BASI British International Ski Teacher L4 ISTD // Mountain Leader MTA
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Conquering the Slopes: How to Overcome Fear and Enjoy Skiing

Introduction: Conquering the Slopes: How to Overcome Fear and Enjoy Skiing- 8 Tips

Skiing can be an exhilarating and enjoyable winter activity. For many people, fear can be a significant obstacle to overcome. Whether it’s the fear of speed, losing control, or the possibility of injuries, these concerns can dampen your skiing experience. However, with the right mindset and some helpful strategies, you can conquer your fears and embrace the thrill of skiing. In this blog post, we will explore effective techniques to help you conquer the slopes and how to overcome fear and enjoy skiing.

Conquering Fear in the Backcountry
  1. Understand and acknowledge your fears:
    The first step in overcoming fear is identifying and understanding what specifically frightens you about skiing. Is it the fear of falling? The sensation of speed? Or perhaps the fear of the unknown? By acknowledging your fears, you can begin to address them more effectively.
  2. Take professional ski lessons:
    Enrolling in ski lessons with a qualified instructor is a valuable investment, especially for beginners or those struggling with fear. A professional coach or instructor can guide you through the fundamentals of skiing. They can teach you proper techniques, and provide a supportive and safe environment. Their expertise and encouragement will help build your confidence and gradually diminish your fears.
  3. Start with beginner-friendly slopes:
    When starting out or overcoming fear, choose ski slopes that match your skill level. Beginning on gentler slopes allows you to gradually acclimate to the sport, build your skills, and gain confidence. You can slowly progress to more challenging terrain as you become more comfortable.
  4. Visualize success and positive outcomes:
    Visualization is a powerful tool for overcoming fear. Before hitting the slopes, take a few moments to close your eyes and imagine yourself skiing confidently. Feel the wind on your face, and experiencing the joy of gliding effortlessly. Visualizing positive outcomes can help reprogram your mind to focus on success rather than fear.
  5. Practice relaxation and breathing techniques: Fear often leads to tense muscles and shallow breathing, which can hinder your skiing performance. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation to calm your mind and body. By consciously relaxing your muscles and maintaining a steady breath, you can enhance your focus, reduce anxiety, and improve your skiing ability.
  6. Set realistic goals and take them at your own pace:
    Set achievable goals for yourself and break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small. By taking the process at your own pace, you can gradually build your confidence and skills without overwhelming yourself.
  7. Surround yourself with supportive companions:
    Having supportive friends or family members who understand your fears can make a significant difference in overcoming them. Skiing with people who encourage and cheer you on will boost your confidence and create a positive skiing experience.
  8. Challenge yourself gradually: As you gain confidence, challenge yourself by gradually increasing the difficulty level of the slopes you tackle. Pushing your boundaries in a controlled and progressive manner will help you expand your comfort zone and overcome your fears step by step.

Conclusion: Overcoming fear while skiing is a personal journey that requires patience, determination, and a positive mindset. By understanding your fears, seeking professional instruction, starting with beginner slopes, practising relaxation techniques, setting realistic goals, and gradually pushing your boundaries, you can conquer your fears and fully embrace the thrill and joy of skiing. If you would Remember, fear is just an obstacle waiting to be overcome. With perseverance, you can unlock the true exhilaration that skiing has to offer. So, gear up, hit the slopes, and let go of your fears as you glide down the mountains with confidence and excitement.

If you would like to book online coaching and ski coaching to help you move forwards then step forwards and email: [email protected] or book a discovery call.

Watch the video below to give you tips to overcome ski fear.

Skiing for Prostate Cancer UK – A Great Man We Lost Due To COVID19

Skiing for Prostate Cancer UK – Plateau to Summit Ski Adventures
A Great Man We Lost Due to COVID19

Where and when will these events take place?
New and for a part of this winter 20/21, I will be skiing for Prostate Cancer UK. I will be offering guided ski touring adventures, ski coaching, charity events and ski lessons in the ski resort of Tignes and surrounding areas. All proceeds and money raised will go to one of my late father’s charities, Prostate Cancer UK.

Life can be so cruel sometimes and so erratic. Tragically and unexpectedly we lost our lovely strong and fit Dad, the late Terry Cockle to the indiscriminate pandemic killer COVID19 last May 2020.

https://terrycockle.muchloved.com

With a kind and caring soul, Dad approached everything in life with good thoughts and an abundance of good humour. As a family man, Dad showed immense love, unconditional support and allowed us to go on our journey, trusting in us as we did in him. Life without him will never be the same and I will always carry him in my heart forever.

In the honour of my Dad and to all those people that have been affected by COVID19 and cancer, I want to continue my support and to raise further funds for one of Dads charities.

Therefore, this winter I am offering selected guided ski touring adventures, ski coaching and lessons where a course fee will not be paid or a percentage will be donated to Prostate Cancer the UK.

Where and when will these events take place?

Selected ski adventures and events will run through the winter season 2020/21 in Tignes and surrounding areas. Time allocated will depend on the snow conditions and weather. The details and dates of these events and adventures will be advertised on social media networks nearer the time. Keep up to date with these events by following us on Facebook or dropping me an email.

I need your help to run these events!!!

If you are keen on supporting families that have been affected by Covid19 and cancer and you would like to help me to run an event. Or if you are a guide or instructor who can legally work in France and you want to give up some time to help to instruct or guide an adventure please get in touch. You can message me on Facebook or drop me an email to [email protected]. ‘Together we can ski, have fun and make a real difference…’

For more details about Dad’s tribute and if you would like to donate please click on the logo below:

 

I will look forward to skiing with you. Together we can have fun and make a real difference.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Floss

Ski Touring

Jocelyn Cockle (Floss)
Director of FREEFLO
ISTD International Ski Teacher
MTA Mountain Leader