Back at it after 10+ years

[saratogahalfday]

New to the forum but I've found it to be really great reading. I grew up skiing all over the NE and made trips out West several times - then college happened, marriage, kids - and all the good stuff that comes with it. But after last winter feeling trapped inside during the winter, I decided to get back into skiing despite not hitting the slopes for over 10 years. So I decided to make an investment in my mental and physical health, went out and put some coin down on new equipment and gear with the intention to start skiing again.

Any tips on starting back up again, ski areas to hit (I'm in Saratoga) to ease back into it, etc would be much appreciated. I was thinking I'd kick it off at West since it's so close, then maybe Plattekill on a Friday, Windham - keep it close for now. I'm not going to get back into the bumps or trees or off-piste right away obviously - I'm 46 and would be happy with some easy groomers, relatively short drives and smaller mountains for now to get my groove back.

Tia everybody!

Interesting, I'm 46 and live in Saratoga Springs too! I would hit Willard first, then West, and finally Gore. No need to travel south. Once you regain your skills and confidence, hit up VT (Magic, Bromley) and beyond, or stick with Gore like many do in these parts.

 

[Ripitz]

Maybe in spirit but at 46 you’re hardly an Old Timer. You’re only halfway to 92!

Bromley in the sun, the best!

 

[not2brite]

I laid off for 30 years. I was more a person who went a couple times a year, so was never really an accomplished skiier. Just turned 53 and tipping the scales @ 275 (on my way down from 350). Best advice I can give is hit some weight traning. The difference for me from last year to this year is practically immeasurable due to that. The confidence it gives that each and every crash isn't going to wipe out the rest of your season is huge. Allows you to push a little harder without that fear. I have a season pass for Berkshire East/Catamount. They are both decent variety of terrain in a compact area and pretty easy drive from Saratoga. Could be pretty good places for your first season back to get back in the groove.

 

[trackbiker]

You might want to check out the Indy Pass Indy Pass[/URL] . It's little more pricey than preseason but it will get you 2 times each at Berkshire East, Catamount, Magic, and West Mountain. All easily doable from Saratoga and about half the price of walk up tickets if you get 8 uses out of it.

 

[Campgottagopee]

Being you're an athlete it will be like riding a bike, after the first few turns you'll be back in the saddle. Plus these new skis are like cheating. ENJOY!

 

[Campgottagopee]

- played D1 football back in the 90's -

Nice -- who you play for?

But I'm not a small guy - - so I've got some miles and some weight on the ol' frame.

Same here

 

[OldTimer88]

Nice -- who you play for?

Same here

I played at Syracuse.

Thanks for all of the comments, guys. I actually drove out to Willard the other day just to check it out and found the drive to be a bit dicey at night. West is much closer and I'm thinking of waiting until the hopeful 8-12 inch snow dump on Monday.

Been working out every day, but the suggestion on stretching more is a great call. I'm so damn stiff.

And the Indy pass is another great call by you guys. Depending on how my first trip goes, I'll probably pull the trigger on that.

Again, thanks so much for all of the comments. You are all making my return much less stressful and for that I'm extremely grateful.

 

[OldTimer88]

You might want to check out the Indy Pass . It's little more pricey than preseason but it will get you 2 times each at Berkshire East, Catamount, Magic, and West Mountain. All easily doable from Saratoga and about half the price of walk up tickets if you get 8 uses out of it.

Great call! Thanks!

 

[wonderpony]

Yoga has been a great help to my fitness. I started just a little bit when I was 49. I now practice three or four days a week, doing things I never thought I could do. The first time I saw half pigeon pose, I thought people were nuts. Now, it is one of my favorites.

I am 56. Prior to the pandemic, I was exploring handstands and headstands with my teacher.

As my farrier says, yoga is stupid hard. I love it.

 

[OldTimer88]

Yoga has been a great help to my fitness. I started just a little bit when I was 49. I now practice three or four days a week, doing things I never thought I could do. The first time I saw half pigeon pose, I thought people were nuts. Now, it is one of my favorites.

I am 56. Prior to the pandemic, I was exploring handstands and headstands with my teacher.

As my farrier says, yoga is stupid hard. I love it.

Great to hear! I do a bit of yoga but have wanted to incorporate more. Thanks bud!