For many, skiing is an enjoyable and exhilarating pastime. Few things are more exciting than sliding down a mountain at high speeds. However, for some people, a trip to the slopes precipitates significant fear that might threaten their enjoyment. Fortunately, reluctant skiers might be able to overcome such fears by adhering to the following five tips.
1. Be Prepared to Fall
As with any new activity, mastering skiing (or even becoming moderately proficient at it) requires continual practice. Beginners shouldn’t expect to ski like Olympic downhillers during the learning stages. Neophytes will fall from time to time. Once you see that falling typically doesn’t lead to catastrophic results, you’ll gain greater confidence, and many of your fears will likely ebb.
2. Loosen Up
Skiers who hit the slopes in an anxious state are more likely to struggle. Moreover, nervousness often precipitates tensing, causing stiffening in muscles that aren’t in optimal performance condition. Skiing experts recommend conquering this potential pitfall by practicing deep-breathing exercises just prior to hitting the slopes. This simple activity sends positive signals to the mind, enabling you to break the tension and enter a more relaxed state.
3. Become Accustomed to the Equipment
One occasionally overlooked comfort measure is becoming acquainted with the multitude of necessary equipment, which includes a helmet, suit, goggles, boots, poles, and skis. Equipment should be purchased well in advance of any excursion. Experts suggest novices give themselves a significant amount of time to grow accustomed to the feel of the equipment and, most importantly, learn how to properly operate it.
If you aren’t buying your own equipment, find a reliable shop close to the slopes where you can rent skis. Mammoth skiing novices should rent their equipment at the mountain so their skis and boots are properly fitted.
4. Take Lessons
Many skiing experts advise against going on a skiing excursion with no experience or training. Instead, they recommend taking several lessons before hitting the slopes on your own. Receiving instruction from a more experienced individual is helpful in important ways. First, taking lessons can help you gain confidence. Second, you learn the basics and gain a better idea of how to handle yourself on a course.
An instructor should be someone with significant experience. Experts suggest taking lessons from a professional who possesses certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America. Moreover, the chosen instructor should demonstrate a personable nature and make you feel comfortable about asking questions.
5. Choose the Most Appropriate Courses
Someone who has minimal or no skiing skills shouldn’t take the runs or courses designed for moderate to expert skiers. Novices are encouraged to understand their limitations and opt for courses designed for people with lower skill levels. The more challenging runs can be pursued as your abilities and experience levels improve.
If you’re about to hit the slopes for the first time, you can allay your fears by following safety rules and making sure to start with high-quality equipment that’s fitted properly. ASO Mammoth is the place to go for Mammoth Mountain ski rentals, ski gear, and safety tips from the experts. We have everything you need to make your first time a memory to treasure. Drop in or give us a call at 760-965-3444.