Are those birds? Are they planes? No, they are paragliders. On Sunday, May 22nd 20005, paragliders in Switzerland competed above the Swiss Alps at the Paragliding Championships near Lenk.

Martin Scheel captured fellow paragliders ahead.

In addition to being the "Rugged Elegant Photo of The Day" Scheel's image has become one of Yahoo's Most Popular Photos.

Rougemont, Vaud, Switzerland, Fine Art Print by Martin Moos

Last June, Mike Meier and Mark Stucky released a book called Paragliding: A Pilot's Training Manual.

Mike Masterson, an instructor at West Coast Paragliding, Big Air Forum called Meier and Stucky's book: "Brilliant!" Masterson said, "The book presents the technical info in a progressive and organized manner that is not geeky, boring or intimidating."

A Pilot's Training Manual is a complete resource for both new students of paragliding and experienced pilots looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of this dynamic sport. The book covers all of the basic essentials of aerodynamics and principles of flight, along with pilot techniques from the beginner through expert level.

The author, a U.S. Air Force test pilot, demonstrates maneuvers such as stalls, spins, and collapses as well as launching, landing and thermalling.

Included with the book is a bonus DVD with 80 minutes of instructional video.

Whether you're a novice or a pro competing in Switzerland it sounds like this is the "must have" book for anyone interested in trying their hands at paragliding.

Inspire & Be Inspired.

Here's to healthy, adventuresome, soulful, "sailing about the alps" living!

~ Jennifer Carolyn King, Rugged Elegance, LLC