Check your equipment (and wear a helmet)
Before putting on shoes, it is important to have your equipment adjusted by a professional, as the bindings must indeed be tightened according to the weight and level of the skier.
In the event of a fall with incorrect adjustment, the ski may not come off and cause sprains, particularly in the knees.
We know it but it goes better by saying it: wearing a helmet also significantly reduces shocks in the event of a fall or collision.
It is also compulsory in beginners' lessons, snowboarding and in competition courses at the French Ski School.
More and more skiers are also wearing back protection.
Comfortable and practical to put on, like a vest, it also protects the spine in the event of a collision.
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Warm up and start slow
It wouldn't occur to you to start a football match or run a 100m without warming up.
However, on skis, barely out of the ski lifts, skiers set off on the slopes.
A few quick and simple movements to loosen the joints of the knees, wrists and neck before putting on shoes are enough.
At the same time, they allow you to enjoy the landscape.
Another tip, before attacking "the north face of the black run", starting with an easier route allows you to warm up your muscles and joints and to be alert once on more challenging terrain.
Know the basic rules
There are no "skiing permits" on the slopes, only 10 rules published by the FIS (International Ski Federation).
Among them we find in particular the rule of the skier located upstream on the track, who must adapt his trajectory and his speed according to the other skiers located lower than him.
By his position, he is the one who has the vision of what is happening and must therefore be able to act accordingly.
Similarly, intersections are places where collisions are more likely to occur.
It is therefore important when arriving at a crossroads to slow down and look up and to both sides before crossing.
These crossings are indicated by banners or panels.
You can ski fast, but you still need to have the technical level to do it with control and enough space
Control your speed
You can ski fast, but you still need to have the technical level to do it with control and enough space.
When the slopes are very busy, even good skiers have to resort to reducing their speed.
Overall, you have to keep in mind that you share the same playground and therefore be vigilant and benevolent towards others.
Do not cut the trajectory of a group skiing in single file, take a margin when overtaking... Note: in the event of a stop or break on the piste, it is preferable to do so on the edge and not in the middle.
You also have to try to always be visible: stopping just behind a bump or a bend is a very bad idea.
Read alsoSki touring: 7 resorts in the Alps where to learn
Beware of the last track
Listening to your body is sometimes difficult when the desire and the pleasure are there: the days of skiing are numbered, the days pass quickly, the rest of the group is motivated... But skiing is a sport that requires a lot of energy and concentration. .
In short, skiing is tiring.
The reflexes aren't there anymore, the body doesn't respond as quickly… So, if you're hesitating to make one last track, it's because it's better not to do it.
Save après-ski for après-ski
Skiing is an epicurean sport.
The mountain setting is conducive to relaxation, contemplation... and celebration.
The tendency for restaurants to turn into high-altitude discotheques significantly increases the risk of accidents, the cocktail of skiing-alcohol-speed being clearly not recommended.
If you have pushed yourself a bit, find out: it is often possible to descend via the ski lifts.
But the best way to enjoy the festive après-ski is to do it once at the bottom of the slopes.