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December, 2024

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Park Skiing & Aging

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Pac2
Posts: 800 - Karma: 3,041
This sounds crazy as I am only 24, but I have been skiing and skating for most of my life, and I think it's finally catching up to me. Have a full time job now, don't live as close to the mountains as I once did, my joints hurt, and it absolutely blows. I am constantly torn between the risk to reward of skiing park; on one hand, I love it and don't want to give it up as I have put a lot of my time into it, but on the other, I sometimes question how worth it is to risk my body for some corks and rail tricks at this stage of life. That said, I know my time is running out and I want to make the most of it, I'm sure I am not the only one who has had this dilemma. I feel as though my future self would thank me for still pushing it even if I do experience some form of injury or slowing down as I imagine it only gets more difficult.

I used to ski all day and wake up fine the next, now I ski for 3 hours and feel like there is a bag of bricks weighing me down. It literally feels like someone dipped my feet in concrete sometimes, I'm just not as snappy as I used to be.

That said, I am sometimes unsure if this is due to me just not being in as good of shape or if it's just my age, or possibly both? I workout fairly frequently, but I also work an office job which doesn't help.

I guess my main question is, for the the people who have felt this, have you been able to bounce back? Or is it really downhill from here and I just gotta learn to fight through it?

I wanna keep the fire stoked.
Dec 4 2023 9:54PM
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Farmville420
Posts: 4859 - Karma: 62,606
Just hit the gym more often
Dec 4 2023 9:57PM
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Boston_Skier
Posts: 91 - Karma: 325
I agree with you, it’s a very tough decision, I’m 26 but was feeling the same way at 24. I still try to ski as much park as I can, but now skiing with my girlfriend 90% of my already limited days, it may only be a few laps per day. Try to stay in shape as best as you can, buy a massage gun or foam roller for before and after the day.

I know the time is coming when I finally buy a pair of all mountain charging skis where I can fly around and maybe pop into the parks to see the set ups. It’s a sad thought as I loved learning new tricks, progressing, hiking rails in my backyard or on the mountain for hours as a teenager, but it beats the risk of mangling my body as I get older.
Dec 4 2023 10:07PM
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Farmville420
Posts: 4859 - Karma: 62,606
If you want someone to talk to DM Elliot DeLeo on Instagram. He just turned 30 and has progressed a crazy amount in his late 20s, he's currently at his apex of skill and works as a full time landscaper, and STILL seems to get better every season. He can tell you better advice than anyone, be ready for some tough truths tho, he's 5 years sober as well and I don't think that's a coincidence.
Dec 4 2023 10:17PM
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Pac2
Posts: 800 - Karma: 3,041
d.sprague....I agree with you, it’s a very tough decision, I’m 26 but was feeling the same way at 24. I still try to ski as much park as I can, but now skiing with my girlfriend 90% of my already limited days, it may only be a few laps per day. Try to stay in shape as best as you can, buy a massage gun or foam roller for before and after the day.

I know the time is coming when I finally buy a pair of all mountain charging skis where I can fly around and maybe pop into the parks to see the set ups. It’s a sad thought as I loved learning new tricks, progressing, hiking rails in my backyard or on the mountain for hours as a teenager, but it beats the risk of mangling my body as I get older.


couldn't have said it better, the days of all mountain skiing are inching ever so close, can't decide how I feel about that.
Dec 4 2023 10:28PM
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Pac2
Posts: 800 - Karma: 3,041
Farmville420If you want someone to talk to DM Elliot DeLeo on Instagram. He just turned 30 and has progressed a crazy amount in his late 20s, he's currently at his apex of skill and works as a full time landscaper, and STILL seems to get better every season. He can tell you better advice than anyone, be ready for some tough truths tho, he's 5 years sober as well and I don't think that's a coincidence.


Good to know, thanks for the info. I would also agree with you that him being sober for 5 years is surely no coincidence. I feel even alcohol, especially while I was in school, aged my body more than I would have anticipated. I hardly drink now, but do smoke weed from time to time and as much as I hate to admit it, vaped for a few years, none of which helps.

Curious to hear what he thinks.

Thanks mate.
Dec 4 2023 10:32PM
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bertBertson
Posts: 274 - Karma: 4,426
Don't give up OP! I'm a couple years older and still riding and progressing in the park, here are some things things that really help me keep going:
- number one is strength training, but it seems like you're already doing it! Are you resting enough/doing things like leg day far enough away from your skiing days?
- If you can, try seeing a good physiotherapist, there might be particular exercises or stretches you could be doing to help those areas most impacted by skiing be more resilient. Chiropractor might not be a bad idea either if your back tends to bother you.
- Sitting in an office chair blows. It seems like dumb advice but get up and walk a lap around your office every hour, it will really help (bonus points: if you walk fast with a concerned look it will make you look really busy!) Consider going for a longer walk on your lunch break a couple times a week too.
- Further in that vein I have a stretching routine I try to do daily that's meant to help the chair fatigue, I will try to dig it up and post.

My thinking is that when you get up into your late 20s your body stops taking care of certain things automatically, especially flexibility, strength and recovery. But it's not the end of the world! You just gotta switch to manual mode and start conciously taking care of that stuff.

If you're old and still shredding please drop any advice here cuz I'm trying to do this shit for as long as possible 🤙
Dec 4 2023 11:15PM
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Paul.
Posts: 1620 - Karma: 11,215
Last year on my 26th birthday I landed cork 7 for the first time /claim. The following weekend I got cork 9. Two weeks later I went for 10 and knocked myself out and separated my shoulder.

Personally I feel that I've never been better at park skiing than I am now at 27, but the risks are definitely higher these days. My head/shoulder put me out of work for a full week, and when I went back in I was pretty limited in what I could do for another week or two. That sucked quite a bit, but it didn't make me want to slow down. I still have a ton of goals in skiing, cork 10 redemption being one of them. I just need to be smarter about what I'm doing, ride with a helmet more, and probably hit the gym.

I guess you just need to weigh out the risk/reward as it pertains to you. 24 is still pretty young so you definitely have time to go hard with skiing, but if work a physical job and you are living paycheck to paycheck, then maybe you should ease up a bit. Otherwise, find a crew that will push you and keep it going as long as it feels good.
Dec 4 2023 11:44PM
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nCrow
Posts: 1237 - Karma: 8,292
Consistent yoga is a big one for me. My body was feeling pretty worn down a few years ago, but regular routines and some simple at home leg workouts have my knees and hips feeling great and I’ve been having more fun in the park in my late 20s than ever.

It’s definitely true though that it takes a dedicated effort to keep up at this sport as your body ages out of its youthfulness in your late 20s. But it’s absolutely worth it
Dec 5 2023 1:53AM
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oldmanski
Posts: 3378 - Karma: 24,623
You got lots of great years ahead of you OP along with everyone else in this thread. Take it from me, if I can still make a few laps through the park at my age(upper 40's) and have fun than I would imagine you will too. I have slowed down for sure, I choose my battles whether going big is worth it or not, as usually the consequences outweigh the rewards. Recovery time is definitely longer but staying active from weight training, yoga, running has kept my body in decent form to allow me to do the things I love to do.
I have beat the shit out of my body through my many trips around the sun with multiple surgeries, concussions, dislocated/separated shoulders, broken bones and numerous sprains but I have always found a way to get back to skiing. Stay fit, eat a decent diet, drink lots of water, limit the partying, keep your mind clear and just enjoy life. Those are the basic ingredients needed to be able to things you do now, later in life. I hope to be dropping into the park one day like Hot Dog Hans but the real deal.lol God speed OP
Dec 5 2023 6:43AM
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Dlonetti
Posts: 1889 - Karma: 19,784
I'm 24 working a regular person job and progressing and learning more than I ever have. Living in the midwest my only option is really to ski park otherwise it would be pretty boring. Get in the gym, cross train on the bike in the summer, eat well and get plenty of sleep
Dec 5 2023 9:33AM
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Rparr
Posts: 5635 - Karma: 46,974
I'm about to turn 30 and I still feel pretty good on skis. No regression yet. What has changed for me though is I'm a lot less willing to take large risks with regards to tricks because I know that when I do get hurt it takes a lot longer to recover than it did 10 years ago. Risk management becomes more important as you get older
Dec 5 2023 10:01AM
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michael_bc
Posts: 1396 - Karma: 788
I'm 41 and I've been shredding my whole life so let me weigh in.

1. Progression is everything.

If you're not progressing, you will feel physically and mentally fatigued by the sport.

Park skiing: at one point in life you will progress beyond a level where the risk is still acceptable. The next trick to learn is just not worth the risk anymore, especially as you get older. This is a turning point.

My approach was to change focus. I started skiing powder (as most skiers do). There's also touring, exploring, and traveling. Now I'm at the point where I'm teaching my kids to shred, which is beyond rewarding. Progression never stops.

2. You won't always feel tired.

Maybe you are out of shape. Maybe you caught a virus this autumn and your muscles are still tired. Maybe your skis lost their pop and you need to upgrade. Who knows. As you get older this is part of the game, but I promise you other days will be awesome.

I've had similar dips. I've felt extremely low energy on a ski trip to Canada 15 years ago. My legs were shot after 3 days. I felt terrible. Turned out I had gained some weight and that years Bacon's were too soft the combination of which made it exhausting to ski.

This year, I don't know if it's because I mountain biked all summer, or maybe I just needed a new pair of skis, but I feel on fire this season.

Conclusion: it's all uphill from here.

- Find new things to learn in skiing to stay stoked.
- Bike to your office job etc. to stay active outside of skiing.
Dec 5 2023 10:29AM
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switchlip2
Posts: 2142 - Karma: 25,130
Farmville420If you want someone to talk to DM Elliot DeLeo on Instagram. He just turned 30 and has progressed a crazy amount in his late 20s, he's currently at his apex of skill and works as a full time landscaper, and STILL seems to get better every season. He can tell you better advice than anyone, be ready for some tough truths tho, he's 5 years sober as well and I don't think that's a coincidence.


Sober is a skiing hack
Dec 5 2023 10:50AM
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Farmville420
Posts: 4859 - Karma: 62,606
switchlip2Sober is a skiing hack

Sobriety is a life hack in general, might try to go full sober once my body requires it
Dec 5 2023 10:58AM
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IsaacNW82
Posts: 769 - Karma: 6,695
My 2c is the mid- to late- 20's is when some hard realities hit that have a way bigger impact than the actual aging of your body. First of all, your brain finally finishes developing at ~26, and you finally see the risks for what they are: I spent a lot of time injured from 18-21. I feel like I can take a bigger hit now at 27 then when I was 18, I just don't want to spend the rest of my 20s in a string of injuries.

This is also when a lot of people are trying to get their life and career started, so prioritizing your health is difficult. Drinking culture is deeply ingrained in skiing, and at many jobs not exercising or sleeping enough will be the norm for most of your co-workers. Its hard to keep healthy when its actively getting in the way of your social life, or even your career.

I don't think you should feel rushed. I used to feel that way too. I think its totally reasonable to expect, that given you take care of your body, you can have fun and ski at a high level at least until 35, and you'll probably have a great time skiing the next 35 years too, slowly but surely tapering it down
Dec 5 2023 12:34PM
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Farmville420
Posts: 4859 - Karma: 62,606
RparrI'm about to turn 30 and I still feel pretty good on skis. No regression yet. What has changed for me though is I'm a lot less willing to take large risks with regards to tricks because I know that when I do get hurt it takes a lot longer to recover than it did 10 years ago. Risk management becomes more important as you get older

Slamming also improves bone density. I can't remember exactly how my ortho phrased it or what she cited, but I do remember her saying it's not a coincidence that a UFC fighter could break my shin with theirs if we threw a leg check with equal force. Contact sports improve density so falling a lot can actually strengthen your bones and make you less prone to injury, muscle tears on the other hand....
Dec 5 2023 12:53PM
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PussyFinder
Posts: 277 - Karma: 802
Welcome to the real world
Dec 5 2023 2:11PM
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officechair
Posts: 281 - Karma: 2,384
25 was the year I had a lot of injuries in another sport, but I think the same rules apply. You can't go as hard as you used to and that's normal. This is about the point where you either destroy yourself trying to be 15 again or you be smarter in how you handle loads. You can definitely still progress, but you can't do random bs anymore and be okay. Right now is the time to hit the gym and develop a good strength routine. In my 30s now and since I started strength training (low rep top sets) my body has been much more robust and stronger. My opinion is keep it simple: no need to go on some wild intense plan or weird rep schemes. Only a few exercises per week that target the muscles you need to prevent injury; consider deadlift, squat, gymnastic rings, bench, just the basics.
Dec 5 2023 2:30PM
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switchlip2
Posts: 2142 - Karma: 25,130
Farmville420Sobriety is a life hack in general, might try to go full sober once my body requires it


Facts
Dec 5 2023 3:49PM
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lil.Boye
Posts: 2730 - Karma: 12,492
i have tried to forget about the progress part and just have more fun on the mountain, seems like it have helped my progression since it doesn't feel as forced. i have strayed a bit away from park skiing, skiing more all mountain and off piste.
Dec 5 2023 3:55PM
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homies3xual
Posts: 11 - Karma: 51
Keep the cranium healthy. Seeing homies who were dialed in their teens/early 20s just not taking enough time after concos and now struggling with daily tasks and not being able to ski at all now, even blue groomers, is sad as fuck. Unfortunate to say I know a couple. Repeat concussions are absolutely no joke. Take a fall and you might miss a chunk of the season but I cannot stress enough how worth it is resting your head after a bonk
Dec 5 2023 4:58PM
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Toona
Posts: 107 - Karma: 1,424
Along with getting into the gym which most people have already recommended, I'd recommend stretching for a while before bed or whenever you have time. I've found it to be very helpful for preventing injury on big wipeouts. I like to do
- Cossack squats
- Hamstring reaches
- Childs pose
- Pigeon pose
- Deep squat and hold for a while(probably my favorite, great for knee health)
Overall just find what works for you
Dec 5 2023 8:12PM
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STEEZUS_CHRI5T
Posts: 3011 - Karma: 23,076
Turned 30 this year and I'm fine. You gotta keep working out (running and lifting). Keep the diet clean and do band work or yoga to warm up.

Anyway you have plenty of time left, don't worry. It sucks to give something up that defined you but everyone must do it at some point. I always told myself I'd keep pushing until I got hurt and eventually that's what forced me to admit I was done. At 28 I snapped my shin and shattered my ankle, nearly lost my foot. You'll get a sign but until then keep at it.
Dec 5 2023 8:49PM
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kmccall85
Posts: 15 - Karma: 124
I’m 38 been skiing my entire life. Every year I still get better. I love park and back country. Work out, have fun and enjoy your 20s. You’ll be fine. (Also sober over 10 years since people think that might be the trick)
Dec 5 2023 9:16PM
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Pac2
Posts: 800 - Karma: 3,041
Farmville420Sobriety is a life hack in general, might try to go full sober once my body requires it


kmccall85I’m 38 been skiing my entire life. Every year I still get better. I love park and back country. Work out, have fun and enjoy your 20s. You’ll be fine. (Also sober over 10 years since people think that might be the trick)

I am curious, what do you guys think of smoking weed? Would you alcohol is worse in terms of longevity or is it all the same shit?
Dec 5 2023 11:46PM
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EvanMeyer
Posts: 3822 - Karma: 3,459
Age means nothing especially at 24. I didn’t even start getting hangovers til I was like 26. Im now 30 (not old by any means) last season was one of the best seasons I had in years. Relearned or learned new tricks I hadn’t done in 10+ years. I did end my season by breaking my leg in April but oddly enough I feel stronger after 7 months of hard PT and am in overall better shape than I was in my mid 20s. Going California sober definitely helped me get my shit together, but I also changed my diet, got in the gym regularly and just take my overall health more seriously. think of people like Thall who just turned 40, Travis rice is 41 hell Jamie Thomas is 49.
Dec 6 2023 12:26AM
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Crabbeski_NB
Posts: 145 - Karma: 637
Pac2This sounds crazy as I am only 24, but I have been skiing and skating for most of my life, and I think it's finally catching up to me. Have a full time job now, don't live as close to the mountains as I once did, my joints hurt, and it absolutely blows. I am constantly torn between the risk to reward of skiing park; on one hand, I love it and don't want to give it up as I have put a lot of my time into it, but on the other, I sometimes question how worth it is to risk my body for some corks and rail tricks at this stage of life. That said, I know my time is running out and I want to make the most of it, I'm sure I am not the only one who has had this dilemma. I feel as though my future self would thank me for still pushing it even if I do experience some form of injury or slowing down as I imagine it only gets more difficult.

I used to ski all day and wake up fine the next, now I ski for 3 hours and feel like there is a bag of bricks weighing me down. It literally feels like someone dipped my feet in concrete sometimes, I'm just not as snappy as I used to be.

That said, I am sometimes unsure if this is due to me just not being in as good of shape or if it's just my age, or possibly both? I workout fairly frequently, but I also work an office job which doesn't help.

I guess my main question is, for the the people who have felt this, have you been able to bounce back? Or is it really downhill from here and I just gotta learn to fight through it?

I wanna keep the fire stoked.


32 and rip the park everday party like a pirate work like a sailor. Just send it bud! seperated shoulder, blow acls broken and fucked ankles. If ya aint first your last. Hot tubs ice baths and powder.

Keep the party cookin.
Dec 6 2023 12:38AM
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HypeBeast
Posts: 9818 - Karma: 72,963
Dude you need to work out more. You're 24... If you're feeling it now, you ain't making it to 40.
Dec 6 2023 2:01AM
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Trifes
Posts: 662 - Karma: 5,564
Pac2This sounds crazy as I am only 24, but I have been skiing and skating for most of my life, and I think it's finally catching up to me. Have a full time job now, don't live as close to the mountains as I once did, my joints hurt, and it absolutely blows. I am constantly torn between the risk to reward of skiing park; on one hand, I love it and don't want to give it up as I have put a lot of my time into it, but on the other, I sometimes question how worth it is to risk my body for some corks and rail tricks at this stage of life. That said, I know my time is running out and I want to make the most of it, I'm sure I am not the only one who has had this dilemma. I feel as though my future self would thank me for still pushing it even if I do experience some form of injury or slowing down as I imagine it only gets more difficult.

I used to ski all day and wake up fine the next, now I ski for 3 hours and feel like there is a bag of bricks weighing me down. It literally feels like someone dipped my feet in concrete sometimes, I'm just not as snappy as I used to be.

That said, I am sometimes unsure if this is due to me just not being in as good of shape or if it's just my age, or possibly both? I workout fairly frequently, but I also work an office job which doesn't help.

I guess my main question is, for the the people who have felt this, have you been able to bounce back? Or is it really downhill from here and I just gotta learn to fight through it?

I wanna keep the fire stoked.


I'm 29 - 30 in march. What i've seen happening over the last decade is that my endurance is slightly creeping downwards if i don't actively do something about it (food, sleep, gym).


It's scientifically proven that around the mid 20s end 20s depending on your genetic lottery, your body is actually "dieing" off - and we as concious new age human, have to go into preservation mode. This means, start doing something to prolong life such as gym, good diet and decent sleep. ^^




it's just how it is - but look, tanner also still getting his days in at 40ish
Dec 6 2023 2:13AM
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muffMan.
Posts: 2820 - Karma: 26,737
Pac2I am curious, what do you guys think of smoking weed? Would you alcohol is worse in terms of longevity or is it all the same shit?


I would try to ween off that as well, at least smoking it. I smoked a lot until I was around 20, and feel so much healthier lung wise at 23 now without it.

There is so much weed tech out there, check out dry herb vaporization if edibles don’t cut it, it’s basically just heating up the weed until THC and other cannabinoids are extracted, leaving the nasty plant matter out.
Dec 6 2023 10:31AM
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STEEZUS_CHRI5T
Posts: 3011 - Karma: 23,076
Pac2I am curious, what do you guys think of smoking weed? Would you alcohol is worse in terms of longevity or is it all the same shit?


To chime in - Weed hasn't been legal or popular until recently so there aren't long term studies to know the long term effects. Burning something and breathing in smoke is generally unhealthy. To be safe, I'd avoid smoking and use edibles instead.

On the other hand, alcohol is widely known and documented as what amounts to poison. Look at Bam Margera. Just enjoy a drink every now and then and don't make a routine out of it if you want be in tip top shape.
Dec 6 2023 11:03AM
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Farmville420
Posts: 4859 - Karma: 62,606
Pac2I am curious, what do you guys think of smoking weed? Would you alcohol is worse in terms of longevity or is it all the same shit?

My friends and family members that have been smoking for a long time are pretty fried, it seems to have a similar effect on the brain when used daily as alcohol. Like I have alcoholic family members and pothead family members and both are just super washed mentally.

Smoking anything is objectively bad for your lungs (so are scented candles btw) so if you're gonna get high I'd recommend just not smoking it and would definitely not recommend being faded 24/7.
Dec 6 2023 11:10AM
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skalbanan
Posts: 165 - Karma: 459
RparrI'm about to turn 30 and I still feel pretty good on skis. No regression yet. What has changed for me though is I'm a lot less willing to take large risks with regards to tricks because I know that when I do get hurt it takes a lot longer to recover than it did 10 years ago. Risk management becomes more important as you get older


With the less willing to take risks is probably from being more developed in your mind, for example when in your teen years you take more risks and seek risk > reward type shit.
Dec 6 2023 11:39AM
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silent_giraffe
Posts: 1290 - Karma: 2,116
I think everyone hit all the important points in this thread. The only thing I have to add is regarding risk management and progression. If you want to learn new tricks without injury, it shouldn’t feel like a total blind huck from my experience. You should feel confident you’ll land it, or at least close enough to avoid complete disorientation. Doing the classic progression from foam pit, trampoline, pow jump, park jump helps immensely with confidence, and some tricks might forever be a trampoline trick for you and may never make it to snow. But some days the vibes are on and it might cross your mind to try something you previously wrote off. Those days are the days I just let it fly, because who knows how many more of them I’ll have. Even if you only do the trick once and it’s not on video and no other witnesses, you know you did it and can take that accomplishment to the grave. Improving style is another form of progressing I’ve been getting into, partially because I’ve always wanted better style and partially to avoid riskier tricks. Do you know exactly where your arms and legs are in the air? Could you grab blunt with your eyes closed? It’s almost an intimacy with your body and skis that can be achieved if you don’t spend all your time hucking your meat. Some of these things are less dazzling to the average joe, but they are what make you a true master of the craft (which I am not). Also, complete visualization boosts your success rate, check out http://joseph-murrell.blogspot.com/2010/10/perfect-learning-its-all-in-head_23.html?m=1

There’s always something interesting to do on the mountain, just might not always be your best trick +180°
Dec 6 2023 3:07PM
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kmccall85
Posts: 15 - Karma: 124
Pac2I am curious, what do you guys think of smoking weed? Would you alcohol is worse in terms of longevity or is it all the same shit?


No alcohol but I’ve smoked daily for the past 25 years. So no they are not the Same.
Dec 6 2023 8:52PM
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freestyler540
Posts: 13126 - Karma: 19,229
michael_bcI'm 41 and I've been shredding my whole life so let me weigh in.

1. Progression is everything.

If you're not progressing, you will feel physically and mentally fatigued by the sport.

Park skiing: at one point in life you will progress beyond a level where the risk is still acceptable. The next trick to learn is just not worth the risk anymore, especially as you get older. This is a turning point.

My approach was to change focus. I started skiing powder (as most skiers do). There's also touring, exploring, and traveling. Now I'm at the point where I'm teaching my kids to shred, which is beyond rewarding. Progression never stops.

2. You won't always feel tired.

Maybe you are out of shape. Maybe you caught a virus this autumn and your muscles are still tired. Maybe your skis lost their pop and you need to upgrade. Who knows. As you get older this is part of the game, but I promise you other days will be awesome.

I've had similar dips. I've felt extremely low energy on a ski trip to Canada 15 years ago. My legs were shot after 3 days. I felt terrible. Turned out I had gained some weight and that years Bacon's were too soft the combination of which made it exhausting to ski.

This year, I don't know if it's because I mountain biked all summer, or maybe I just needed a new pair of skis, but I feel on fire this season.

Conclusion: it's all uphill from here.

- Find new things to learn in skiing to stay stoked.
- Bike to your office job etc. to stay active outside of skiing.

Im 36 and still progressing. Michael_bc pretty much has the key to stay in the game. Consistency is key.

I would also diversify my skiing as much as possible. Get the level 1 ski instructor, enjoy glades and moguls. Find some tamer street feature and ride it. As much as park is awesome and fun, I moved to the mountains and started to master my big mountain skills.
Dec 7 2023 2:24PM
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KilaTsunami
Posts: 3226 - Karma: 30,826
Gen z thinks they turn "old" at like 21 lol... its all in your head dude. Most people don't even start skiing until their 20's so your ahead of the game. But to me it sounds like you're too stagnant in the off season to me. Off season conditioning goes a very long way as you become more advanced as a skier.
Dec 7 2023 5:53PM
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IsaacNW82
Posts: 769 - Karma: 6,695
KilaTsunamiGen z thinks they turn "old" at like 21 lol... its all in your head dude. Most people don't even start skiing until their 20's so your ahead of the game. But to me it sounds like you're too stagnant in the off season to me. Off season conditioning goes a very long way as you become more advanced as a skier.


I remember a PT once saying something like "If you treat your body like its fragile, it will be. Adaptability is the entire basis of physical training" (paraphrasing here)
Dec 8 2023 11:14AM
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snowfinder
Posts: 2886 - Karma: 34,236
38 here and still skiing park, stay in shape thats it.
Dec 8 2023 11:55AM
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Dani-B
Posts: 237 - Karma: 2,105
My advice comes from mountain biking, but it applies here too since there's crashes and injuries to be had in that sport. I'm 29 and still progressing on jumps and tech.

Lifestyle is so important as others have already said. You are young enough still that you can form good habits now for life, like getting enough sleep (7-8 hrs a night) and eating decent. Cut back on drugs and alcohol if those aren't already in moderation. I'm starting to notice that I don't bounce back as easily as I used to either, but I look at it as needing to be more strict about lifestyle.

If you can make it a priority, exercise multiple times a week; multiple lower intensity activities are better than one hard one. If you are already going to the gym, that's great. Adding cardio like running or even hiking is your friend for building endurance for skiing. Having multiple sports to choose from is good too for keeping things fresh if you need a mental break from one sport. If you've got a friend willing to meet up to run like once or twice a week, that's good for keeping you accountable.

Make sure to take time to come back from an injury or hard session as well, physically and mentally. Get back on the horse, but ease back into things: progress back up to where you were before going to whatever's next. You don't have to smash it every time you go out either. That will help take the pressure off, keep it fun, and allow you to go hard when you actually want to.
Dec 8 2023 1:02PM
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KilaTsunami
Posts: 3226 - Karma: 30,826
IsaacNW82I remember a PT once saying something like "If you treat your body like its fragile, it will be. Adaptability is the entire basis of physical training" (paraphrasing here)


I love that. PTs are so woke lol
Dec 8 2023 2:14PM
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skiP.E.I.
Posts: 7860 - Karma: 22,353
I'm 10 years older than you and still progressing, just not as quickly as I used to.
I do get tired a little more easily, but I've made up for that by adjusting my technique to ski more efficiently, using less energy. When I'm skiing street or just outside the park in general, instead of looking for big, gnarly features I'm more interested in finding a smaller spot that's challenging to ski.
I also work outside most of the time which keeps me in shape. Going to the gym and doing ski specific exercises is a game changer.
A good diet can make all the difference. Cut down on junk food/ ultra processed food and cook with fresh vegetables and meat whenever possible. Cut out sugary drinks as much as possible.
Often when I have a rough day skiing, it's because I wait too long to eat or drink water and start to feel like shit, then eat too large a lunch which makes me feel sleepy and cold. Staying hydrated and having lots of little snacks through the day is the way to go. So if you're skiing park, stash a water bottle at the top of the park. Carry some dried fruit, nuts, bars or whatever in your pockets to snack on the lift.
If you binge drink or do drugs, minimize those habits.
Dec 8 2023 9:19PM
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Dlonetti
Posts: 1889 - Karma: 19,784
skiP.E.I.I'm 10 years older than you and still progressing, just not as quickly as I used to.
I do get tired a little more easily, but I've made up for that by adjusting my technique to ski more efficiently, using less energy. When I'm skiing street or just outside the park in general, instead of looking for big, gnarly features I'm more interested in finding a smaller spot that's challenging to ski.
I also work outside most of the time which keeps me in shape. Going to the gym and doing ski specific exercises is a game changer.
A good diet can make all the difference. Cut down on junk food/ ultra processed food and cook with fresh vegetables and meat whenever possible. Cut out sugary drinks as much as possible.
Often when I have a rough day skiing, it's because I wait too long to eat or drink water and start to feel like shit, then eat too large a lunch which makes me feel sleepy and cold. Staying hydrated and having lots of little snacks through the day is the way to go. So if you're skiing park, stash a water bottle at the top of the park. Carry some dried fruit, nuts, bars or whatever in your pockets to snack on the lift.
If you binge drink or do drugs, minimize those habits.

What are your ski specific exercises?
Dec 8 2023 10:06PM
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Pac2
Posts: 800 - Karma: 3,041
skiP.E.I.I'm 10 years older than you and still progressing, just not as quickly as I used to.
I do get tired a little more easily, but I've made up for that by adjusting my technique to ski more efficiently, using less energy. When I'm skiing street or just outside the park in general, instead of looking for big, gnarly features I'm more interested in finding a smaller spot that's challenging to ski.
I also work outside most of the time which keeps me in shape. Going to the gym and doing ski specific exercises is a game changer.
A good diet can make all the difference. Cut down on junk food/ ultra processed food and cook with fresh vegetables and meat whenever possible. Cut out sugary drinks as much as possible.
Often when I have a rough day skiing, it's because I wait too long to eat or drink water and start to feel like shit, then eat too large a lunch which makes me feel sleepy and cold. Staying hydrated and having lots of little snacks through the day is the way to go. So if you're skiing park, stash a water bottle at the top of the park. Carry some dried fruit, nuts, bars or whatever in your pockets to snack on the lift.
If you binge drink or do drugs, minimize those habits.

Come to think of it, I feel like I was dehydrated last time I went to the mountain… had a bad time. Heading back out tm so hopefully it’ll be better.



i kinda feel like smoking weed is what ruins it for me, it just makes me feel like a pussy. I get all passive and sus by features and tricks I do all the time. Gonna try not doing that and see how it pans out.
Dec 9 2023 8:20PM
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Slugger66
Posts: 131 - Karma: 863
No one's body is going to feel how it did when they were 16 years old. That's true regardless of your strength, fitness level, etc.

That being said, skiing was my primary form of exercise until I was about 20. I then adopted a consistent gym and, eventually, stretching routine. My body feels ready to send most days with this regiment and all of the other life habits people mentioned (sleep, diet, warmups).

The takeaway? It just requires more work. I'm stronger and better balanced than I ever was as a kid. My body does hurt more the day after a heavy park day or a pow day where I drop every cliff I see. Still, the pain's worth it to me if the vibes were right. Other days, I'd rather just cruise groomers and side hits, avoiding pretty much any chance of falling. I've experienced enough stupid injuries to know that there's a difference between pushing yourself and death hucking.

Preparation and intuition are everything.
Dec 9 2023 9:05PM
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STEEZUS_CHRI5T
Posts: 3011 - Karma: 23,076
Pac2Come to think of it, I feel like I was dehydrated last time I went to the mountain… had a bad time. Heading back out tm so hopefully it’ll be better.



i kinda feel like smoking weed is what ruins it for me, it just makes me feel like a pussy. I get all passive and sus by features and tricks I do all the time. Gonna try not doing that and see how it pans out.


Do people actually smoke weed and hit the park? I love the stuff but that sounds like a horrible time.
Dec 9 2023 10:02PM
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washcloths
Posts: 67 - Karma: 649
d.sprague....I agree with you, it’s a very tough decision, I’m 26 but was feeling the same way at 24. I still try to ski as much park as I can, but now skiing with my girlfriend 90% of my already limited days, it may only be a few laps per day. Try to stay in shape as best as you can, buy a massage gun or foam roller for before and after the day.

I know the time is coming when I finally buy a pair of all mountain charging skis where I can fly around and maybe pop into the parks to see the set ups. It’s a sad thought as I loved learning new tricks, progressing, hiking rails in my backyard or on the mountain for hours as a teenager, but it beats the risk of mangling my body as I get older.


From Pissnus the previous few years to Arv106s this year... the time has come
Dec 9 2023 10:16PM
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skiP.E.I.
Posts: 7860 - Karma: 22,353
DlonettiWhat are your ski specific exercises?

If I was going to the gym rather than cycling, cutting and carrying wood and whatnot, I'd be skipping, doing box jumps and squats, stationary bike and core exercises to build strength without putting on excessive bulk while simultaneously working on timing and flexibility.
Dec 9 2023 10:30PM
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Dlonetti
Posts: 1889 - Karma: 19,784
skiP.E.I.If I was going to the gym rather than cycling, cutting and carrying wood and whatnot, I'd be skipping, doing box jumps and squats, stationary bike and core exercises to build strength without putting on excessive bulk while simultaneously working on timing and flexibility.

I’ve always been a very traditional gym workout person just cuz it stuck with me from college sports but thinking it might be time to start doing more plyo type training at least some of the days
Dec 10 2023 9:11AM
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skiP.E.I.
Posts: 7860 - Karma: 22,353
DlonettiI’ve always been a very traditional gym workout person just cuz it stuck with me from college sports but thinking it might be time to start doing more plyo type training at least some of the days


Word,it's helpful for sure. My bro works an office job but he goes to the gym and does a mix of weights and plyo. He's always on point from the moment he puts skis on and he's never had an injury since he started doing it. He's progressed a lot quicker since the regular gym hours.
Dec 10 2023 9:16AM
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