Being scared on skis is no fun. It affects many winter sports enthusiasts skiing for the first time or clicking back into the slats after a long time. A violent fall can have unpleasant consequences not only physically but also mentally. Fear takes away the joy of skiing and can create unsafe situations on the slopes. A person scared on skis is more likely to have a skiing accident. There is no bite-sized cure for fear of skis, but you can work on your confidence with a few simple tips.
If you have not been on skis for ten years, starting on a black run right away is not wise. When you get to the top of the slope, you will almost certainly regret it and be scared on skis from the start. If you are getting acquainted with skiing, start on the practice slope and don't skip any steps in your learning process. Stay realistic about your ability and progression, that way, the fun of skiing will remain.
Don't expect to be able to go down a slope at high speed right away after taking a few ski lessons. Focus on learning the skiing technique well, and the speed will come naturally. Once you find yourself in a situation where you cannot control your skis at high speed, you can be sure to be in the grip of ski anxiety for quite a while. Ski technique: controlling speed (video) ›
Especially when you go on winter sports with a large group of people, it's hard not to be persuaded. "Try out the black run. You can do it easily!" Don't respond to cries like this, and especially if you are (still) scared on skis, just take the blue run that runs parallel to your friends' route. Group pressure can spoil the fun on skis after just one run. Know where your limits are, and don't cross them.
The most important tip we can give you is to take (private) ski lessons. A professional will know how to help you to get over your ski fear. If you are going on your first winter vacation, learning to ski with your friends may be tempting. Often this is not wise, as you may be taught the incorrect technique. Moreover, a ski instructor speaks to you differently, and under the guidance of a pro, you are much more aware of your ski fears.
The last tip for when you're scared on skis might be tricky because, of course, it's super fun on winter sports, but get plenty of rest! Through fear, but also fatigue, you no longer think clearly and are more inclined to take irresponsible risks. If you become overwhelmed by fear on the slopes, take a short break and breathe deeply in and out several times. You will find that you will ski that tricky slope much more consciously after that. If you feel you are starting to get tired, choose to end your ski day early. Skiing tips: Top 5 most common mistakes skiers make ›
I grew up in Slovenia, close to the Julian Alps. Early on, my parents put me on skis and skates, and the winter sports enthusiasm hasn't left me since. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and have been a keen snowboarder for the past 20 years.
