Free Glide

As of today, total runs scored per game are down 0.52 runs a game. Most people attribute this considerable drop in offensive production to the new steroids policies. We are entering a new era where pitching dominates and this will have a serious impact on baseball betting for the next couple of years. Relying too much on past trends and systems of even a year ago will hurt even the astute bettor unless they take into account some of the new trends and angles that we have seen this season.

The most striking statistic is that a larger number of games are resulting in shutouts. 11.1% of the games played to date have resulted in a shutout as opposed to an average of 9.68% over the past several years. This means that pitchers are more dominant than ever before.

We can no longer “expect” those miraculous 3 run HRs to help our game easily sail over the total. In fact, we would expect a larger number of unders now. Historically, over/unders rarely dip below 7. They would be 6.5 only when two potential National League CY Young award winners are facing off. If two great pitchers were facing off in an American League stadium then the over/under would rarely dip below 7.5. Therefore, any bet on the over deserves a second look.

Another item to note is a team’s performance after a shutout loss. These teams are 128-104 +24 units this season.

We have all heard the saying “save some offense for tomorrow”, well, going against teams off an outing where they scored greater than 10 runs is 117-95 +27 units this season.

Going for teams off a bad hitting performance or against a team off a good hitting performance has proven to be extremely profitable this season!

Although these could be aberrations, it is important to note current trends in the MLB when analyzing a game that one wants to bet on.

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The horse has quickly become a fixture in civilizations throughout history. Regarding Mongolian history, the bow and arrow, and the practice of archery, has become a similar symbol. Archery has been around in Mongolia since the earliest dated history in that region. It can also be traced back thousands of years in many regions, where it played a large part in the rise and fall of empires.

The Mongolians, throughout history, crafted composite bows for their troops. Made from wood, sinew and horn, it was glued together using a substance extracted from the bladders of fish. Due to the drying needs of the glue, a single bow could take up to a year to be properly constructed. The primary difference which makes the Mongolian bow unique, is the fact that the string rests on the limbs once released. The bows also tended to be slightly shorter than most, and the unique design got the most power and draw length it possibly could.

Mongolians wore a ring on their finger, to protect it from the string, and the release. Since their bows were drawn to a longer length, this created much more force. This in turn applied pressure to the finger, and this ring protected it from harm. These rings were normally crafted out of horn, with a tab pointed forward. Some rings had a notch cut out of the tab, used to hold the string. This way, the thumb never actually touched the string.

A European archer normally pulled their string with their forefinger(s). A Mongol archer pulled the string with their thumb, using the thumb ring. This thumb draw was a common practice used by Mongol archers. Gripping the string, the archers would keep their palm faced downwards, and their thumb fell under the arrow. The string, at this point, should be in the middle of the thumb ring. The index finger would then be placed on the thumbs tip and the rest of their fingers are placed into their palm.

When using this style of archery, always keep your arm perfectly straight and inline with the arrow when drawing. Keep your elbow inline with the arrow. This will mean you will have to lift your elbow up as you draw. You must remember to be relaxed at all times as well. Open your thumb and index finger to allow the string to fire. Pull your hand away from the intended target, to stop the string from sliding forward before it is released completely.

Archery Source is an informational site about Archery. Topics range from Archery history, types, sport, recreational, hunting, pictures and much more.

Nitrogen narcosis is a dangerous condition that can affect scuba divers, especially when diving deeper than 30 meters. The exact mechanisms behind nitrogen narcosis are still to be explored, but it has to do with nitrogen gas affecting the nerve transmissions in the body during high pressure. Nitrogen is not the only gas capable of affecting the nerve transmissions when the body experience high pressure; the same state of intoxication can for instance be caused by hydrogen and argon. Since the air inhaled by scuba divers contains a large amount of nitrogen (just like the air that we breathe above the surface every day), nitrogen narcosis was the first type of gas narcosis experienced by scuba divers, hence the name. Today, the condition is also referred to as Inert Gas Narcosis.

The effects of nitrogen narcosis are similar to the effects of anesthetic gas or alcohol. The well known diver Jacques Cousteau expressed it as the “rapture of the deep”. Since a diver needs to be focused and act responsible - and even more so at great depths - nitrogen narcosis can have disastrous effect. A diver can for instance forget to check how much air he or she has left, stay down to long or forget to do safety stops when ascending to the surface. Some divers have even begun to take off their equipment or tried to share their mouth piece with a fish. Nitrogen narcosis can also be lethal due to nitrogen poisoning.

It can be hard for the effected diver to realize that he or she is developing nitrogen narcosis, since the level of intoxication will increase gradually. It is therefore always important to keep an eye on your partner during the dive and try to detect illogical behaviors. Many divers regularly check the mental state of their buddy by showing the buddy a number of fingers. Before the dive, the divers have agreed that when 3 fingers are displayed, the buddy must respond by showing 2 fingers, when 8 fingers are displayed the buddy should hold up 7 fingers and so on. A diver suffering from nitrogen narcosis might calculate the wrong number, or display a number of fingers that is not coherent with the number that he or she calculated. The diver can also loose interest in carrying out these safety checks and ignore the buddy.

If you suspect that you or your buddy is suffering from nitrogen narcosis, you should immediately begin your ascent to shallower depts. Never panic and head for the surface as quickly as possible, safety stops are imperative. The effects of nitrogen narcosis will usually wear of as soon as you reach shallower depths, even if they are far from the surface. Sometimes an affect buddy can be very reluctant to ascend, since he or she is not aware of the problem. Before embarking on a deep dive, it can be a good idea to agree on a sign that means “Nitrogen narcosis, we must ascend”.

Never dive below 20 meters unless you have completed your deep-dive training. During the training, you will learn more about how to avoid nitrogen narcosis. A rapid descent should be avoided since it will make the pressure increase very quickly and nitrogen gas dissolves more slowly in the blood than many other gases. Nitrogen narcosis seems to be more common during dives where the diver has made a rapid descent, but it can occur even after a very slow descent. Many experienced divers recommend a descent at a very steady pace when deep-diving, since this will prevent any sudden changes and unbalanced solution of gas in the blood. This method has however not been scientifically proven.

Never use sedating drugs, including alcohol and marijuana, before you go scuba diving. Any sedating drugs will increase the risk of nitrogen narcosis. Keep in mind that THC is stored in your body for long periods of time. Sedating medications should also be avoided prior to dives, even when prescribed by a physician.

Read more about scuba diving and all the different forms of scuba diving such as cave diving, ice diving, wreck diving and nude scuba diving.

Skiing is a favorite pastime of many people regardless of where they live. Ski vacations are becoming one of the most popular vacation themes and with ski resorts located world-wide, it’s not difficult to take up the sport.

The origins of skiing are a bit confusing. Many different cultures developed ski-like mechanisms that resemble what we refer to today as “skis.” One was the snowshoe which could be covered by different materials, depending on the owner’s preference. One covering was fur and another version had moccasins attached to the top of the snowshoe so all that was required of the user was to slip their foot into it and off they’d go.

Skis have come a long way in design since those times and there is a brand, size and style for everyone regardless of experience. Depending on your skill level you can purchase skis made from different materials. Some skis still have a wooden core. The wood chosen in the manufacture of skis is normally either spruce or fir. Some skis have a combination of both woods. The middle core is normally surrounded by a high performance material; something that will enable the skier to glide the hill almost effortlessly. Two commonly used materials are glass and titanium. As a person gets a feel for skiing and the equipment they generally choose the type of ski that best suits them. It’s not uncommon for very experienced skier to have custom made equipment.

Some of the newer types of skis are shaped a bit differently than the traditional models. They are designed to be a bit longer and instead of being perfectly straight they are curved. The curves are meant to make the experience more enjoyable and less strenuous on the legs.

The skis aren’t the only things that you need when you hit the slopes. Ski poles are essential for the novice skier. They afford a sense of balance while you are learning the basics of skiing. Many veteran skiers forego the use of the poles while others never leave the hill without them.

Helmets may not look great, but they are generally advised if you are just learning how to ski. They offer you protection in case you take a tumble and if skiing is a new experience for you, falling down is to be expected. Helmets are also recommended for children. Children can have accidents while skiing and knowing that they are as protected as possible is very reassuring.

The type of boots and bindings you choose is dependent a great deal on personal preference. There are many styles and designs available and a good fit is really important. The better the fit the more control you have.

Once you’ve got your ski gear it’s time to pick a spot to indulge in your favorite winter pastime. North America has many superb areas for skiers and most of them are very affordable.

One of the most popular ski destinations in the United States is the state of Colorado. Colorado has literally dozens of ski facilities including several located within the Aspen Mountains. In addition to offering incredible skiing conditions, the area itself is beautiful.

Another state that is known for its skiing is Utah. Utah is home to the Rocky Mountains and people flock there each winter to take in the skiing. It’s a particular favorite for families as they offer ski hills that fit every member of the family’s experience.

You may not have to travel far to enjoy a day of skiing though. Many states have conditions that make skiing fun including California, New York, Vermont and Montana. With a little research and some planning you can have a perfect ski trip with memories that will last long after you reach the bottom of the hill.

More useful Information at: Ski Resources and Information

In preparing to take on the challenge of a first Ironman, I believe far too many athletes put too much emphasis on the bike they choose to purchase for the event.

Somewhere along the Ironman trail, many athletes have come to believe that the lighter, and more state of the art the bike, the faster they will finish the bike leg of the Ironman.

Nothing could be further from the truth. For example: You could put one athlete on a $10,000 bike and have him train without the aid of a proper diet or without paying attention to proper hydration choices and repacement drinks and the Ironman will spit him out like a cherry pit somewhere around mile 80 on the bike course.

Take another athlete and put him on a $800 reliable, average weight, used bike fitted with proper pedals and aero bars. Then have him pay particular attention all training year to proper diet, hydration, and raceday fueling techniques and somewhere around mile 80 of the same course he will call out “nice bike” as he passes athlete number one who is in for a very long, painful day.

Don’t get all wrapped up in taking out a second mortgage so you can buy that “special” bike that is 6 ounces lighter than anything on the road. After all, you’re going to be loading 5 pounds of water and food and gear on the thing before you even get out of transition. This is not your normal bike race. If you were just racing a bike century and that’s it, then that might be a different story. But that’s not the nature of this beast.

First of all you’ve most likely been bashed around for an hour or so in a wild free-for-all swim and for most of that time your heart-rate has been racing out of control. Plus, you still have a full marathon to consider after you get off the bike.

Your bike is just a small part of the Ironman equation. Don’t get too wrapped up in light and fancy and expensive. I know, I’ve done that.

I had my best bike leg ever and my first thought was to fix up the old bike and keep racing it. However, I let my bike supplier talk me into buying a fancier, newer model that was so much lighter that I would go even faster. I never, never matched that bike ride over the next 10 years. Even on bikes valued 10 times more than my old standby. It was probably the biggest single mistake I made in my 20 year Ironman career. I should have gone with my very first instinct.

For some reason, a bike will just suit you. It suits your style, ability and “fits” you like that favorite pair of runners. When this happens, hang on to that bike. If you have to, save it mainly for races and get a second bike for the bulk of your training. It will last you for years that way.

I’ve raced on more than one high-end bike that I was just never comfortable on, no matter how light and fast they were supposed to be. At first it may seem cool to be the recipient of envious gazes from fellow triathletes when they see you on your bike the week leading up to the race. You are the bike “king”.

Believe me, its not so cool when these same athletes pass you out on the course with those dreaded words left in their wake. “Nice bike.”

Every time you hear that, you will want to sink further and further into your bike seat. You will wish you were on a $250 beater. At least that way you reason, you would have an excuse for getting passed over and over again. There is nowhere to hide out there.

To save yourself a ton of embarrasment and humiliation, be sure that your ability matches the bike you ride.

All my bikes are gone now, except for one. That same old bike is in my living room on a wind-trainer and if I decide to do this amazing race once again, when I turn 60, four years from now–it will be on a very special, 16 year old bike.

My name is Ray. I’m a veteran of over 25 years of endurance events including 14 Ironman Triathlons. I have created a website full of racing and training tips for the first time Ironman.

The name of my site is “Ironstruck”, the address is http://triathlon-ironman-myfirstironman-ironstruck.com

You can also contact me with comments of questions at http://triathlon-ironman-myfirstironman-ironstruck.com/contact-me.html

Backgammon is a fun game that takes two persons to play it. It’s a board game that combines concentration and focus. It is somehow like chess. The basic principle is that you alternatively move the pieces on the squares of the board and try to get them from one part of it to the other. Each player has a color and he has to take into consideration when he makes the moves. The first one that gets all his pieces from one part of the board to the other and aligns them is the winner. These rules make online backgammon a very simple game that doesn’t involve as much thinking or strategizing like chess does. It is accessible to both children (who can learn from it) and to experts who play backgammon for money.

Online backgammon is one of the best ways to play this game for a number of different reasons. All you have to do is access any search engine on the Internet and search for sites which allow you to play backgammon. Online backgammon is more fun because it doesn’t have any of the inconveniences of the real life game. When you will take the decision to play online backgammon you will realize that it is one of the best moves you can make, especially if you’re a fan of the game. If you think it’s more difficult to play online, you are wrong. Any site that allows you to play online backgammon has specific instructions on how to follow some rules and enjoy yourself as well so, it will be easier than you ever imagined. A way to have fun, easier and faster is just a mouse click away from you.

Playing online backgammon is better and more fun than the real life game because it has more advantages and none of the disadvantages. The first problem that’s taken care of is the lack of a partner. If you want to play backgammon at home or in the park face to face with your opponent, you need a real life person because it’s a two player game. Playing online backgammon means that you don’t necessarily need another person to adjust his/her program and to make time to play with you. Having a virtual opponent means you will play against the computer. You can play against a real person even if you play online. There are certain online game rooms where a lot of people go to play several games they are passionate about with other people.

A disadvantage of the real life game is that you escape the time problem. Even if you have an opponent there’s always a possibility he will get bored and that can mean the game may stop or continue unpleasantly. When playing online backgammon you are the only one that decides when the game will end and how long it will last. Online, you can play 24/7 and you don’t have to worry about the missing pieces or about replacing everything in order when you’re done. Another fun thing with playing online backgammon is that nowadays the special sites have become more and more entertaining. One can have fun only by accessing the site without even playing the game. A problem with this type of game is that it is very attractive and captures attention for hours keeping the player in front of the computer. This way it discourages communication between people. Backgammon is a social game and, because it takes two persons to play, the two opponents have the chance to socialize and exchange ideas. However, online backgammon teaches you to focus on your target and obtain the desired results. Games like these are very useful for developing learning abilities like attention, perseverance and competition. They can even be a great encouragement for mathematical talents.

Playing online backgammon one can gain experience and probably get better at this game than the friends who don’t train themselves with a computer. This way the world of tournaments opens itself. Backgammon competitions are organized for those who are interested in challenges. Online backgammon tournaments are very popular nowadays for two reasons: respect and money. While in real life very few play backgammon for money there is a whole different story with online games. There are many who get addicted to playing online backgammon for money. Gambling is practiced by a lot of people today who are in search of new ways to earn money. They forget the main reason they wanted to win in the first and stop having fun. Playing backgammon for money can be considered a form of gambling. A paid account can be made on sites that accept online backgammon for money and the sum one pays is considered to be for betting. Playing backgammon for money is actually a good idea if you are an expert. There is no point in throwing money out the window so you shouldn’t play backgammon for money if you aren’t familiar with the game and the rules of the site. However, if you know you can win, why not earn some money and have fun at the same time?

It doesn’t matter in the end if you play backgammon for money or just for fun. It is a great way to spend your time with friends or home, by yourself and learn about some virtues like patience and perseverance. Backgammon is a very old and appreciated game with a life that has only brought joy to its players. Its existence will continue to bring joy to those who play online backgammon because it is now available everywhere through the facilities of the Internet at the simple click of a button.

If you are looking for online backgammon entertainment, news, information on tournaments or clubs this site can offer everything you need to know. You can easily have fun or play backgammon for money by simply clicking this link.