When you learn to downhill ski, you'll find that experts know everything. Expert skiers are intimidating. They dominate ski resorts, whizzing by inexperienced skiers who look on in envy at their speed and graceful movements. Beginner skiers could take some notes from expert skiers though, those who have spent years perfecting their skill and learning what works and what doesn't. Here are some tips from expert skiers.
Beginners Should Take Lessons
One lesson is good; three are better. Lessons help new skiers learn everything from getting on and off the chairlift to proper form. Though one lesson should help a beginner to navigate an easy trail, two or three lessons will make them easily handle a green circle and possibly be confident on a blue square. Plus, professional ski instructors can point out individual mistakes and provide pointers to help you advance more quickly.
Wear a Helmet
Helmets used to be rare on ski slopes. Not anymore. A helmet is advisable for everyone, but especially children. Head injuries are not uncommon while skiing and can cause permanent brain damage or death.
Learn the Pizza Wedge
It's called many things; snowplow, cheese wedge, pizza wedge, but the main idea of this skiing stance is that the front tips of your skis be touching. This allows you to have control over your skis while being able to turn easily.
Advancing to Parallel Skiing
Once you've mastered the pizza wedge, you'll be ready to point your skis downhill. Don't panic and remember that if you start going too fast, all you have to do is turn to slow down. Point your head in the direction that you want to go; your body will naturally follow.
Ditch the Poles
Many expert skiers advise against learning to ski with poles. They can get in the way and beginner skiers can rely on them. Save pole skiing for when you're a little more advanced and would benefit from the extra speed and balance that poles can provide.
Learn Ski Etiquette
You want to avoid crashing with another skier (or anything else, for that matter). To do this, avoid skiing too fast. If you have to stop, do so out of the way, after looking uphill to make sure there's no one coming at you. If you're coming up on somebody who is going to be in your way, or near it, call out to let them know you'll be passing. The best way to do this is to notify them of which side you'll be passing them on.
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