Learning To Ski

For most people learning to ski is fairly simple. Different skiers progress at different rates, but generally speaking after a week of skiing (with lessons), you will be skiing down gentle slopes and turning fairly confidently by the end of the week.

Virtually all ski resorts have schools with instructors who will help you out with learning to ski. If you are a complete beginner, it would be best to book a ‘learn to ski’ package. These ski lessons can either be booked with your tour operator or directly with the ski school when you arrive at the resort.

Ski courses

Ski courses are generally five or six days long and include hire of skis and boots, lift pass and your tuition. It’s worth noting here that you don’t have to invest in ski gear to start learning to ski. You can hire skis, poles, bindings, and even the ski clothing before making the decision to splash out on your own kit.

If you’re confident enough, there are 1 hour crash courses available so you can learn the basic rules and techniques of skiing. This is ideal for thrill seekers who want to try it their own way, but it may be worth sticking with someone a bit more experienced just in case.

Individual ski instruction

An alternative way of learning to ski is to get individual instruction. This can help you progress at a faster rate, but it is much more expensive and you miss out on the social benefits of learning as a group. After the falls, the frustration and then the breakthroughs, most ski groups bond really well and learning to ski in a group is a great way to meet new people.

Dry and artificial ski slopes

Of course, learning to ski doesn't mean having to go to a ski resort. There are dry and artificial snow slopes where you could learn. In fact, if you have the time, it’s a great idea to learn ski basics before going on your first skiing holiday. That way, rather than spending the first few days on the nursery slopes, you can join a slightly more advanced beginners’ group and see more of the ski resort as a result.