How do I master variable terrain such as moguls?
First, recognize that skiing a variety of terrain naturally requires a variety of techniques. Slowly and patiently build confidence in more challenging settings by taking gradual steps. For example, if your goal is improved bump technique, look for easy bumps on gentle terrain, or a bump field adjacent to a groomed corridor that provides a graceful exit if needed. Don't set yourself back on terrain so difficult that it reinforces inefficient "survival skills," and don't expose yourself to unnecessary risk. Seek out specialty classes such as powder and bump lessons that focus on the skills you want to build. Observe instructors and skiers you like, and emulate their technique. If you get stuck, book a private with a favorite instructor. Finally, get in shape! The simple truth is that expert moves require an expert's strength.
What should I do to get in shape?
The good news is, the vast majority of recreational skiers don't need the unusual or special conditioning exercises sometimes featured in the popular ski press. The bad news is, most Americans are badly out of shape to begin with. If you're one of them, focus on the traditional basics. Develop a good mix of overall strength training and aerobics, and do what you enjoy--you'll be more likely to achieve the consistency necessary for proper conditioning. Most people probably need to work out at least one hour, three days a week to improve their strength and aerobic capacity, but if you haven't the time then anything is better than nothing. Consistency is the key. Consider specialized "dryland training" and new-wave conditioning methods such as plyometrics only after you are already in good shape. These opinions aren't intended to replace the advice of your doctor; always seek medical advice before starting any new exercise program.
How do I choose the right skis?
By this point you should already own boots. Choose your skis the way you choose a car: look for a model that's comfortable, reliable, and versatile in all conditions you're likely to encounter. Always test drive before you buy. Fortunately, quality among today's skis is uniformly high, so base your decision on price and preference. Traditionally, skis have been classified by turn type, following the disciplines of ski racing: slalom for slower speed, shorter turns; giant slalom ("GS") for higher speed, longer turns. (Racers ski two even faster events, super G and downhill, but skis designed for such courses are difficult to find and never appropriate for recreational use.) Recognizing that sport skiers encounter a much broader range of conditions and turn types than racers do, manufacturers now produce a dizzying array of choices, including learning skis, sport versions of familiar race designs, as well as specialty skis whose designs are as varied as the conditions skiers encounter. In general, choose a slalom type if you stick to the hard pack and prefer short turns or moguls. For most skiers, modern GS designs provide the best performance in a variety of terrain. Despite their names, many "extreme" and "all mountain" models follow GS design characteristics, but call the manufacturer to be sure. If you plan to own only one pair of skis, avoid specialty skis such as bump, powder and true race models unless their special designs reflect how you spend most of your ski time. A true race slalom, for example, is as uncomfortable in normal skiing as a formula race car in city driving. A traditional wood core usually provides the best strength, durability and dampening (a desirable quality), albeit with slightly higher weight and cost than foam constructions. Once you've narrowed the field by ski category and price, ask to demo your choices on the hill. You'll be charged in most instances, but many shops will apply the demo rental toward the purchase price of a new ski. Bear in mind that ski bindings can produce an enormous difference in ski performance; to avoid surprises, if you're buying bindings with your new skis (and you probably should), ask for a set-up as close as possible to the demo you liked best. Finally, do try the new parabolic or "shape" skis that almost every manufacturer has produced this season. Some industry observers predict that such skis will account for nearly all ski sales within a couple of years. Unfortunately, too many ski salespersons don't know one end of a ski from another, so take any ski shop advice with a grain of salt. Ditto magazine reviews, which are based on carefully culled (and sometimes pre-production) test skis, and evaluated late in the spring by editors who have already been briefed by company marketing personal about what to expect. Besides, they've got their skiing styles, abilities, preferences and equipment; you've got yours. Try before you buy and trust your own judgment.
How can I get the most out of an advanced lesson?
Once you've attained the level of an advanced skier, skiing styles, preferences and abilities began to vary widely. Your direction from here is up to you. At this level, reading a book will probably help you set some realistic goals; "Breakthrough on Skis" by Lito Tejada-Flores is one of the best. Watching other good skiers and comparing their technique with your own will also help. Are you a bump basher longing to carve GS turns? Attend a race clinic and learn to ski gates. Are you a graceful cruiser who wants to master the steeps? Choose a resort with lots of black diamonds and take a steeps clinic. If you're simply stuck consider a private, or if you're unsure where you stand take a group lesson in which you can watch other skiers closely. As always, demand the best from your ski instructor. Make sure he or she understands your skiing, helps you set goals, and gives you specific advice on how to get there.
Where do I go from here?
Get out there and ski! Although skiers sometimes wish it were otherwise, you can't learn skiing from a book, or a FAQ, or even by watching. You've got to do it, do it a lot, and do it with a goal in mind. What's magical about skiing is how much fun achieving new goals can be, whether it's mastering a new technique or conquering the next level of terrain. The winter environment provides the unique opportunity to enjoy the skiing experience, and the season's over before you know it. Share it while you can--see you on the slopes!
