moosehead

MB's paragraph starting with "We Don't Waterski to Win" is poetic, and perfect. Thanks for being such a forthright and positive steward of our sport. Cheers.

As this thread shows, many athletes are still at it with fake hips, and it is becoming much more common for younger guys to need the procedure as we stay active. Either way, one has to balance staying active with the risk of shortening the lifespan of an implant and causing further surgery and much more restrictive physical capabilities. Key is to pick your spots and be smart, along with less throttle. Impact sports such as running and racquet sports are very harsh on an implant. So are windmilling falls at speed. I have a resurfaced hip that is 10 years old this year and have been able to snow ski, mountain bike, and water ski with reasonably good success. Suggest your dad look into the resurfacing method before he goes with total hip replacement, there are pros and cons to each. No affiliation here other than being a happy test pilot. http://www.jri-docs.com/about/MeetMDs/Pages/HarlanAmstutzMD.aspx. As mentioned, a ragdoll fall with one leg in could cause major damage and break the seal of even bone growth into metal mesh. In my case no shortlines at speed, instead I choose a loose front binding and RTP, wider more forgiving ski, and moderate speeds. Best wishes to your pops, good on him for wanting at it.

Thread Title, or at minimum first photo title, should be "Wood on Goode"

@TB and the rest of the Ballers - thank you for the detailed discussion and visual/mental cues. Back on the water for first time in 30 years despite lack of skill and a hip replacement. At first, it was to just cajole our kids into skiing, now it's also pure selfish enjoyment. Much appreciate both the noob and short line material in here.