Bungee.netAn Introduction to Skiing
Skiing is becoming one of the most popular sports in the UK - even though we don't really have the snow to do it here! This sport can be enjoyed by all the family - from kids to adults - and it's becoming more and more common for people to take a winter holiday and to go skiing.
One of the big advantages to going skiing on holiday is that you can get as much fun out of the experience as a beginner as you will if you are an experienced skier. Ski resorts are more than capable of taking a group of inexperienced skiers and helping them learn the basics in one quick holiday. And, if you've skied before, then you'll have no problems. Bear in mind that some beginners also like to get some practise in at home on a dry ski slope so that they can get up and running quicker when they are away.
- Downhill skiing/alpine skiing - this is the type of skiing that most people start off with. You go up a ski slope (usually by chair lift so you don't have to walk!) and then you ski down the slope again!
- Cross country skiing - you may want a little more experience before you try cross country skiing as this is a bit harder than downhill skiing. This kind of skiing isn't just about shooting down a slope - here, you ski (as you might expect) across country, under your own steam and with no recourse to ski lifts!
- Off piste skiing - this kind of skiing does need more advanced skills as you won't be using standard slopes but will be looking for untouched snow.
- Freestyle skiing - this is a type of skiing that is best suited to experienced skiers. Here the skier will do tricks (such as jumps and turns) in the air while skiing.
Depending on the type of skiing you'll be trying out you may need different kinds of clothing and ski equipment as not all stuff is suitable for all kinds of skiing. Bear in mind - if you are new to skiing - that you can easily hire the stuff you need at your resort so you can try it out to see if you like it before you buy a load of clothes and equipment.