What Is My Snowboard or Ski Skill Level?
There are many ways to rate your ability level. At Mountain High's Winter Sports Center we use a modified version of the one prescribed by the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI). If you have not skied in years, welcome back! Don't confuse the Skier Type 1, 2, 3 system they use in the rental shop, that's for setting your bindings! Always take time to consider your goals before meeting your instructor. Let your instructor know the things you like to do and any other sports or activities that you are passionate about! Are there any physical issues you may have? What kind of learner are you...A watcher, a listener or a doer? What got you excited about learning to ski, snowboard or take a lesson? It all helps!
Remember it is your instructor's desire to create a learning partnership...with you!
Where Do I Fit In?
First-timer. I need to learn speed control and to stop.
I need to work on my turns on groomed Green runs.
I need to work on my turns on groomed Blue runs.
I need to work on my turns on groomed Black runs.
The Learning Curve
New Technology and teaching methods have made learning to ski and snowboard easier than ever! Like every endeavor, you may progress quickly then plateau until the next breakthrough occurs. There is no preconceived time line. You may progress more than one level during a lesson or comfortably repose at one level for a few lessons before '"breaking through." For First timers, we believe that after 2 lessons and some practice, the average adult should be an "independent" Green level skier or rider.
Many factors affect your personal learning curve, including fitness and background. Transferring skills developed in "balance sports" will usually accelerate skill acquisition in snow sports. Inline skaters tend to learn to ski sooner. Skateboarders tend to learn to ride easier. Young children tend to progress more effectively learning the symmetrical movement patterns of skiing with independent leg action than riding which requires asymmetric movement in a fixed stance.
All of our programs are designed with the intent to fast-track those who are ready, create breakthroughs for the capable intermediate and appropriately pace even the most timid newcomer.
