Skiing For the First Time?

Hitting the slopes for the first time can be a dangerous and troublesome situation for people of all ages.  We have talked to many people in Fort Collins and other areas of Colorado who are planning to begin skiing for the first time this season.  They are anticipating the opening of local ski resorts such as Beaver Creek and Copper Mountain, but are cautious about the sport itself.  Experts have recommended a few things for the rookies new to the sport.

The first thing they need to consider when planning to hit the slopes for the first time is whether they will be skiing or snowboarding.  Skiing was presented earlier in history and is somewhat more traditional, but has now been overlooked for the excitement of snowboarding.  Many people feel snowboarding is for a younger generation and has different dynamics than that of skiing.  However, studies indicate that skiers and snowboarders have equal demographic numbers and people learn to ski and snowboard in very similar ways.  The key difference between skiing and snowboarding is the person’s level of balance.  Skiing requires less balance and you can often ski with poles for additional balance help.  Snowboarding requires more balance and it is recommended to those who are comfortable standing on their own.  Your first step before you hit the slopes is to gauge your level of balance and decide whether you will be skiing or snowboarding.

Experts recommend beginners start with a relatively small sized mountain.  Before anyone was able to ski a steep mountain, they started off by mastering the “bunny hill” of the resort.  To be able to learn in the best possible situation, you should begin with a smaller hill and slowly work your way up to steeper areas of the mountain.  Almost every resort in Colorado has a bunny hill area available for beginners. Remember there is always the risk of getting hurt, so you may want to look into an Instant Life Insurance Quote before you begin any sports.

Rookies of the sport also need to consider the costs associated with skiing and snowboarding.  You will need to purchase a lift ticket to the resort you will be visiting, your clothing (jacket, pants, gloves, neck guard, balaclava, goggles, boots) and most importantly, your skis or snowboard.  The total amount of your ski trip could easily exceed $1,000 by the time everything adds up.  Experts recommend beginners start by finding an inexpensive resort and by renting all of their gear.  If they decide that skiing is not for them, they will not be out a large sum of money.  Fort Collins has many ski clothing rental stores, as well as stores that will help you pick out a set of skis or a snowboard.  For rental items straight from the resort, such as Copper Mountain ski rentals, you will need to contact the resort directly.  Enjoy learning to ski and remember to have fun!