Skiing How To

Before you hit the slopes

So, you've decided to learn to ski? You've taken the first step, but there's still more to do to ready yourself for the slippery white slopes:

• Hire ski equipment - If, or when, you decide you're a bonafide skier, you can buy ski equipment and clothing of your own, but until then, ski gear hire is the most affordable option. A rental package can include the basics - skis, boots and poles - or you can hire only what you need, for instance skis and poles only. Equipment is available to suit beginners, advanced skiers and children. You can choose to hire gear from a local ski store or from the ski field where you'll be based. The cost of hire will depend on the type of equipment you've hired and the length of time you require it (usually a longer hire means a lower cost per day).  Insurance is available too, at minimal cost. Remember to book your gear well ahead of time - there'll be no go on the snow if you're not kitted out with gear!
• Get your own basics - You'll need to invest in some warm, weatherproof clothing to stop the shivers on the slopes: gloves, hat, thermals, thick socks, warm sweater, goggles/sports sunglasses, jacket and ski pants. Jackets, pants and helmets are all available to hire.
• Arrange ski lessons - Make sure you know what you're signing up for when booking ski lessons. There should be a variety available - some will be more suited to younger people; some will teach a group, rather than giving one-on-one attention; some will include rental equipment in the cost. Ask questions: Who will be teaching the lessons? How long is each lesson? Is there a discount for group bookings or several lessons booked at once? Do they teach all the basic skills - ski control, stopping and turning? Once you've got to grips with the essentials, take time to practice on the beginners' slopes and enjoy the experience of sliding on snow.

On the slopes: beginners beware!

Never been skiing before? You're probably wondering what's so difficult about it (those people on TV make it look so easy!) or you're preparing yourself for the possibility of spending most of the day falling rather than skiing. Remember to check snow reports for updates on weather and snow conditions, and keep these ski tips in mind:

• Find the beginner slopes - Most ski fields have plenty of areas designed for easy skiing. Stick to this terrain until you feel confident you can tackle the steeper slopes.
• Don't be scared of the chairlift - Make sure you're holding your poles in one hand and have one hand free to hold on, then take a seat on the next available chairlift, just as you would sit on a chair. Put the safety bar down and point your ski tips upward. Once you reach the unloading zone, point the tips of your skis down and stand up when you feel your skis flat on the snow. Move aside so you're not in the way of others following you.
• Feel comfortable in your gear - Make sure your gear fits! Skis should be about 20-30cm shorter than your height (too long, and the front of your skis will be crossing while you ski). Boots should be snug, and not too tight or too loose (as a general rule, you should be able to wiggle your toes, but not slide your heel up or move your feet from side to side). Pull your trouser legs over your boots and slot them into the bindings of your skis (slide the front of your boot in first, then press the back down with your heel and feel it click into place).

Getting yourself moving, on skis!

Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for good balance, with toes pointing slightly inwards and your heels pointing outwards. With this stance, your skis should form a V-shape - known as the snow plough. Keep your arms and poles away from your body and carry your weight evenly on the ball and heel of your foot.

• Starting and stopping - Controlling your speed is essential for keeping yourself (and others) safe on the slopes. To slow down or stop, just move your toes so they point towards each other and push your heels further apart. Keep a 5-10cm gap between the front tips of your skis.
• Turning - To turn, simply turn your feet in the direction you want to go! Stay in the snow plough position for good balance, and turn your feet gently to one side so that your skis face across the slope, rather than down the mountain. Practise on an easy slalom course. Eventually, you should be able to turn more smoothly: with skis shoulder-width apart, turn your skis gently to the right, lifting your right arm and moving your head slightly toward the front end of your right ski.
• Be considerate - Think of others when you're skiing. You won't make friends on the slopes if you're out of control, skiing too fast, stop suddenly or loiter in the ski trail. Move to the side if you need to regroup and make sure you're always in control of yourself. If you need to pass, let the person in front know, and try not to collide with them on your way past.

Where to go for your ski holiday

Choose your ski field wisely - read reviews and find out which ski fields have conditions to suit your level of experience. Many have good beginner facilities, as well as slopes to suit more advanced skiers. 

 Looking for more information? Find tips for your skiing in New Zealand in the NZS.com directory.

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Sports images from Flickr: Whakapapa Chair Lift, Yachts and Cricket.