A Few Options for Learning

In order to reach a competent skill level, you have a few options: go to a highly trained and experienced ski instructor and throw lots of money at him; make him take you through every situation and learn his secrets. Secondly, you could, on your own, learn the basic movement patterns that work throughout all levels of skiing. For this you must have the patience to deal with the mistakes and the slow learning pace that comes with individual trial and error. The easiest way to learn is by reading how the experts do it. Then, assimilate this information and use it when you come across the problem. If the problem still has you stumped, then go to an instructor for an hour or two. Remember, you will be paying big dollars for the professional's help, use him the best you can.

When you choose the lesson...and you will, arrive with a specific set of questions. From, "Why can't I do it?" To, "Then what I do?" Very often, ski instructors can bring a person who has never skied before to the level of a three year veteran in a few hours. These instances are rare, but don't under estimate the powers of a trained instructor--he's considered a professional for a reason.

When you hire your instructor, just remember to get a level 3 PSIA instructor.

The South Americans have a very good method for picking their ski teachers. They will hire the fastest skier on the ski school staff. When I taught down in Portillo, Chile, the resort held weekly NASTAR style ski races. I was surprised that these races determine how successful you will be in getting private lessons.

The South Americans when signing up for their lesson simply ask who won the ski race last week and then request that instructor. The reasoning is sound: The best skiers win ski races. And after all, don't you want an instructor who not only tells you what works but also practices what he preaches? By the way, I made alot of money that season :)

Alpine Skiing School section in english version of WWW.SKI.BG is based on
"A Guide To Becoming An Expert: From First Time To A Lifetime"
by John Mukavitz Copyright © 1998