Arthur,
I have found that most people do well on power stilts. On average a person is able to balance on them unassisted after 10 minutes. The exception is if you have a proficiency in any other kinds of extreme or balance sports such as skating, dancing or snowboarding, in which case you would be balanced in a minute or two.

I totally agree with the sentiment about trying them on, and if you can make it down to the DC area, let me know at: www.dcpowerstilts.com
I offer a free try-out lesson and have videos of people powerbocking for the first time on my youtube page: www.youtube.com/user/DCPowerStilts

They are basically one size fits all, so you're normal size wouldn't be a problem. The spring stiffness doesn't matter that much for a try-out, but if/when you get your own you will want to get them in 90120.

A bunch of us will be bocking at various locations in Manhattan on October 18th during BockNYC '08. You can find info regarding our anticipated locations that day and approximate times at www.PowerBockResources.com/BockNYC.htm -- though based on last year's experience, you can't 100% count on that itinerary. Someone will probably have time to give you an intro lesson on them and you can see what they are like first-hand. Just PM me and I'll give you my cell so we can confirm the bocking location at any time during that day if you are interested.

Another option for you is to take the LIRR out to the Massapequa Park train station on that Friday night (10/17/08) as we should all be in town bocking around, wreaking havoc and frightening small children. lol Again, best to call to confirm that day. Last year the Friday night havoc was pretty much rained out.

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