching techniques. You may want to check out the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Colorado which is the recognized world leader in Adaptive Skiing.
In general, Skiing is a winter sport activity for people of all ages. If you are a paraplegic, do not let your condition hinder your desire to try Skiing. Just know the essentials of Monoskiing, learn the necessary skills and techniques, acquire the appropriate pieces of gear and equipment, follow some precautionary measures, and you’re on your way to an exciting day on the slopes!
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