Frost-bite related fun is hard to find in Shanghai; however, Yinqixin Indoor Skiing provides a pseudo-respite for savvy snow sporting folk. As the gradient of its slopes debatably reaches a three degree incline, imagination is a prerequisite for this adventure. Humility at your own veteran skills and a sense of humor are also required as your skirt skiers who've never seen (fake) snow and teeter precariously down the "bunny" slope to the tunes of Backstreet Boys and other pop icons blaring on the speakers. It's not Aspen, but it can provide a work-out (and a laugh) if you simply apply a creative approach.

To start things off, try this equally fun and dangerous game on your lift dismount. Get out of the over-zealous staff's line of sight and take the lift plate into both hands. Then, jump, twisting your lower body to the left to make a 180 degree turn. Let go of the plate with your left hand in mid-air. Don't forget to turn your skis or the only thing you'll be twisting is your ACL. There, you're facing downhill toward some confused yet very impressed local skier. Don't get too carried away celebrating your well-executed move the lift plate will hit you as it swings roundabout, turning victory into an embarrassment worse than a fall on the bunny slope.

Now that you're on top, give your partner in crime a piggyback ride down the big gals' run. Make it a challenge and do it backwards-it's the only way to break a sweat save of foregoing the lift and walking back to the top after each run (eliminating our first game). Everybody will clear the slope when you get going, so hit every man-made jump-or bump?-you can find.

Not so thrilling for the Tombas in the making but absolutely hilarious to watch and partake in is the human slalom-skiing around other skiers. Pick only those stable enough that your mere proximity won't wipe them off their feet. Remember, they are not gates, they'll keep moving and, no, you cannot hit them. If you're not down for going around those holding on to their polls for dear life, instead, give them a little chase. The snow is fluffy, so no harm done by accidentally sending them to the bottom a little prematurely.

If you can't get to the Alps this winter, take our advice, bring your fun-loving friends, get a decent helmet, and let the games begin.

Yinqixin Indoor Skiing
Location: 1835 Qixin Lu near Gudai Lu
Tel: 021-6478-8666

(City Weekend January 17, 2008)