Last Updated2 June 2023

Getting Stoked on Skiing covers the core elements of what is most important in any ski lesson. Learn about safety, fun and achievement and how this will set up your lessons for success. Discover what instructor responsibilities are and how by meeting them you will create great lessons.

Enjoyment

“How was your lesson? Did you enjoy it?”

Students predominantly come to you to seek greater enjoyment of skiing. Whether they are looking for increased skill and challenge, better competitive results, or a greater appreciation of the mountain environment, enjoyment is key. If the lesson environment is not fun, they are less likely to progress and less likely to return.

What makes skiing fun will be different for different people. For some people just being active is fun, for some being challenged is fun, for others it is the learning and understanding that will be fun. Some students will simply find the social interaction of skiing with other people fun.

Identifying when students are enjoying themselves is important in understanding what motivates them. Smiles and laughter are the most obvious indicators, but be aware that some people may prefer to hide their emotions, so check in with people rather than trying to force them to have fun. As a general rule, if you are having fun then your students will be having a good time as well. So make sure you enjoy the learning process with them too.

“If your students enjoy the lesson, they will probably take another one!”

When safety and enjoyment are present the learning environment is primed and ready for success. Managing these aspects to create a positive learning environment is a primary responsibility of the instructor.