Learning to ski or snowboard is easy when you begin with a good lesson. From edge control to goofy foot, you’ll learn a lot your first time out. Here’s a preview.
Both ski and snowboard boots are designed to hold your foot snugly to the surface of your skis or board. If your foot moves within your boot, your performance and control will suffer. Do your boots fit properly? Our rental shop crew will teach you how to get the perfect fit.
Are you regular or goofy?
In snowboarding, you’re “regular foot” if you keep your left foot forward. You’re “goofy foot” if you keep your right foot forward. Either is perfectly fine—you just need to choose the direction that is most comfortable to you. If you skateboard, you already know the answer. If not, try this simple test at home: Run and slide on a hardwood or linoleum floor in your socks. Whichever foot you naturally put forward is the foot you should put forward on your snowboard.
During your first lesson, we’ll teach you some basic exercises that develop your sense of balance and get you accustomed to sliding. We’ll help you focus on feeling the ski or snowboard’s “edge.” Once you learn edge control, you’ll be able to stop or change directions whenever you want.
It’s okay to be nervous.
Feeling nervous is a normal reaction to circumstances that are new or intimidating. At Timberline, we do our best to create a fun, safe and supportive learning environment for you. You’ll learn at a comfortable pace and will be encouraged to ask questions. Any nervousness you feel will likely be replaced by exhilaration and a sense of accomplishment once you achieve your first turn or descent.
Don’t expect miracles your first time out. It will probably take three lessons to reach a point where you can explore the mountain on your own. Just be patient. Stay focused. And enjoy the snow. Your instructor will help you determine when you’re ready to move on from the beginner hill.
