Guide Note

Snow skiing is a recreational activity and competitive sport which is characterized by its use of skis as its primary equipment. Skis are long, flat devices attached to the feet which help the wearer slide smoothly over snow.

Fast Facts

1. Earliest evidence of skis date back to 5000BC
2. Materials required: Skis, boots, binding and, depending on the type of skiing, poles
3. Types/variations:
   1. Alpine skiing: Skiing down a trail, run or slope
   2. Alpine freestyle: Skiing incorporating acrobatics and tricks
   3. Back Country skiing: Skiing from area to area
   4. Para-skiing: Skiing while pulled by parasail or hangglider
   5. Nordic jumping: Also known as ski jumping; skiing and jumping off a ramp for distance
   6. Nordic skiing: Also known as cross-country skiing; skiing from place to place on hills or flat land
4. Notable practitioners:
   1. Alberto Tomba
   2. Hermann Maier
   3. Michael Walchhofer
   4. Julia Mancuso

Tips for Getting Started

1. Sign up for lessons at your nearest ski resort. Learn to turn, stop and move on your skis.
2. Don't be afraid to fall, and if you do fall, fall to the side.
3. If you are about to crash into a tree or another person, don't swerve. Fall.
4. Start on the bunny hill. A small slope with a rope tow is the best place to learn how to move around on your skis.
5. Learn to distinguish trail difficulty. A green circle indicates a beginner trail.
6. Practice, practice, practice.