My nephew is young and healthy and up for anything. His parents though are afraid of their shadows.

Dave has wanted to go skiing for years but his Mom has declared that he will get himself killed and break both his legs and neck if he does. I bought him a Nordic cross-country skiing machine a few years ago and he loves it.

He's going to be 18 in a few months and I have promised I will take him on a ski trip. I told his Mom that I intend to do all I can to keep him in one piece, but I think he is old enough to try it. She doesn't like it but I think that she sees he's old enough to try already. Heck, my kids ski.

He's been using the cross country trainer for years. Does anyone think he might be one up from a beginner because of it? I keep saying I think he might be, but does anyone have any idea about it?

Get him a snowboard. Lessons are a must either way.then he will pick it up much quicker and start having fun sooner.

Thanks for the tip. I'll take him along to pick one out. Do you have any suggestions as to the best place to get one or do I find a good teacher first and get him to give us tips.

I am far too old to start Snowboarding myself. Old bones and old joints. I've seen some young guys working boards and they are amazing.

Rent while he is taking lessons(usually a package) then if it sticks try and pick a board. You can try and rent the one you want to buy so you know you are the board you want.

Do both - why not. Chances are that it'll take up the snow boarding...

Can't wait to start my snowboard lessons. Waiting for the winter.