Skiing Lessons - Learning the skills that will last a lifetime
Skiing is a sport that can be learnt early and enjoyed well into later life. Many of the major ski resorts will have some form of ski school with qualified instructors who can teach novices in groups, or on a one to one basis. Learning to ski can begin at a very early age and ski schools such as Les Deux Alpes in France and Cortina D'ampezzo in Italy will teach children from as early as three years old, which is an excellent age for children to experience the sport. Skiing lessons do not just need to focus on the beginner, or on just skiing, schools such as The Italian Ski School (Scuola Nazionale Italiana di Sci) offer specialist instruction including lessons on snowboarding, hand-gliding and para-gliding.
Skiing Lessons - Choose a resort to suit your skills
Not all resorts will offer skiing lessons or have facilities for the beginner; some resorts are geared specifically for the advanced skier. Always check before booking a ski holiday if skiing lessons are offered, or if a skiing school is incorporated in the resort. Europe boasts plenty of resorts where the beginner can learn to ski at a very affordable price. St. Anton has one of the largest ski schools in Austria and is great for beginners and intermediates, and Kitzbuhel has a ski school that gives group classes in off-track skiing. For a skill that can a lifetime the prices are surprisingly inexpensive, equipment hire can be included and a days teaching will usually cost around the same price as one or two driving lessons.
Skiing Lessons - The questions to ask
Make sure you are fully aware before you book exactly what the ski school offers and what age ranges the school caters to. If you are taking a family holiday always inquire if the resort has bunny slopes where younger children can learn to ski. If you are concerned about the price, ask if equipment and rental are included in the price of the lessons, and if you would feel more comfortable taking private lessons, do remember that these will be more expensive than group lessons. Remember to check if the ski instructors are certified by some form of professional body, this will ensure that you get the best in both teaching and safety precautions. Always make sure that you have up to date holiday medical insurance and remember, falling down is part of the fun when learning to ski, so have a camera handy.
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