The Whiteout Podcast - Episode 3 of 4 Script:

Dom: Hello listeners and Welcome back to The Whiteout Podcast, your go-to guide for all things skiing! I’m Dom publisher at inthesnow magazine and i love to introduce my trustee cohost, yes its rob stewart.

Rob: Hi listeners! Yes back again for episode 3 of our 4 part mini series of Skiing 101 in association with crystal ski holidays: 

Your First Time Skiing

be sure to catch up on the previous 2 episodes and while youre at it dont be scared to listen to our other 70 ish episodes!!

Dom: That’s right rob this 4 part mini series is designed specifically for beginner skiers, 

In episode 1 we covered things like understanding the needs of the people going skiing, thinking about kids and adults alike, the budget, resort options, travel options, essential packing lists and what else you can do before going skiing to guarantee a great holiday

Rob yes and in episode 2 we talked about how to choose the right resort and what accommodation might work best for you whether you're looking for an idyllic village vibe, vibrant après-ski, or the most beginner-friendly slopes, we gave you all the top tips, so dom whats this episode got in store

Dom:

Yeop well this episode its all about SKI LESSONS AND SAFETY 

The Importance of Ski Lessons for Beginners: When to Book and What to Expect

An Overview of Lesson Types: Group vs. Private Lessons, and How to Choose the Right One

Safety on the Slopes: Essential Tips for Skiing Safely and Responsibly

Equipment Basics: How to Choose the Right Gear and What to Rent vs. Buy

And insider tips from instructors on making the most of your lessons.

So let’s get stuck in, Rob! First up, ski lessons…

[Rob]
 Yep, Dom. Skiing might seem like a natural thing to pick up, but like any sport, there are skills and techniques that take time to master. Ski lessons are essential for getting those fundamentals right. While it might be tempting to teach yourself, this can lead to frustration, bad habits, and even injury. Ski instructors are trained to teach you the basics—how to control your skis, navigate slopes, stop safely, and turn effectively. With expert guidance, you’ll build a solid foundation that makes your skiing experience more enjoyable and successful.

[Dom]
 We talked about visiting the practice ski slopes in the UK before heading to the resort, and what a valuable resource they are. But once you're at the resort, it's very likely you'll want to take lessons.

My first piece of advice is to book your lessons in advance, especially during peak season. This ensures you get a spot, as lessons can fill up quickly, saving you the hassle of booking last-minute. Crystal can take care of this when you book your holiday, or later on after you've discussed with your group what everyone wants.

Another good tip is to try and book morning lessons. It might seem harsh to start at 9 am, but it’s when your body and legs are freshest. Afterward, you can enjoy a relaxing lunch and maybe practice what you learned in the morning.

[Rob]
 Proper instruction teaches you not only how to ski, but how to do so safely. A good instructor will teach you how to control your speed, navigate busy slopes, and respond to potential hazards. They’ll also ensure you have the right gear and understand the rules of the mountain, such as respecting ski traffic and avoiding accidents. Feeling confident and secure on the slopes is key to having fun, and lessons are vital in achieving that.

With a professional instructor, you'll follow a structured learning approach that helps you progress faster. Ski schools match your ability level with the right lesson plan, allowing you to start at your own pace with the support you need.

[Dom]
 One of the best parts of skiing is exploring a beautiful, snowy mountain landscape. But as a beginner, it can be intimidating to venture too far from the beginner slopes. A ski instructor knows the mountain well and can take you on runs suited to your ability, gradually increasing the difficulty as you improve. With lessons, you’ll gain the confidence to explore more of the mountain and learn which slopes are right for your skill level and how to ski them safely.

When booking a lesson, you'll typically have the option to choose between private or group lessons, both of which offer unique advantages. Private lessons provide one-on-one coaching where the instructor focuses solely on your needs. Group lessons, on the other hand, allow you to learn alongside other beginners, which can be encouraging and fun.

[Rob]
 In either case, the instructor will tailor the experience to your skill level. They understand that beginners don’t have the same level of comfort or experience, and will work at a pace that’s right for you. You won’t feel pressured to keep up with more advanced skiers, nor will you be held back by those who are less experienced.

Many beginners feel nervous about skiing for the first time, worried about falling or looking inexperienced. Ski lessons provide a chance to build confidence gradually. With each small success, whether it’s mastering a basic turn or learning how to stop safely, you'll feel more empowered. Plus, the encouragement from an instructor can make all the difference in boosting your confidence.

[Dom]
 Skiing is a social sport, and there’s an etiquette that ensures everyone enjoys the slopes safely. Your instructor will teach you not only the technical aspects of skiing but also the unwritten rules of the mountain. You’ll learn how to interact with other skiers, navigate crowded slopes, and follow priority rules. This knowledge ensures that you ski responsibly and courteously from the very start.

Taking lessons also connects you with other skiers and snowboarders who are learning alongside you. You’ll be part of a supportive community where everyone shares the same goal—getting better at skiing. Group lessons, in particular, offer a sense of camaraderie, and there’s something special about celebrating a successful run with fellow beginners. Your instructor may even offer tips on other activities at the resort, helping you get the most out of your holiday.

[Rob]
 When you arrive for your first lesson, head straight to the ski school base. Most resorts have a designated meeting area, where your instructor will be waiting, holding a sign with your group’s or their name clearly displayed. It’s a straightforward process, and ski school staff will guide you if needed. From there, the instructor will walk you through the basics, like how to put on your skis, move around on flat terrain, and fall safely.

[Rob]
 Once you've decided to take a lesson, you may be wondering whether to go for a group or private lesson. For beginners, group lessons are often a great choice—they're more affordable and give you the chance to meet others who are in the same boat. You'll learn at a similar pace, and it's a fun way to make friends if you're traveling solo or with a group new to skiing.

[Dom]
 That said, group lessons have some limitations. There's less one-on-one time with the instructor, so you’ll need to be comfortable learning alongside others. Group lessons usually last 2 to 2.5 hours, and you'll be grouped based on skill level. Some resorts even offer specialized group lessons for families, which is perfect if you’ve got kids learning to ski. Kids learn faster in a fun, social environment, so these lessons are designed with that in mind.

[Rob]
 On the other hand, private lessons offer more personalized attention and a tailored experience. With a private instructor, you can progress at your own pace, with the lesson adapting to your needs, whether you're working on turning technique, tackling more challenging runs, or gaining confidence. Private instructors also provide quick feedback, helping you make faster progress.

[Dom]
 Skiing is a fantastic sport, but safety should always be the priority. One key rule is to always be aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to forget, but basic safety rules apply to every skier. Never stop in places where you can’t be seen—avoid stopping in the middle of slopes or just over the crest of a hill. If you're sitting or standing, ensure you're visible to others.

[Rob]
 Another important rule is the right of way. If you're coming down a slope, it’s your responsibility not to hit anyone in front of you. Always be aware of skiers or snowboarders below you. Like driving, if you're behind someone, you must give way. Skiers coming from behind should avoid colliding with anyone in front and be responsible for their actions.

[Dom]
 And speaking of safety, always stay within your limits, especially when you're new. It can be tempting to try steeper, more challenging slopes, but it's best to stick to beginner or intermediate runs while you master the basics. It's all about building confidence gradually. Lessons help by taking you to parts of the mountain you might not visit on your own. Instructors know the area well and can guide you based on your skill level.

Poss get an instructor on Insider Tips from Instructors

[Dom]

Now, When it comes to making the most of your ski lessons, the best piece of advice I can give is to relax. Sounds simple, but skiing requires a level of relaxation in your body to stay balanced and fluid. Instructors often say that the more relaxed you are, the better you’ll ski. Tension can hinder your movement and make you more prone to injury.

[Rob]

Another tip is to focus on the basics early on. Many beginners want to rush through the fundamentals and jump straight into more advanced techniques, but skiing is all about balance, posture, and control. Getting your stance and movements right will make everything else easier. If you’re learning to turn, stop, or navigate slopes, it’s better to do it properly from the start, rather than develop bad habits that will be harder to unlearn later.

[Dom]

And don’t be afraid to ask your instructor for feedback. Instructors are there to help you, so take advantage of their knowledge. They’ll be able to spot areas where you can improve and give you personalized drills to work on, which will accelerate your progress.

So now lets talk Essential Ski Gear: Rent vs. Buy

[Rob]

When you’re getting started with skiing, you’ll need to think about gear. Luckily, renting equipment is an excellent option when you’re a beginner. Renting skis, boots, and poles is commonplace and is a great way to get started without the upfront investment and theres countless options in resort again all this cna be arranged well in advance and Crystal can organise this for you too. Plus, ski shops will ensure that your gear is properly fitted, which is critical for comfort and performance on the slopes.

[Dom]

That said, there are a few essential items that you should buy. First and foremost, a helmet is non-negotiable. It’s the most important piece of safety equipment, protecting you from head injuries.  All helmets reach basic safety standard so right from £30-40 upwards, obv the more you spend the more you get but all helmets will reach basic safety standards.

 It’s also worth investing in a good pair of goggles to protect your eyes from glare and snow and decent sunnies esp if you are going at spring time.

And don’t forget gloves and proper ski clothing – you’ll want to stay warm and dry. Layering is key here, and make sure your outer layers are waterproof to protect you from the elements.  Listen back to episode 1 where we take you thru an essential kit list.

[Rob]

For boots, it’s best to rent them initially unless you’re planning on skiing frequently. Ski boots can be expensive, and you’ll want to try a few different models to find the right fit. Having a proper fitting for your boots is crucial to your comfort and control. That said, once you’re hooked on skiing, you might decide to invest in your own gear down the line, especially boots, which can make a huge difference in your skiing experience.

A top tip when you rent boots, and you are putting them on for the first time, its tricky to know if they are too tight or if thats how a ski boot should feel and of course only you can feel it for real.

Dom

So Boots should feel snug and tight and you should feel locked in without your foot moving forward or back or up and down, your heel shouldn't lift,  but your toes shouldn't feel bunched up, pinchy or cramped.  Its a fine line, but the boots shouldn't feel sloppy at all like trainers!

if those boots arent comfy, its very easy to get back to the hire shop and swap them for another pair!  

rob

And a top tip for skis, as a beginner your skis should come to about your top lip / nose and no higher, shorter skis are easier to control as a beginner.

Now dont forget, ski hore and lessons can all be added as ski extras to all crystal packages - reps in resort, and the app will be there to help find everything in resort to make it super easy when you get there, so trust me, leaving it to Crystal to organise this is definitely a great option.

[Dom]

So thats it for todays episode 3 out of 4 skiing 101 for beginners

We hope these tips help you feel more confident and prepared for your first ski lesson, and that you’ll enjoy the slopes in a safe and fun way.

Big thanks to Crystal Ski Holidays for partnering with us to bring you this guide. We hope you found this episode helpful and that you’re feeling ready to hit the mountain. Whether you’re skiing for the first time or perfecting your technique, remember to always prioritize safety and have fun while learning.

rob

Our final episode in this mini series, episode 4 in 2 weeks time will cover 

WHAT YOU NEED TO PACK AND ORGANISE, AND HOW THE TRIP WORKS

In that episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of pre-holiday preparations and what to expect from day one of your ski trip. We’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure you're ready and excited for your ski adventure. Here’s what we’ll be discussing:

dom

• What to Pack: We’ll revisit the essentials, from ski gear to clothing, and clear up any confusion about what you can rent vs. what you should bring with you. We’ve touched on this in previous episodes, but it’s always good to have a refresher.
  
  
  
• Skis and Boot Hire: Wondering how ski and boot hire works when you arrive at the resort? We’ll break down the process so you know exactly what to expect when picking up your gear.
  
  
  
• Fitness and Practice Indoor Lessons: Are indoor lessons before you hit the slopes a must? We'll discuss whether it’s worth it to get fit for skiing before you arrive. Plus, a question for you: What if we could get Hemel Ski Centre to share this episode with their audience? Could be a great collaboration!
  
  
  
• Making the Most of Your Ski Holiday: Skiing is about more than just time on the slopes. We’ll talk about how to balance skiing with relaxation, downtime, and après-ski fun.  No phone, just mountains and fresh air laughs and great experiences you will never forget
  
  
  
• Arriving at the Resort: We’ll walk you through the arrival process, what to expect on day one, and what a typical day at the resort looks like from start to finish.
  
  
  
• Stories from Novice Skiers: We’ll share some personal experiences from beginners, the challenges they faced, and the unforgettable moments they experienced. We’d also love to hear from influencers or parents who’ve skied with their children (Rob and I both have plenty of stories to share here).
  
  
  
• Encouragement and Final Thoughts: We’ll wrap up the episode with some words of encouragement, helping you embrace the ski culture and make the most of your adventure. Plus, we’ll talk about how everything is made easier when you book with Crystal Ski Holidays.
  
  
  

Get ready for a fun and informative episode, and don’t forget—being well-prepared is half the fun!

 Thanks for tuning in to The Whiteout Podcast. Stay safe, enjoy the ride, and we’ll catch you in the next episode!

[dom]

Cheers rob until next time.