How to Compete in the Winter X Games

Decide the event in which to compete. Because the X Games are for extreme athletes, the events aren't as traditional as other competitions.

Learn the different events. Choices include SnoCross which is racing on snowmobiles, including aerial maneuvers. Skiing and snowboarding on downhill courses are ramped up by adding jumps, turns, rollers and gaps, much like mixing motocross and downhill racing. Super pipes competitions use the basics of skateboarding halfpipe; just add snow and use skis or snowboards. Slopestyle events combine downhill and varied terrain with rails, tabletops and jumps allowing the competitor to use more freestyle actions.

Qualify to enter the competition. Once you're invited to participate in the event, the hard part is just beginning. All of the other great extreme athletes are invited and the Winter X Games fill the first few days with qualifying events for everyone who wants to compete.

Brush up on the skill needed to compete in the Winter X Games. Not only does it take an athlete who's on top of the game to compete in the event, but knowing the right skills to get them to the final competition. Despite the fact that the event is all about the extreme, the basics are essential. Add to that the art that has defined you as a top athlete and work on those skills that characterize your personal style.

Get a trick in your bag. In fact, add a few new ones. It's the part that all the spectators come to see, that new, never-before-seen trick. It's like combining art and physical ability when you compete. Get creative and find that trick that can be done when the pressure's on and makes you shine like a star.

Know when to use the right trick. A mistake of many competitors is having only one great trick and saving it for the finals. With the competition so strong, having those smaller tricks to use in the qualifying rounds benefits you and then you can save the humdinger for the finals.