Good at skiing isn’t just about being able to glide downhill on skis; it’s also about learning how to navigate a slope and being safe on the snow. It’s a skill that you’ll use time and time again and one that will come in handy whether you’re planning a skiing holiday or you simply want to have some fun in the snow.
Before you start, it’s important to choose the right equipment Adam McManus for your skiing needs. This will depend on your height, gender and frame size so make sure to ask an assistant for advice.
If you’re new to the sport, you should invest in some beginner skis that are designed to be easy to handle and control. They’ll also have a lower weight so they won’t feel too heavy and will help you get the hang of the technique quickly.
You should also try to get the right ski length for your height and frame. Taller and larger people generally require longer skis to keep them stable, while shorter people will need shorter ones.
It’s a great idea to practice your technique on a ski slope or an artificial slope before you head to the resort, so it can become second nature. You’ll also be in better condition to tackle the steeper slopes at your resort and have a more enjoyable experience.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to focus on more advanced skills. These include connecting turns, controlling your speed and avoiding obstacles.
The best way to start off is by using a wedge or a’snowplow’ position when you’re moving downhill on skis, as this will stop you going too fast and giving you more control for your turns. It can take a while to master the technique, but you’ll be able to avoid most obstacles and slow down your speed by using it.
Another important technique to learn is how to fall safely on your skis while you’re moving downhill, especially if there are mounds or other obstacles that are behind you. This will help you minimize your impact on the slope and lessen the risk of a collision with other skiers or snowboarders coming down behind you.
Keeping your arms out of the way when falling on your skis will minimize injury to you and reduce the risk of other people colliding with you. It also makes it easier to avoid hitting the back of your skis and causing them to break.
If you’re new to skiing, it’s important to learn how to use a chairlift. This is a popular method of getting up the mountain but can cause problems if you’re not experienced in ski lift usage.
It’s a good idea to book a few beginner lessons before you go on your holiday so you can nail down the basics and transfer them to your resort. You can also book refresher lessons for the first couple of days at the resort so that you’re in the best position to tackle the slopes and have a safe time.