It’s freezing outside, but who cares when ski season has returned!
Did anyone else miss the feeling of gliding on snow? Feeling fresh snow under your skis is by far my most favorite feeling in the world. Whether that’s a freshly groomed corduroy cross country ski trail or a knee-deep powder day in the backcountry, it’s a feeling you can’t beat. I live for those days.
First days back on skis each year are the BEST and most interesting days of the year. After skinning up a mountain, the burn you feel on the way down is unlike no other. It feels so good, but it burns so bad. Two or three backcountry days into the season and you’re back at it feeling good. It’s so similar in cross country skiing, the cranky arches come out, the tight hips, maybe a tender shin or 2. The first couple of skis my body takes some definite adjustment to real snow, rather than pavement roller skiing. The wobbles come out on uneven early ski trails, but just clipping into my bindings makes my heart jump with happiness.
Getting back on snow every year is something I look forward to the moment the snow is gone. It’s not just the gliding I love so much. I love the places my skis can take me, I love the people I meet along the way, and I love to expand my ski level each year. Skiing has taught me to be patient with myself and to relax. How does that work you might ask? Think about those two words on your next ski and tell me I’m wrong.
By Kaylee Wilcox
APU Cross Country Ski Coach,
Co-founder of the non-profit, the Comfort Zone
And Athlete Ambassador for Runners’ Edge
