Downhill skiing is best learned under a certified ski instructor's guidance, but given the subtlety of the sport, it helps to understand its movement patterns before you reach the slopes. Unlike other sports, whose movements initiate in the large muscle groups, downhill skiing movements initiate in the feet. The sport requires you to surrender to, rather than resist the forces of gravity.
Step 1
Find a short, easy slope, which preferably has magic carpet access. Stand on the moving carpet, and ride to the top of the slope.
Step 2
Stand at the top of the slope with your skis pointing downhill. Pick a focal point in the horizon.This will encourage your body to move down the hill.
Step 3
Choose a line by assessing potential obstacles, such as ski school classes, children, lift poles, accidents or snowboarders sitting in the middle of the slope.
Step 4
Stand in a skier's stance with your feet placed at pelvic width apart. Shift your weight forward so the your shins touch the tongue of your ski boots.
Step 5
Flatten your skis and allow them to glide directly down the hill. This helps you establish your speed before turning.
Step 6
Tip your skis so that you are balancing on the little toe of your left foot and the big toe of your right foot. Your skis will turn to the left. Control your speed by remaining on your edges until your skis turn up the hill.
Step 7
Flatten your skis until they are once again facing downhill. Then, tip your skis so that you are on the little toe of your right foot and the big toe of your left foot.
Tips and Warnings
- Rent a ski, boot and pole package suitable for beginners. The skis and boots will be more flexible, and the skis will be shorter. Keep your hands in front of your body. Your peripheral vision should enable you to see both poles. When you gain proficiency, tap your pole into the snow prior to turn initiation. Tap your left pole to turn left and your right pole to turn right.
- Adhere to the skier's responsibility code. The downhill skier has the right of way, but avoid stopping in the middle of the trail and creating unnecessary hazards. Avoid upper body turn initiation. Do not look down at your skis.
Things You'll Need
- Alpine skis
- Ski boots
- Ski poles
- Ski helmet
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