For beginners, skiing is sometimes a closed book.
But with a little preparation and the right know-how, you are guaranteed to succeed.
Skiing can be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, but if you've never skied before, you might be a little intimidated.
Beginners in particular can quickly become overwhelmed by the rules and technique required.
But don't worry: With the right tips and tricks, everyone can have a successful and fun day in the snow flurry.
Skiing for the first time: the right equipment is the be-all and end-all
First of all, beginners should get the right equipment to ski safely and comfortably.
The most important items are skis, sticks and ski boots.
It is important that you choose skis that are appropriate for your size and ability.
Ski boots should be comfortable, warm and have a good fit.
Good to know: If you don't have any equipment at home, you don't have to buy it expensively - much of it can be hired locally from a ski rental shop.
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Before you strap on your skis for the first time, you should find out about the technology and correct behavior.
© Michelangelo Oprandi/Imago
It is also advisable that you get ski goggles and a ski mask to protect yourself from strong sunlight and wind.
You also need warm and waterproof clothing to protect against the cold and wet – ski jackets and pants made of specially manufactured synthetic fibers are suitable for this.
Also make sure that the fabric is breathable or has ventilation openings.
Last but not least, don't forget gloves to keep your hands nice and warm on the slopes.
Ski courses for beginners prepare you optimally for the experience on the slopes
If you are on skis for the first time, you are well advised to take a ski course: Most are designed for beginners and teach you the basic techniques, for example how to keep your balance, take turns or brake properly.
The courses are usually conducted by experienced ski instructors, so that you can learn all the important techniques step by step from a professional.
Important content is how to control the skis and coordinate your movements.
This also includes learning how to use your strength and body weight to glide down the slopes safely and in control.
As part of a ski course, the participants are also taught how to deal with different slope conditions, recognize safety risks and behave in different situations.
This provides the necessary self-confidence to approach the matter with fun.
Even if you're already good at skiing, taking a course is a great way to improve and develop your own skills.
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Observe the rules of conduct on the ski slopes
Responsibility and caution are among the most important rules of conduct for skiers.
Especially when it comes to speed, you should let the advance shift work: Don't drive too fast and always keep a sufficient distance from other slope hunters.
Also, adapt your pace to the conditions on the track to avoid accidents.
This also includes observing the markings and information signs on the slopes.
Apart from that, the International Ski Federation FIS has drawn up an internationally valid code of conduct that you should study before you set off for the first time.
Among other things, it is envisaged that skiers may overtake from above or below as well as from the right or left, but only if they leave enough space for the overtaken to move.
Are you witnessing an accident?
Then quick action is required: Make sure that subsequent accidents are avoided and, if necessary, provide first aid or make a ski emergency call, as the industry
portal Snowplaza
informs.
If you've been in an accident yourself, you should do a self-check: Are you in pain?
Are you unable to move certain limbs?
If unsure, call for help.
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Safe on the go: How to stay fit while skiing
A day of skiing can be exhausting, especially if you are not very experienced.
So, to enjoy it to the fullest, you should take regular breaks and use these opportunities to rest, warm up, and eat food.
Drinking water is extremely important when skiing, as exertion and sweating causes you to lose a lot of fluid.
In order to always have something to hand, it is worth having a bottle – for example a thermos bottle – with you.
In this way you stay fit longer, avoid injuries from exhaustion and can enjoy an all-round successful day in the snow.
This article was created with the help of machines and was reviewed by the editors.
List of rubrics: © Michelangelo Oprandi/Imago