Alpine skiing in Nova Scotia is a sport for thrill seekers and adventurers. For beginners, it may seem daunting to watch pro skiers simply zip by while they struggle to remain in control. However, if you have decided to attempt alpine skiing, make sure you have a good pair of skis, ski boots, poles, waterproof gloves, pants, woolen ski socks, a helmet, coat, and of course lots of snow.
The following is a guide for beginners to help them get the most out of alpine skiing in Nova Scotia:
Take classes
If you have never skied before, it is a must. This will keep you and other skiers safe. Besides, an instructor can teach you useful techniques and also make it exciting. Avoid taking lessons from a friend or partner. A paid instructor is a professional who can teach you skills which your friends may mistakenly overlook.
Learn to stop
This is an essential skill in alpine skiing. You may notice some skiers spread their legs in the shape of a pizza wedge. This kind of position allows for more control on direction and speed.
Keep your stance mobile and centered
Keep your ankles and knees slightly bent. Place your weight on the balls of your feet, and keep movement in the joints. This will help you gain awareness of your shins as you press forward. This is important. You need to resist leaning too forward or back on your heels. Stay centered! Try to maintain vertical movement as you make turns.
To increase speed, keep skis straight; to slow down, open legs sideways and keep tips together
Going fast is easy. Simply keep your skis together. To slow down, open the legs sideways and open up the tails of your skis while keeping the tips together. This creates a big wedge and will eventually bring you to a stop.
Turn by stemming
While turning, pivot both skis in the direction you wish to travel. Ensure your legs turn before your upper body. You lower body should pivot or guide the turn. As you commence the turn, you may feel some amount of skidding. This is normal. Another method in turning involves pressing and holding down on your left big toe to turn right. To turn left, press and hold on the right toe. Don’t press down too hard. The pressure should be similar to ringing a door bell.
Getting off the chair
To get off of the chair lift, start by leaning forward and then standing up as you start sliding down the ramp. Do not attempt to use your ski poles. It will cause you to trip.
What to do if you lose control?
If you’re losing control over your speed, simply squat down and try falling to the side on your buttocks.
Alpine skiing in Nova Scotia can be an exciting and thrilling experience. If you are a beginner, be sure to take lessons from an instructor and master the technique of stopping, turning, and controlling your speed.