Alpine Beginner Lesson Overview

The beginner lesson consists of several key elements, and the amount of time devoted to each depends on many factors such as snow condition, weather, class ability, class size, and crowds. Experienced instructors know how to cover each element in a comprehensive SAFE and FUN manner. Our goal is to have the guests constantly moving, so be conscious of not standing around and lecturing.

INTRO

  • Walk the group away from the meeting area (Skis/Poles in hands)
  • Introduce yourself to the group
  • Have group introduce themselves and ask your students what their goals are for the day
  • Talk about Mountain Passport and give each student a Mountain Passport card


    • BOOT EXERCISES (optional) (5 minutes max)

  • Walk in circles/ figure 8’s both directions and up the hill
  • Hop on two feet and one foot (check stance)
  • Twist foot in snow to show pivot point
  • Check for discomfort

    • TWO-SKI GLIDING

  • Walk in circles/figure 8’s both directions and up the hill
  • Introduce side stepping
  • Introduce bull fighter turn if needed
  • Introduce straight runs (try to use 2 lines to facilitate more movement) (optional)
  • Try gliding across hill instead of straight down. This will promote steering of the ski(s)
  • Introduce gliding wedge

    • TURNING

  • Turning exercises (again try to use 2 lines)
    • Get the group to steer with 1 or both feet
    • Get progressively steeper for longer controlled turns
    • Stress turning to a STOP
  • Linking exercises
    • Use props (poles, gloves, etc.) as necessary
  • Depending the group’s ability, use the surface lift and make a run or two to gain confidence
    • Review loading and unloading procedures before getting on the lift

    MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE

  • Take group to the quad
    • Review loading and unloading procedures before getting on the lift
    • DO NOT reference the bar on the chair as a safety or retaining bar
    • Make sure the group understands where they should meet after they unload
    • Assign stronger students in front; instructor rides in last chair with weaker students
  • Review the responsibility code at the top of the quad
  • Move the group to the top of powder horn
  • Move across (not straight) the hill at the top of powder horn
  • Link turns on shallow part of powder horn
  • Discuss terrain options when you get to drummer boy
    • Discuss safety if the decision is to move the group to fanny hill
  • Move across the hill (drummer boy or fanny hill)
  • Try making the turn’s steeper and possibly a linked turn to a stop.
    • Stress turning to a STOP
  • Try making the turn’s steeper and possibly a linked turn to a stop.

    • CLASS WRAP-UP

  • Congratulate guests
  • Review class activities and milestones
  • Give individual feedback
  • Inform them how to practice
  • Point out slope limitations for First Class Lesson
  • Ask for questions
  • Re-enforce Mountain Passport Program!!