Nordic (or cross-country) skiing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter. It is also good exercise and can be enjoyed by people with many different abilities.
On Saturday, Feb. 6, the Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports (VISAS) and the Strathcona Nordic Ski Club are holding a Learn to Nordic Ski Day for people with conditions such as Paraplegia amputations, visual impairments, cerebral palsy, MS, brain injuries, and more. The aim of this clinic is to teach people with physical disabilities to Nordic ski – either standing up or using a sit ski.
"This is a great opportunity to try this activity at little cost and in a supportive environment with volunteer instructors. Complete beginners and those with some experience are welcome," says Sue, an instructor with VISAS.
For sit skiing, you must have reasonable upper body strength to be able to push yourself along in a sit ski. Wheelchair users must be able to transfer with minimal assistance. Sit skiing may also be appropriate for people who are not wheelchair-dependent, but whose mobility is limited by lower limb problems or balance.
Standing skiers must be able to stand and walk at least 400m with or without walking aids but without assistance from another person.
The cost is $20, which includes insurance, trail pass, equipment and instruction. To register and for more information, contact Sue Bloxsome sbloxsome@gmail.com. The deadline for registration is Feb. 11.
– VISAS