How to Snow Ski

When thinking of something fun to do in the winter it can be a bit challenging. For most people, the thought of snow carries a negative connotation. For others, however, the winter provides a wide array of fun activities and sports. One of the most popular snow sports is skiing. Here is a basic step-by-step explanation of how to begin at playing the sport.

Things You'll Need

• Skis
• Ski poles
• Ski boots
• Ski coat, ski suit
• Desired underclothing
• Thick socks
• Ski gloves
• Goggles
• Suntan lotion
• Ski lift tags (if required)
• Bandaids
• Hand warmers
• Backpack with water bottle and/or snack food

Instructions

Snow Skiing Gear

1. Dress warm for snow skiing. Choose clothing that is loose enough for you to move about in. Also, choose clothing which is waterproof, such as a jacket or snow pants. Keep in mind that you will be very active when skiing. You may want to have a thin set of underclothing in case you become too warm for a jacket or snow suit. A good layer of clothing is important on a snowy mountain, however. When you are resting or going up a ski lift you may get very cold without the outer layer handy.

2. Purchase at least two pairs of gloves. If possible, purchase ones specifically for snow skiing. Above all, make sure they are waterproof. It is important to have at least two pairs in case one gets lost. Otherwise, you may get frostbite.

3. Choose a set of goggles to protect your eyes from the snow and sun. The harsh elements of the outdoors mandate the need for protective gear for your eyes. At the very least, wear sunglasses.

4. Pick out your skis from the ski shop you have planned to use. Make sure your skis are the basic skis used for beginners and make sure the skis are the correct length for your height. Have the associates help you determine which ones are most suitable for you. Remember to also pick up a set of ski poles.

5. Rent a pair of ski boots. You may want to rent your equipment until you are a more experienced snow skier. Make sure the ski boots fit you correctly. You may want to bring a second pair of socks to protect your feet and help for any possible adjustments to fit in the boots.

Starting Out

1. Remember to stretch thoroughly before starting this sport. It is common to be stiff and sore when first learning how to ski. Prevent any unnecessary pain by stretching your legs and arms.

2. Properly gear up, with your ski boots snugg but not too tight and your boots properly clicked into the skis.

3. Balance your weight evenly between your two skis and tilt yourself slightly forward for balance as well. Your knees should be slightly bent and your ankles should be ready for movement.

4. Carefully push off with one leg and/or your poles, making sure to not stretch your legs too far apart from one another. You may want to begin this step by trying this on a more even surface before trying it down a slope.

5. Push your other leg forward after your weight has just followed your intial push and repeat pushing off from one leg to the other. It is important to keep your legs pointed straight forward as you do this so that your skis do not become entangled.

Snow Skiing

1. Begin skiing down a small hill or sturdy embankment by pointing yourself to the side of the hill and pushing off slightly. It is important to not be facing straight down the hill or else you will pick up speed too quickly and likely lose your balance and crash.

2. Push off with your other ski, as you did learning to initially move about on your skis. You should now be moving to the side of the hill. You may use your poles in conjuction with your skis to push off and keep your balance.

3. Pivot toward the other side of the hill as you reach a point that you would like to turn. As you do this, shift your body weight and turn your skis toward the other side of the slope or hill. You do this by doing a slight "jump and turn" move. Jump and turn your body toward heading the other way across the hill. Make sure your skis don't get angled straight down the hill or you may get moving too fast for control.

4. Continue this zig-zagging back and forth accross the slope or hill. Try to keep improving your form and balance as you move.

5. Angle your skis less sharply and point them more toward a straight-down angle as you feel confident. The less sharply you turn each side the faster you will go. Conversely, you can slow yourself down by angling your skis again more sharply. Or, you can slightly turn your heels out and have your toes pointed in slightly to slow your speed. You want to make sure your skis do not cross when doing this, however. This form of skiing can be called "snowplowing."

Tips & Warnings

• It is important for safety reasons to always ski with a partner when you begin learning to ski.

• This article is intended to give you basic instruction in order to begin snow skiing. It is not intended to replace professional instruction.

• Snow skiing can be a hazardous sport. Use common sense and take responsibility when choosing this activity.

• Always have a third party know your location when snow skiing. If possible, even explain the details of when you plan to leave, what runs you plan to take and when you plan to return. That way, someone will know who you are if you have any accidents while skiing.