Tips for learning to ski as an adult – part 2
However, find a flat snow surface for the first time to get used to the equipment. At first, strap on just one ski and try to walk a few times. Slide back and forth and when you're comfortable with it, strap on your second ski. And again, walk and slide until you feel comfortable on the two boards. Please try without sticks for now!
Sliding on the edges
If the last day of skiing was years ago, it is advisable to go to a straight surface or a slope with a very slight incline for the first time. The next step is to slide on the edges. A slight incline of the slope is necessary for this practice.
The skis are positioned parallel to each other. Now bend both knees slightly to the side of the mountain until the skis begin to slide easily on the edges. The upper body is slightly bent. Now slide a short distance. Repeat this exercise until you have the necessary security.
In combination with the above-mentioned exercise, you no longer try to slide on the edges towards the valley, but rather to ski forward on the edges. If this exercise feels safe, you are ready for a curve.
We are still on a gently steep slope. Skiing on the edges is now slowed down with a so-called "plow". That means, the body is straightened up, the mountain ski lifted slightly and pried out. You are now briefly on the inside edges, the pressure is applied by the heels, the weight of the body shifts to the mountain ski, lean outwards and slowly turn a curve.
Always maintain a compact posture – hands on knees, upper body slightly bent, the weight of the upper body should always be centered over the binding. The correct position for skiing on the edges can also be compared to sitting sideways on a bar stool. Butt towards the mountain and upper body leans slightly towards the valley.
- At the beginning, set markings for the start and finish.
- The compactness can be internalized by resting the hands on the knees.
- Try to trace a line with the sticks on the valley side.
- Also try, by holding the sticks with the tips up, to fix a picture in between, which you do not let out of your sight while skiing on the edges (e.g. trees, houses in the valley, ...).
With this in mind, I wish you a good start and a wonderful day on the sunny mountains of Ski amadé.
Ps: If that happens to you, simply position your skis parallel while sitting down, and stand up 😉
