1. Anyone Can Ski
Disabled athletes take on all kinds of sports, indoors and out. The ski slopes are a great place for an athlete with limited mobility to take advantage of the many programs and ski equipment available. Most resorts rent adaptive equipment and provide instructors for anyone who wants to take on the slopes. There are some resorts that cater to the disabled skier.
2. Crutches that Ski
Skiers with poor balance control and blind skiers use adaptive equipment that allows them to lean onto outriggers, which are skis attached to then end of ski poles. They can help the skier to stay upright and feel the terrain beside and in front of them. The outriggers act as crutches and also work well when the disabled skier is off the skis and walking around on the snow.
3. Extra Legs
Skiers with one leg can use a modified ski that straps to their leg. This kind of skier has very good muscle control and balance. He compensates for the lopsided stance by balancing his upper body. He also has the option of using outriggers, or poles with smaller skis on the end that help control his descent.
4. Sit and Ski
People who use wheelchairs can ski on a type of sled that mounts on two skis; these sit higher off the ground than typical sleds. The skier uses outrigger skis attached to the sled that operate similar to paddles on a canoe, with a full range of motion. The sleds also may have a handlebar attached to the front of the sled to prevent the skier from falling out. A beginning skier also may be strapped in. Skiers with more upper-body strength can sit on a seat mounted to a single ski. They control their balance and direction using the outrigger skis. This is among the most difficult adaptive ski equipment to use.
5. Where the Will Goes, the Body Can Follow
Adaptive equipment for athletes continues to evolve. New ideas are constantly in production. One of the latest is a special glove that fits to a disabled hand. The glove can attach to the ski poles or outriggers, giving people without the ability to hold onto the pole a sure grip. Disabled skiers should wear goggles and helmets for extra protection, as falling and wrong turns are common.
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