The most important feature of learning any new sport is expanding your fear zones. When you tackle something that you are afraid of, you get jacked with confidence and energy, and your fear zone moves to the next level. This can be something huge or small. I spent an entire wedding learning how to hoola hoop (everyone got it but me). When I finally figured it out (with some good advice), I was so elated. I now have a quiver of hoola hoops and teach everyone. You can see the change in people when they figure it out. My other fear is whitewater kayaking, so I have been approaching it slowly (after almost drowning 10 years ago). As I make it down each little ripple, I feel better about myself, and my fear zone moves from Class II rapids to Class III rapids.

On top of it all, learning something new is what is so much fun, whether it is a new trick on skis or learning how to ride a dirt bike for the first time. You never fully accomplish something— that is what makes life so interesting. As you find the sweet spot, gain confidence and lessen your fear zone in one sport, it transfers to the next sport. Don't be afraid to be a dork, no one laughs when you are there to learn. Just think, would you laugh at them?

— Alison Gannett

READ IT AGAIN: PART I | PART II | PART III | PART IV