Ideal for those apprehensive about their first time on the slopes.
The European winter ski season is so close we can almost feel the snow’s glare, with early December traditionally welcoming the requisite white blanket with open arms.
This season is looking like a busy one, with Club Med predicting a record-breaking winter 2022/2023 season in terms of bookings and business. The beginner market is anticipated to be particularly burgeoning, with many seeking new forms of solace after a particularly tough two years.
Beginners skiing? Isn’t that a recipe for either disaster or steps and slopes taken so tentatively that the holiday was pointless? Well, no actually, if you follow these tips. But first, an introduction…
If you’ve recently developed a passion for skiing and you dream of hitting the slopes with your buddies this upcoming holiday season, then you’re not alone. In fact, 1.5 million Brits go skiing each year, with many taking a holiday devoted to snow and descents two or three times, annually.
Though mastering the art of skiing requires a lifetime, you can definitely amp up your skills and banish that apprehension via a few simple steps.
Should you be seeking that feeling of freedom, then read on; here are 8 tips for beginners planning a ski vacation, IDEAL for those apprehensive about their first time on the slopes.
Location Matters
What so many often fail to realise is that doing a little bit of research before planning your ski holiday can pave the way for an unforgettable experience. This isn’t simply about slinging on your skis and hitting the snow; there are resorts and runs to suit everyone’s needs, but they’re not always found in the same place.
If you’re on a budget, Eastern Europe boasts some affordable destinations. The Bulgarian town of Bansko, which constantly tops lists as the cheapest ski resort in Europe, is ideally suited for beginner an skiers wanting to get used to life on the slopes or test themselves a little.
If you have your heart set on the Alps for your first ski trip, then check out our guide to 6 of the best resort villages in the Swiss and French Alps for Ski Season 22/23; you’ll be surprised at the diversity!
Take Lessons From Professional Ski Instructors
One of the biggest mistakes that beginner skiers make is choosing to feel their own way at first or learn from a loved one, rather than paying for a trained ski instructor to show them the ropes.
However, the best way to ski better, quicker, and unleash your full potential is to take lessons from registered professionals in the industry. This will help you develop confidence far more efficiently, and learn the proper techniques and safety tips required. Though the initial investment is obviously higher, the pace of development represents value for money in the long run.
If you’re on a budget, then many providers offer ski holiday packages that encompass bed and board, ski lift passes and lessons within the same deal.
Familiarise Yourself With The Safety Rules
There is no doubt that skiing is a thrilling sport, but it’s also a risky one, hence, novices must not neglect the safety rules laid out by officials. By arriving early at the skiing destination, you will have the opportunity to get used to the area, which in turn will help you tackle slopes safely and efficiently. Remember that overexerting yourself and ignoring safety rules may result in injury or worse. So, before you go on your trip, research the rules of your resort in detail, and during it, pay close attention to them, too.
Exercise Regularly Before Your Ski Trip
Although people of all fitness levels can hit the slopes with confidence, it’s certainly preferable that you get in good shape before embarking on your first skiing adventure. Your overall health and fitness plays a pivotal role in determining how fast you can learn skiing. Regular cardiovascular exercise combined with yoga should be enough to prepare you for the ski season; it’s flexibility and fitness which will see you right on the slopes.
Always Ski With A Group Of Friends
This is an important tip that you’d be foolish to ignore, especially if you lack experience in skiing. And we’re assuming you do, since you here with us today.
Being a beginner, skiing the slopes alone can turn hazardous. On the flip side, going up the mountains with a group of friends will not only be safer but will also give you a huge confidence boost; that support network is invaluable up there. Make sure that you ski either with a skilled instructor or a couple of buddies who are experts in skiing if you’re to enjoy your first experience to its full potential.
Pack Your Bag With Nutrition & Hydration
Just like any other sport, skiing demands a lot of physical energy. Without proper nutrition, you might not be able to fully enjoy the thrill of skiing. So, pack your bags with nutritious snacks and drinks that will provide you with energy and keep you hydrated throughout the day. You wouldn’t want to find yourself short on energy and facing a long way down, that’s for sure.
Avoid Challenging Runs Initially
You’d think that this was stating the obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many novices develop confidence faster than their ski-lls, and end up flying down a black run chaotically before they’re ready.
Take note that different ski runs have different difficulty levels. Since you are just getting started with skiing, it is imperative that you avoid picking out challenging runs at first. Beginning your skiing journey on the wrong type of terrain may prove detrimental in the long run, and potentially put you off for life.
First timers should gather confidence on green runs, designed for beginners. Many graduate to blue slopes on their first skiing holiday, with red representing intermediate and black for experts. In a select few countries (Austria and Switzerland, to name two) with particularly perilous descents, orange denotes a level of risk above black. Finally, yellow signifies that an off-piste adventure awaits.
Ski Gear Smarts
Before you decide to fly off to your favourite ski destination, you might want to get properly kitted out for the winter ski season. If you want maximum value, longevity and durability from your purchase, don’t skimp on the quality of these essential purchases. Should you envisage this being a long-term thing, then ski suits, boots, fleece jackets and ski goggles are a must.
The Bottom Line
The European ski season is around the corner and people in different parts of the world are planning their vacation in advance to get the most from their time on the slopes. Being both a competitive sport and a recreational activity, skiing has become am obsession among thrill-seeking adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
For beginner skiers, it’s vital to consider the above tips to get the most from your new favourite pastime. Good luck!