Skiing is a popular form of winter sport. It is a pastime as well as a competitive sport. It is prevalent in many European countries as well as countries like Canada, New Zealand, and the USA. Skiing has been in existence since time immemorial. Initially, skiing was used only for the purpose of transportation. Goods could be conveniently transported with the use of skiing. Later, skiing was used to transport soldiers during war. Gradually, it was accepted as a hobby as well as a popular sport discipline.  

Skiing is a word meaning sliding through the snow using something called skis. Earlier, skis were made from wooden planks. With the advancement in technology, better and better materials are used in skiing. Initially, skiing was a mode of transportation during winter months. Gradually, skiing transformed into a form of recreational activity. Competitive skiing too became a regular feature. This sport is a recognized Olympic sport popular in North America, the whole of Europe, and Japan. Skiing as a sport has been broadly divided into three disciplines—Nordic Skiing, Alpine skiing, and Telemark Skiing. Skiing resorts are quite popular among the masses in the European countries. People visit these reports to spend their vacations. It is a family pastime enjoyed by both the adults and the children.

Alpine skiing is also called as down hill skiing. It is a form of recreational sport. Alpine skiing is a major discipline in the Winter Olympics. This activity is quite popular in the countries where snow covered mountains are available. The places with proper skiing infrastructure attract both tourists and serious skiers alike. Skiing competitions are common during the winter months. Nordic skiing includes cross country skiing, ski jumping. Cross country skiing is practiced by many both as a competitive sport and as a hobby. The soldiers of the European countries are given thorough training in skiing. Cross country skiing is a demanding discipline which requires ultimate stamina and endurance. Physical fitness is of paramount importance for a professional skiing enthusiast. Skiing involves the use of all the major muscle groups of our body. So, skiing is also an effective activity to maintain physical fitness. Telemark skiing is a skiing technique developed by Mr. Sondre Norheim. He is the person responsible for the development of modern day skiing.

International Olympic Committee and the International Ski Federation are the governing bodies of competitive skiing. There are five recognized skiing events at the Winter Olympics. They are—Cross-Country, Freestyle, Alpine, Ski jumping, and Nordic combined. Freestyle skiing is a popular Olympic sport. The Olympic events of Alpine skiing include Slalom, Giant Slalom, Super-G, Combined, and Downhill. Nordic disciplines in the Winter Olympics include Sprint, Individual Gundersen, and team. Skiing requires endurance, stamina, and skills. Exceptional physical fitness too is essential for a professional skier.