Your First Time Skiing – What to Expect

*By: Megan Deppen*

My first time skiing was last March right before the pandemic hit and it was a warm 70 degree day outside. I remember feeling excited and nervous. Excited to learn a new sport, but nervous I was going to get hurt. Luckily for me, my husband was an avid skier growing up, so I had a great teacher. To my surprise, I only wiped out once during the trip and the hardest part for me was figuring out how to not fall getting on and off the darn ski lift! All in all, it was a fun day and I’m looking forward to getting out on the slopes again soon.

If you’re interested in skiing and this is your first time, here are a few tips to consider:

• Dress in layers – Depending on the weather and how much you are skiing throughout the day, you can be cold or warm, so I would suggest wearing layers. That way if you do get colder, you already have layers to keep you warm and vice vera, if you get warmer, you can take those layers off. It’s always better to wear more clothes, than to not have not enough. Some ski clothes basics are snow pants, a warm coat, gloves, and a hat. You may also opt for snow googles or sunglasses, to keep the snow from hitting your face and to block out the sun if it’s a sunny day. It’s also nice to have a scarf or face mask to cover your nose, because if you like me, my nose always gets very cold.
  
• Register for a lesson (if you’re able to) – Due to COVID, I know some places are only scheduling private lessons, which can be pricier. If you can’t get lessons, it’s very helpful to have someone with you that already knows how to ski.
  
• Practice walking in your ski boots – The first time you put on ski boots, it’s such a weird feeling and they are heavy on your foot. Practice walking in them a few times to get the idea of how they feel. Tip: Unlatch the strap on your ankles, when you’re not skiing to make walking easier.
  
• Know the basics – Some ski basics you should know is how to properly get up with your skis when you fall, how to pizza (also known as pie, plow, wedge), how to turn, etc. If you take some time to learn the basics, you will understand how things work when you get out on the slopes.
  
• It’s a great workout! – Skiing is a great way to stay fit! It works your arms, legs and core muscles. Don’t be surprised, if you’re a bit sore the next day.
  
• Want some more beginner ski tips? – Check out this instructional video before you hit the slopes.

Is this your first time skiing? Leave your comments below.