8 minute read
Alpine skiing for
Mom and dad teaching their young one to ski.
Alpi for ne begi skii ng nners
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Dave Brown
With winter before us, many are thinking of getting their children (or themselves) onto alpine skis for the first time.
It’s understandable of course, because alpine skiing (downhill skiing) oozes fun at every turn.
It’s probably the culmination of shopping for the right winter clothing, riding the chair lift up, up and up, skiing on trails among the trees, and finishing the day with an après lifestyle of food and drink by a toasty fire in a cosy ski lodge. Need I go on?
It’s an incredible way to enjoy the sun and slopes with family or friends, and in this town, the hills are everywhere!
LESSONS If you or the kids are skiing for the first time, you’ll want to take lessons. For me, it was lessons on Mooney’s Bay Hill with coloured tape stuck to the top of my poles to identify one’s skill level. I can’t recall how we got back up the hill, but I do remember learning with fondness.
Today, the ski hills in the region have all sorts of programs where you can sign up and get started. Choose a single or group learn-toski package to learn the basics of turning and stopping. You’ll have the options to rent skis, boots, helmet and poles or you can come with your own.
The ski hill staff members know exactly what to do to get you set up. For you or the kids, they’ll ensure you’re in the appropriate age and skill level.
You’ll most likely learn on the bunny hills (smaller elevation), so you can work on the fundamentals. {turn to p 17}
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Decide whether you’re more comfortable with private or group lessons. Some choose private lessons just to get started and then move to the more affordable group lessons. In the beginning, it’s about getting comfortable and then later it becomes more about practising and less about learning.
Instructors may vary, as every personality is different. So if you find you and the instructor are not gelling properly, consider signing with another male or female coach to get you ready for the sport.
With many ski hills nearby from which to choose (Calabogie Peaks, Camp Fortune etc.), and with lessons filling up quickly, book online or phone the hills directly and reserve early.
OTHER TIPS Once you’re confident enough to ski from the top, you’ll need to know some of the basics. This includes getting a lift ticket, how to get off the chair lift, etc.
Look for specials as ticket prices vary before and during the season. Obviously, you’ll pay regular price for weekends and holidays, but often mid-week day or night skiing, and spring skiing prior to the season
ending will afford better rates. Also children and seniors reap the rewards with better prices as well.
Staying safe is a big part of alpine skiing as well. Not only should you not stray from the groomed trails and always wear your helmet, but also you’ll have to be safe getting on and off the chair lift. Yes, you read that correctly. More than once a person has been too scared or got caught getting on or off the lift, bringing embarrassment as you get rescued. For your safety and honour, here’s what you need to know:
As you wait to board the chairlift, firstly remove the ski poll straps from around your wrist and hold them like you would normally when skiing.
Wait for the previous chair lift to pass and then follow the instructions of the staff. Obviously, while standing in line, you’ll have seen what others in front of you have done. When it’s clear, use your poles to propel you forward as you wait a few seconds for the lift to come behind you. As the chair taps your leg, sit back and then reach up to lower the bar. Rest your skis on the small T-bar step, enjoy the ride up and take in the view.
Now for the trickier part. As you approach the top of the hill, raise the bar and position your skis so you can ski down the tiny ramp as the lift pushes you off. Keep your balance and use your poles and perhaps come to a stop to adjust your gear before heading down a run.
Alpine skiing is blast. And with the early snowfall we’ve just had, the base is solid. There is much winter ahead and what could better than heading to the hills with family or friends and enjoying all the activities.
You couldn’t have picked a better time to hit the slopes.
Originally published in Dave’s Ottawa Citizen bi-weekly column.
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