10 tips for booking your first ski lesson

No matter how easy skiing looks taking a lesson from a pro is going to cut down the time to learn the art of skiing or snowboarding. Here’s some tips to make sure you sign up for the right lesson the first time.

1. Learn the basics

Before you can land that 360 degree, mute grab, new school trick you’re going to have to learn the basics. Choose a lesson that will give you the basics of turning, stopping, and controlling your speed.

2. Consider a private lesson

If you are one to get embarrassed by falling in front of others or frustrated that others may pick up skiing or snowboarding faster than you then you might want to consider a private lesson to begin with. It may well speed up the time it takes for you to get the basics under your belt.

3. Do the math – not all lessons are the same

Find out what is included in the lesson. Does it include all the equipment to rent or is it extra? How long do the lessons go for? Is it private or a group lesson and how many skiers per group? Can you save by buying a package of lessons rather than one at a time?

Make sure you ask all of these questions before making a decision.

4. Consider the length of the lesson

Are you a quick learner, are you fit, and can you concentrate for a few hours, half a day, or a full day? It’s important to not overdo your skiing to begin with and make sure you enjoy yourself – even if that does mean drinking a hot chocolate or getting a head start on the apres.

5. Happy children = happy parents

Make sure the kids are signed up for lessons in the appropriate age group and ability. Make sure the ski area you are going to is children and family friendly.

6. Get instructed by a certified professional

One of the biggest mistakes you can do on the mountain is get instructed by your experienced friend, partner, spouse, or family member. Unless your experienced instructor friend is extremely patient its one of the common causes of arguments on the hill. It’s well worth the money to pay a professional ski instructor and provide that barrier of blame between you and your friends, spouse, partner, or family member.

7. Don’t be afraid to dump your instructor

There are different types of instructors at each mountain resort – some you will connect with and others you may not. It’s important to be with an instructor you are positive about so at the end of a day or session don’t be afraid to say ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ and exchange your instructor.

8. Book a group lesson mid-week

In off-peak times and weekdays its often that group classes aren’t filled to capacity. If you can’t afford or warrant a private lesson then you may want to try your luck at the mid-week under-enrolled classes.

9. Book before you go during peak times

During peak times lessons can be overbooked at many mountain resorts. If it’s your first time, make sure you book ahead of time either on the phone or online.

10. You’re never too old or too good

Don’t overestimate your ability and think you don’t need another lesson after you’ve got the basics of skiing and boarding mastered. There’s always room for improvement.

Posted by Brendon on August 31st, 2009 in Ski Tips and Snowboard Tips