subject: To Snowboard Or Ski? That Is The Question [print this page] Snowboarding and skiing are two very popular activities that attract people. People who are preparing to jump onto the slopes for the first time or people wanting to perform an extreme snow sport may want to decide which activity best suits them. In this article the differences between the two activities will be discussed. These activities will help discuss the pros and cons which will help people make the decision of which activity best suits them.
Similarities Between the Skiing vs Snowboarding
Snowboarding and skiing are similar in many different ways. Both activities require you to go downhill on the slopes. The activities also are very fun for people who like to be outdoors. Both sports also include rapid turns at fast accelerating speeds, which require good balance and endurance. Skiers and snowboarders must stay in an upright position which engages the core and leg muscles. Both activities also can be competed in as sports and can be very good for physical fitness.
Differences between the Skiing vs Snowboarding
Muscle Movements
Snowboarders have constant tension from the standing and squatting positions. They will have their knees bent, but wont have anything to hold onto. Snowboarders must use all of their core muscles to be able to stay in a moving position. Skiers are in a similar position as snowboarders, but skiers have poles to hold onto when they are turning and moving. The skiers will stay upright, but they also will use a lot more upper body strength than snow boarders because they must use their arms to move the poles in various directions.
Injuries
When it comes to injuries snowboarding is a lot easier on the hamstrings, quads, and knees compared to skiing. Hamstring and knee injuries are very common in skiers than snowboarders. Skiers are going at a faster pace and are constantly moving side to side which causes a lot of movement in the lower body. A move too fast can result in an injury if the skier is less experienced. Reports have shown that snowboarding can be more tougher on the hands and wrists than skiing, mostly because snowboarders dont have anything to hold onto and can fall easier than skiers. The skiers have the polls to hold onto, which gives them more stability and balance.
Speed Levels and Tricks
Skiers do better on moving on thicker snow and move at a faster pace than snowboarders. However, snowboarders can do more tricks than the skiers because of the free range of motion.
Conclusion
Both sports have a great deal of excitement that can offer anyone an enjoyable time. Both activities can be done by beginners, but beginners must start on easier courses and should have a knowledgeable person with them. Injuries are more common in skiers, so if you have knee problems snowboarding may be a better option. If you love speed skiing may be your answer. For physical fitness both activities are a good option.
