A spring skiing vacation can be just what the doctor ordered if you want to unwind, get some fresh air and have some fun. With changes in technology in the past few years, skiing has become a lot easier and if you have a bit of athletic ability you’ll catch on pretty quickly.

Here is the definitive UAEasy.com guide for entry level skiers. If you haven’t been too physically active for a few months it’s a good idea to start doing some basic ski exercises before your trip. Most skiing injuries are the result of poor conditioning.

For a few exercises tailored specifically to skiing check out http://www.skiexerciseworkouts.com.

Obviously equipment plays an important part in skiing. Assuming you haven’t skied much in the past, you’ll need to hire equipment. All resorts geared to holiday makers have equipment rental, with trained staff to kit you out. Here area few pointers.

First the boots. There are top entry boots, and rear entry boots. Rear entry boots typically have one clip or buckle, while top entry boots have as many as four clips you can use to adjust the fit of the ski boot. Most ski boots have a velcro strap called a power strap, across the top of the boot. Pull it tight to adjust the fit of your boots, so they are tight on your calves and shins.

You don’t want the boots to be too tight (and cut off your circulation) or too loose, which will impede your skiing. Be sure that you have room to wiggle your toes.  If the boot fits properly, when you do a partial squat your heels should stay put.  If your foot is sliding in the boot, re-buckle it so it’s tighter, or try a half-size smaller. A walk around the shop will prove awkward, but it will enable you to tell how the boots fit.

Obviously skis are an important part of the equation. Tell the rental shop staff what your skill level is (be honest) and what sort of skiing you expect to do.  You’ll probably want a basic all-round mountain type of ski. Shorter skis with more flex are generally easier to handle for a beginner. Other factors include weight, gender and snow conditions which can range from fresh fluffy powder to hard packed ice-like conditions. Again the shop staff will have a pretty good idea what conditions the slopes are in as it can vary from day to day and season to season.

Goggles are a good idea, they improve visibility and keep your eyes from drying out. They also provide a bit of a disguise if things aren’t going so well. If you need to wear prescription glasses while skiing make sure you have them with you when you try on goggles. Prescription goggles are available, but not likely in the budget for an occasional skier. A ski helmet might be a good idea. First, they add to the “incognito” factor, but they make a lot of sense for a beginner. Some jurisdictions are actually considering making helmets mandatory for obvious reasons. One of the big benefits of a helmet, aside from preventing serious injury, they are warm.
Ski poles are a must. As a novice you don’t need anything special, and the rental staff should be able to give you something that is adequate.

When booking your trip check out the availability of lessons. A lot of resorts offer a full package with a lesson each morning. You’ll be amazed how much you improve over a period of four or five days. Most resorts that offer lessons will allow you to move into a more advanced group if your skill level justifies it. With modern equipment, there is an inherent turning capability engineered into the ski and the learning curve is not nearly as steep as it once was.

The main things you’ll need to learn are turning both ways and stopping. An out of control skier is a danger to himself and everyone else, and resorts will not hesitate to take away your lift pass if they feel you are unsafe. You can also get lesson package for all members of the family. Individual lessons are an unnecessary expense, go for the group lesson and you make some new friends in the process. Make sure the instructors are certified. Even the most advanced skiers can benefit from a few lessons from time to time.

At peak times of the season, lessons can fill up fast, register on line rather than wait until you get to the resort. Often, children’s lessons will include a fully structured day, leaving Mom and Dad free to concentrate on their own fun.

There are a few things to consider when booking your trip. Regardless of the level skier you are, it’s important to check the statistics for the ski resorts you are interested in prior to booking your ski trip. All resorts should provide information on the current conditions, the base snow, the percentage of trails for each level skier (beginner, intermediate and expert) and the lesson programs offered. In many cases, you’ll be able to purchase a lift ticket in advance. Online purchases are often available at discounts, so booking online is a good way to ski and save.

If you are planning a family trip choose a resort that is geared towards families and children. Not all resorts are suitable for beginner skiers.  None of the resorts will turn down beginners, but some have more slopes suited to the novice. Also, particularly for kids, look at other non-skiing amenities.  If conditions deteriorate you may want to take an afternoon off and do other things. Related to amenities, be aware of your limitations, take a rest when you begin to feel tired, especially on the first day or two. Most ski accidents happen near the bottom of the hill toward the end of the day because of fatigue.

Remember; you’re the customer and the customer is always right. If you have problems with your rental equipment get the shop to check it out, they may have given you mismatched skis, or equipment that is not suited to your skill level.  Probably the best tip here is to ask around. Talk to friends who have had recent ski holidays, find out what their experience was like.

Don’t forget to brush up your skills or take a beginners course down at Ski Dubai to get a head start on the slopes before you go.
http://www.skidxb.com