If you are a beginner skier, after 3 to 5 days of lessons, you will be able to start making your first independent runs on easy green and blue slopes.
Some resorts offer routes that allow you to tour the whole domain through its most beautiful viewpoints – on blue runs only. This can be an ideal goal for the end of your stay!
Even if it represents an investment, a few lessons with a professional ski instructor can make an enormous difference to your progress.
Taking lessons allows you to build a solid technical foundation. A ski instructor will correct you from the very beginning, preventing you from developing bad habits. This is not to be overlooked, as it can be very hard to unlearn certain bad reflexes later on.
To start skiing in the best possible conditions, here are 7 tips that will help you take on board your ski instructor's advice.
1. Learn how to fall
The first thing to know is that falling is inevitable when you are learning to ski.
Learning how to fall safely can therefore prevent injuries and make the learning process less intimidating.
Know that by starting on easy terrain and falling while bending your knees, your falls will be harmless.
We also recommend taking the time to warm up, or building up gradually on the slopes. Once your body is warmed up, there is much less risk of hurting yourself in a fall.
As a bonus, you can have your skis adjusted so that they release easily. This will help prevent injury in a fall.
And finally, it cannot be said enough: wear a helmet! It is the best way to avoid head injuries, one of the most serious injuries on the slopes.
2. Look where you want to go
Whether on a bike, on rollerblades or on skis… your gaze is certainly the most important thing when learning to control your direction!
Always look in the direction you want to go. This helps you maintain balance and ski more fluidly.
Looking immediately in front of your skis is a common mistake that tends to throw you off balance.
Conversely, looking ahead allows you to anticipate variations in the terrain, maintain better posture, stay aware of your surroundings and ski safely.
If you can only take one thing away from this article, it is: pick a point at the bottom of the slope and always look in that direction.
3. Steer with the centre of your body
Many beginners ski by moving their shoulders instead of steering with their knees and hips.
When you start skiing, it is hard to think about several things at once. You may therefore find it helpful to do certain runs focusing solely on the movement of your hips.
Finding your centre of gravity also works for some people and allows you to better manage your balance.
You need to embrace the idea that you steer your skis with your hips and knees, not with your shoulders.
To find ski resorts suited to beginners, check out our article:
4. Focus on your position
The basic position is as follows: feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, upper body leaning forward, and arms out in front.
A great way to check your position is to ask someone to film you during a run. You will quickly realise that what you feel does not necessarily reflect reality. Indeed, you can think you are bent when in fact you are as stiff as a board.
The classic beginner mistake is leaning back. This is often a sign of apprehension about going downhill. Of course, it is perfectly normal to be afraid of picking up speed and searching for your balance.
But leaning back greatly reduces your control of the skis. It is therefore a counterproductive instinct, since in reality the risk of falling is much greater when you lean back.
5. Breathe to support your movement
Beginners often forget to breathe while skiing. They end up holding their breath! This unfortunately increases tension and reduces performance.
Achieving a calm, regular breathing pattern helps relax your body and in particular restores flexibility in the lower body. Posture and breathing are directly linked!
A simple exercise is to breathe out deeply on every turn.
Conscious breathing helps regulate your heart rate and reduce anxiety. It is a great way to regain energy and focus fully on your technique.
6. Have the right equipment
It may seem obvious, but it is truly essential: the quality of your equipment makes a real difference to learning to ski.
When you rent or buy your equipment, always specify your level so you don't end up with a pair of skis that aren't right for you.
Skis suited to your build and level, comfortable and well-fitted boots, and warm waterproof clothing are all essential for starting skiing in good conditions.
7. Choose a resort that is welcoming to beginners
Skiing in a resort suited to your level allows you to progress at your own pace, in a safe environment designed for learning.
In some resorts, the beginner areas are particularly comfortable: spacious, sunny and away from faster skiers…
To find ski resorts suited to beginners, check out our article Discover 5 perfect resorts for beginners.
All of this helps create a pleasant environment for your first ski runs. Going too quickly onto difficult slopes can put you off the sport! Take the time to consolidate what you've learnt and gradually increase the level of difficulty. It's simple advice, but easy to forget when skiing in a group.
