Skiing definitely is one of the most enjoyable winter sports, both for the young and old. is a sport that requires fitness and a  sense of balance, though initially it looks a bit daunting, it is easily learnt and mastered.

Most ski resorts offer classes for beginners which is a great way to begin and more advisable than trying it yourself. Another way to learn would be from a friend or family member who is an expert skier (and would be a definite money saver too).It is a good idea to start learning skiing in the low seasons January and March,

as the slopes are mostly empty and you have plenty of time and space to work on your technique.

Be prepared to shell out money for the ski gear, which is an area you should never compromise in. Instead of buying the gear hiring it makes more sense and once again is easier on the pocket. But make sure the equipment is in good condition and you are comfortable in it. The ski boot is the most important piece of equipment, so make sure they fit comfortably. Begin with short skis and gradually lengthen them as you improve your control skills.

It is an absolute must to learn the basics of skiing on firm ground before descending down a mountain, remember in this sport slow and steady is the best way to go. Good balance is crucial in this sport, practice balancing on just one ski before trying the slopes.

For becoming a good skier you need to learn to shift your weight back and forth, kicking the skis out from side to side in the snow. It is best to ski with your feet further apart, (that is once you have managed to learn to balance of course) as it provides more room for the feet and legs to work. A fully open stance also allows you the highest edge when turning.

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Ice climbing is an adventurous sport that is similar to rock climbing in many ways. One of the traits that are seen both in ice climbing and rock climbing is handling a vertical or nearly vertical ascent. Both the sports require great skills, concentration and most importantly, courage. They are literally a one-man show. In this article, we discuss about the basics of Ice climbing.

Generally, the ice climbers ascend ice falls or rocky surfaces over which water has frozen. They also climb frozen waterfalls, which is the most challenging of all the vertical ascends. The consistency of ice depends upon the weather and the type of ice which is being climbed. Ice is broadly categorized into two types- alpine ice (formed from the precipitation over a mountain) and water ice that comes from flowing water sources frozen during the winter.

Ice climbers use rope systems that are attached to a harness and hooked into a belaying system which releases the rope in a controlled manner. A variety of tools are used to firmly connect the rope system to the climbing surface.

Ice climbers prefer to wear boots with spikes on the bottom of the boots as to get better traction while walking across ice. This type of boots provides greater stability while climbing an ice surface.

Ice axe is another gear used by ice climbers. An ice axe helps the climbers to ascend with ease. The ice axe can also be used as a walking stick. When climbing, the ice axe can be used as a dagger. The ice climbers also use this gear to pull themselves farther up the side of the ice face. Ice climbers wear a greater degree of padding materials to keep themselves warm during the extreme cold weather.

If you thoroughly follow the basics of ice climbing, it can be one of the most extreme outdoor sports!