Following on from snowboarding 101, we present Skiing 101.
Let the snow and skiing bring out the adventurer, the athlete and the frustration in all of us!
Here are a few basic rules and tips to get started on your journey to a successful day on the slopes.
- Stay evenly balanced over your skis - Skiing can put you in an uncomfortable position until you are used to it. Keep your legs squarely under your torso with your shoulders pointing downhill will give you a stronger technique with more control.
- Don't look down - Don't look down at the tips of your skis, look ten feet in front of you. You can prepare for uneven terrain better, have a better sense of where you're going, and focus more on what's next, not what's now.
- Don't be afraid to fall - You are going to fall... a lot! If you can try falling to your side versus forwards or backwards and always get back up and try again.
- Get a lesson - An instructor can watch your every move to see how your technique can improve, where you're going wrong and what can help you get better.
- Bend your knees - The biggest and most important thing to remember when learning to ski! Bending your knees does a number of things. It forces you to shove your shins into the front of the boot, gaining more control over your skis. It also centres your upper body above your legs, keeping your balance. You'll also be more prepared to absorb small jumps and uneven terrain.
Practice is the best way to become comfortable on your board. Learning a few tricks such as 180 or 360 will give you more enjoyment and bragging rights!
