How to learn to ski as an adult?

Skiing is suitable for all ages!

And yes! Skiing is not only for the youngest. Depending on the age, the techniques for learning to ski vary. For example, adults do not start skiing in kindergarten, but on the beginner slopes of the resort.

"There is no age to start skiing, you'll see even with zero experience you'll have a lot of fun hitting the slopes very quickly!"

Going back to skiing as an adult, it's like riding a bike, you never forget!

You have decided to start skiing again? It will probably take you a few hours on the slopes before you get the right reflexes. Go gradually, and don't aim too high right away. Starting with the beginner level slopes at the foot of the resort is a good alternative to regain your confidence serenely.

A physical sport, but accessible to all!

Yes, skiing is a sport and you don't need much to enjoy it. If you are an active person on a daily basis, you have nothing to worry about.

If, on the other hand, you don't usually do a lot of sports, it wouldn't hurt to do a bit of a workout. For example, you can walk, run or bike a few weeks before you leave to strengthen your muscles. This will help you avoid some numbness and soreness after your first few days.

All options to learn: alone, with friends or with an instructor?

There are many ways to learn to ski. For the more daring among us, learning alone is an option. But it is not the safest option.

If you are going with friends who have a good knowledge of skiing and basic techniques, ask them to show you! They may not have the patience to stay with you all day, but they can share their experience with you. Learning while having fun is the key!

Of course, you have the possibility to take group lessons. Our adult ski initiation groups are made up of about 6 students, with the most homogeneous ski level possible.

Then you have the possibility to take a private ski lesson. This is the ideal option if you have a particular apprehension, or a particular desire. The instructor will be able to adapt his advice especially to your profile. This is without a doubt the most efficient way to progress quickly.

The goal is for you to be autonomous on the slopes as soon as possible, and to have fun.

The first steps are not to be neglected!

After renting your equipment, take the time to familiarize yourself with all your new gear. For example, how to properly tighten your boot, or how to properly fit your skis.

A very important point, which does not seem to be essential: no folded socks in your boots. Indeed, while skiing, you put a lot of pressure on the front of your boots. So if your socks are badly put on, or if you have a piece of your pants tucked into the boot, it can end up hurting.

Feel free to walk with your skis on the snow front, using your poles, to accommodate your equipment.

If you fall, get up!

Throughout your learning to ski, you will certainly fall a few times. But if you don't take too many risks, they will only be light falls.

"Even champion skiers started out falling, so don't be discouraged!"

No reason to despair, you can do it! The fear of falling is the main reason why adults do not start skiing. However, learning can be progressive and without risk.

So start small so you can fall as little as possible, and safely. If you can't stop, stay calm on gentle slopes. This way, you won't risk gaining speed and losing control. You will then have time to catch yourself and fall smoothly, if you are off balance.

Equip yourself well!

Comfort on the slopes is a key factor in learning to ski and progressing. A good ski jacket and pants will be of great help.

Remember to bring sunscreen and some change to reward yourself with a nice mulled wine for a well-deserved break.

What you need to know to find your way around the slopes:

To start, you can begin on the green slopes. This type of trail is usually free and close to the accommodations. Ask the tourist office to show you this area. Starting on these trails can also save you a few days of ski pass ;)

During your first week, we advise you to stay on the green and blue slopes, those ideal for beginners. Don't go too far from the center of the resort to start with, go little by little.

Adapted infrastructures and offers!

Take advantage of the advice of the tourist office to choose the package that best suits your profile.

They will also be able to direct you to the slopes and lifts best suited to your level.

To ski, you will need a lift pass very quickly. However, many resorts offer free lifts close to the center of the resort. In this case, there is no need to buy a ski pass.

No need to panic! The tracks are secured and supervised.

In all the resorts, you will find our good samaritans. The ski patrols are there to make sure that the slopes are well marked and to help you in case of problems. Don't hesitate to ask them for help to find your way back.

You will find in the resort large, easy to read maps of the slopes, very useful for reorientation. These maps are most often placed at the crossroads and on the main snow fronts.

For more information, please contact the Ski Family at contact@ski-family.fr.

See you on the slopes!