Skiing properly - techniques & basic principles
Skiing, whether in deep powder or on groomed slopes, is simply fun - given the fact that you know how to do it right. We’ll explain a few important basics to help you learn how to ski so you can safely and actively enjoy the snow in the mountains. From proper body posture to the technique of turning and mastering different types of ski turns, we’ll guide you on your journey to becoming a true expert on the slopes.
Important tips
- Short skis are easier to master than long ones
- Small ski areas for families are particularly suitable for beginners
- Give yourself time: the basic techniques can be learned rather fast, but everything should happen without pressure and at your own pace
- Fun and motivation: No one is born a master and not missing out on the fun is more important than to master the perfect technique
- Ski rental: if you don't want to buy skis, use the local ski rental shop and make sure to tell that you are a beginner
Skiing properly as a beginner: Tips and tricks for the perfect start
If you don't want to book a ski course and know someone who is already confident on skis, you can learn the basic techniques of skiing by yourself. In case you start to enjoy skiing, you can always take a ski lessons at a later point to improve your technique.
The important thing is that you take your time and have fun. You should also be patient with yourself and other people who are helping you to learn how to ski.
As far as your equipment is concerned, it is a good idea to start by renting skis and ski boots - there are ski rental shops in almost every ski resort and also in many towns via the DAV or sport retailers.
Take matters into your own hands: Can you teach yourself to ski?
The short answer is: yes! Of course, a ski course makes a lot of sense for beginners. But with a little help from friends or family members who already know how to ski, it is possible to learn the basics. In general, the younger you are, the easier it will be for you to learn the technique.
If you are a confident skier and your children want to learn, you can try your hand as a ski instructor. It's best to familiarize yourself with the basic techniques, such as the snowplough, beforehand.
The art of skiing: How do you learn to ski?
To learn how to ski, it is a good idea to start on flat or slightly sloping terrain. Strap on your skis and skate on one or both skies before you venture onto the first bunny slope.
The easiest way uphill is with the so-called magic carpet. This is a slow-moving conveyor belt that you can step onto and ride uphill at a leisurely pace. Use your ski poles to help you keep your balance.
Once you have reached the top, you can practise the snowplough first: this technique allows you to ski slow and controlled. Tilt your upper body forward and bring your skis into a V-shape while the inside edges of the skis dig into the snow. This also allows you to make your first turns by putting more weight on the left or right ski (always the downhill ski). At the same time, the snowplow is an effective speed control technique which also works on steeper slopes.
Perfect your turn: from snowplow to parallel turn
If you are getting more confident on skis and have mastered the snowplow, you can start practicing the dynamic and energy-saving parallel turn. As this technique allows you to ski much faster, it is best to approach it step by step.
When gliding sideways across the slope, place the skis parallel to each other. When making turns, switch back to the snowplow for a start. With time you can open up the snowplow progressively while turning until your skis are parallel to each other.
In a parallel turn, the skis are parallel to each other and the legs are about hip-width apart. Your knees, hips and ankles are always slightly bent so that you can absorb bumps on the slope better and improve your stability by lowering your body's center of gravity.
When you are in the fall line, the edge change takes place and you put weight on the valley ski to make a turn. It is also important to use your poles correctly. This helps you to maintain your rhythm and improve your stability. The pole is used at the start of the turn, always on the downhill side, and then you glide around the pole until you reach the exit of the turn.
Safety on the slopes: What do you need to watch out for?
For safety reasons: skiing can involve high speeds, and the slopes are often unforgiving, so wearing a ski helmet is a must. It is also important to keep an eye on your surroundings and always ski attentively. Mutual consideration should go without saying. A general rule: Anyone coming from behind or skiing faster than others must watch out of those ahead, as they do not see you coming. Abrupt lane changes should be avoided as well as stopping in narrow or places with bad visibility.
In most ski resorts, you will find practice slopes for beginners with moderate inclination apart from people who ski more advanced. This allows you to practise at a moderate speed and improve your technique before venturing onto more difficult or busy slopes. With a little practice, you can have a lot of fun skiing and stay safe on the slopes. If you are still looking for the right equipment, take a look at our extensive ski sports category!
