Beginner Skiiers and Getting Tips

Beginner skiers are often toddlers but can be adults, also. It is a fun, healthy way to spend short winter days and enjoy the beauty of snow covered mountains.

Since severe injuries can occur, beginner skiers are strongly encouraged to take lessons the first several times they are on the slopes. Virtually all commercial ski resorts in the United States and abroad provide, for extra money, a professional ski instruction.

Beginning skiers are always taught on a small slope sometimes called a "bunny hill". Whether, young or older, the bunny hill is where you want to begin. Often, the new skier can climb the small hill to ski down or a tow rope is available to tow you to the top while you hold onto it.

The first thing a beginning skier should do is dress appropriately. Depending on the temperature at the resort, the skier should wear thin, warm layers of clothing and waterproof outerwear. The new skier should have a hat, gloves and good sunglasses for those very sunny, bright days on a mountain. A safety helmet is a very good idea for the inexperienced skier to prevent head injuries.

The new skier should have or rent ski boots that fit very well and very comfortably. The skis must also clip in easily and be the appropriate length for the height of the beginner skier.

Once the comfort levels are established, the beginner skier, in the lesson, preferably, listen carefully to the instructor and get used to walking and moving with the skis and poles. It takes a long time for it feel "natural". Most of all, have fun and enjoy the day!