The winter sports season is about to kick off. Numerous ski instructor training programs have started or are about to begin, both at home and abroad. To help calm your nerves, we’ve compiled a list of 10 important points to keep in mind.
1. The German Language:
If you’re taking a Dutch ski instructor course, you don’t have to worry about the language. Your course will be taught in Dutch at Dutch thermal baths. If you’re going to teach in Germany or Austria and are taking the German ski instructor course, you’ll need to have a minimum command of German. The trick is to speak it!
Put on a film you’ve seen multiple times and choose German audio, or choose a German-language film with Dutch subtitles. And on music services like Deezer and Spotify, you can listen to numerous German-language bands. Let the German language sink in and try to repeat the sentences. By occasionally speaking a few German sentences to your family at home, you’ll soon discover that it’s not as difficult as you might think. The important thing is to just give it a try, and as the saying goes: practice makes perfect.
2. Fitness:
As a trainee ski instructor, you’ll easily be on skis for 10 days straight. Your body isn’t used to this exertion, so it’s wise to prepare it. You can easily do this by visiting one of the many Dutch ski slopes once a week for an hour of skiing.
3. The Pizza Slice
Perhaps you didn’t expect it, but the most difficult practical element is the plough, better known as the pizza slice. The plough is used in both the Dutch and Austrian teaching methods. As an experienced skier, you rarely use this movement anymore, and you might struggle with it during your training. The solution is simple: during your preparation hours at the indoor ski hall, occasionally go down the slopes in the plough. You’ll soon find out whether you’ve mastered this beginner’s technique or not.
4. Clothing
Skiing is easy to warm up. But during your training, instructors will explain and demonstrate a lot while you, the participant, are standing still. Avoid getting cold by dressing more warmly than you normally would. Start with one layer of thermal underwear and build up to at least three well-coordinated layers. Synthetics on synthetics and wool on wool.
5. Teaching
During the training, the emphasis is not only on skiing but also on how to convey skiing to your guests. The Dutch teaching method pays more attention to this than the Austrian. Especially with the latter, it’s wise to prepare for this. You can do this by providing training at your own sports club or reading one of the many books written about teaching and training.
6. Equipment
: Completing your ski instructor training requires significant physical demands. You’ll spend many hours each day in your ski boots and on your skis, requiring perfect technique. Uncomfortable boots and skis that have seen better days won’t contribute to a successful completion of your training. Therefore, ensure your equipment is up-to-date and, if necessary, have it inspected by a professional before starting the training.
7. Food:
A ten-day training camp where you’re on the slopes and studying late into the evening is physically and mentally demanding. Take good care of yourself by providing your body with the right nutrients. Eat a hearty breakfast, don’t skip lunch, and end the day with a good, hot meal.
8. Theory:
Although you can hardly prepare for the theory that will be covered beforehand, it’s worth being aware that you’ll be presented with a thick textbook. Topics such as kinesiology, weather, children’s lessons, and snow and avalanche knowledge will be covered and examined. Don’t be alarmed by this, and pay close attention during the practical sections where all the theory is covered.
9. Après-ski:
It’s a cozy and inextricably linked to being a ski instructor. But one beer after a physically and mentally demanding day will do more for you than that one Friday night at the pub. It’s wise to skip the après-ski during your training and save it for when you hear you’ve passed the exam.
10. Enjoy it!
Ski instructor training isn’t a punishment. A whole week in the snow with like-minded people, and perhaps even a whole season abroad ahead of you. So don’t forget to enjoy it and have a great time!
Are you training to become a ski instructor this season?
Photo: Snowsports Academy