Getting back into slalom...

[drknute3]

Was pretty avid skier growing up, first learned when I was 5 and skied pretty ggod up until 25. Then medical school, residency, and private practice happened. Kids are old enough now to enjoy boating and we are getting back into it. I was prety good back then being able to ski the slalom course all the way through at 22' off, half at 28' off. that was when I was 25 and weighed 40 pounds less than I do now at 39. my question is how many of you have gotten back into slalom after a 10-15 year break and how long did it take to "get back into form" so to speak? Just curious what others' experiences have been. BTW...still have my Connely HP Mike Kjellander signature series slalom I bought in 1990.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

good boat, it's like riding a bike, of course unless you are in good shape, you will get a little winded, and hurt like heck for a couple of days. i'm 60 an still ski, although, the torn rotator cuff, and arthritis, is slowing me down.

 

[DaveM]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

I agree, it's like riding a bike. At age 45, I'm really happy to hear Tashasdaddy is skiing at 60 and I am looking forward to doing the same.

I found that I had forgotten how to do a deep water start after my 10 year hiatus, but I was never that good to begin with (1 bouy at 0 off). My form came back pretty quickly. Endurance is another story, however.

Awesome ski, BTW. But you might consider an equipment upgrade. If you are familiar with alpine (downhill) skis advancements with parabolic shape, the same technology has been applied to slalom skis. They are now lighter and wider than that Connely. And when you added a few more pounds like I have, adding a few inches in length may be appropriate.

Welcome back and don't forget your vitamin A (Advil) when you are done.

 

[drknute3]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

More like Vitamin V (Vicodin) I do have my own DEA number

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

glad to hear you are up, and enjoying it.

 

[jevery]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

Air chair is great for the older skiers. Zero resistance when up on the foil = no pull on the arms, much less tiring and a whole new experience.

 

[wca_tim]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

I got back into it last year after more like 20 years since any serious work. (has it really been that long?!? gasp!). Although I am in decent shape and stay active with everything from running, weights and martial arts, it took a little bit to get back in the right kind of shape that my whole body wasn't sore. In terms of "form", it felt very strange / foreign at first, but after a few tries something clicked and even though a little akward, the corrdination and feel came back quickly... I'm not skiing on the original wooden Connoly hook that I kept around for some reason, but tried a few newer ones from friends first and then bought a new midle of the road ski and am really pleased with the way the newer rigs handle...

I don't get to go nearly as often as I would like, but it's awesome exercise and a great thing to share with my daughter and her friends. Of coruse she's got no interest in "skiing", but it looks like ehs' going to be quite the wakeboarder before it's all over...

Enjoy it!


dang... I hope I can still cut when I'm 60...

 

[Sharp Shooter]

Re: Getting back into slalom...

dang... I hope I can still cut when I'm 60...

Me too! I think staying active plays a big part.