Skiing

Skiing is an extremely popular sport that is enjoyed worldwide. The oldest and most accurately documented evidence of skiing origin is found in modern day Norway and Sweden.     1     word “ski” comes from the Old Norse word “skie”,     2     (mean) split (劈开的) pieces of wood or firewood.

Skiing has evolved into two major different types: Alpine skiing and Nordic skiing. Alpine skiing, also     3     (refer) to as downhill skiing, perhaps is the most popular form of skiing. It originated in the European Alps, and is characterized by fixed-heel bindings (捆绑物) that attach at both the front and the heel (脚后跟) of the     4    (skier) boot. The boots are reinforced plastic that     5     (steady) hold the foot to the ski, and ski poles are used. Downhill skis vary     6     length and shape depending on the height of the player and the type of snow they will be skiing.

Nordic skiing, also known as “cross country” skiing,     7     (involve) skiing over flat ground. Most Nordic country skis are long and thin, allowing the weight of the skier     8     (distribute) quickly. Cross country skiers use poles to drive     9     (they) forward. Cross country boots are attached to the ski at the toe with a binding,     10     the heel remains free.