Nothing is worse than getting (metaphorical) cold feet on the mountains. Skiing is not a piece of cake and is a quite challenging task. Sailing on the mountain slopes might excite you, or it might fill you with fear. Whatever the case may be, here are some ways that will prepare you well and help to eliminate all the fear.

Hire a professional

You should not rely on friends and family when it comes to learning to ski and should hire a professional for the same. The reason for this is that you might pick on their wrong tricks and that might not end well. Also, do not try and copy the more advanced moves of your friends and family till the time you gain some confidence over your skills.

Exercise before you Go

Start preparing a couple of weeks prior to hitting the mountains. It will boost your self-confidence and strengthen your muscles as well. You will ski for longer durations and will recover quickly by the end of each day.

Try practicing Indoor

There are many places that offer training for first-time skiers to work on the skills and fear of the first-timers. The trainers are experienced and will guide you through the kit as well. Practicing indoor before getting on the slopes will help be acquainted with the challenges that may come your way.

Get used to the Equipment

Before heading for a sport that is completely new for you, try on the equipment and become comfortable in them. You may try the ski boots and try to maintain balance as you walk on a flat surface, before trying it directly on the inclination.

Keep your Instructor informed

If there are certain fears or doubts that you are bothering you, make sure that your instructor is well aware of them, so they can train you accordingly.

Prepare yourself Mentally

Most of the successful skiers are successful because of the right attitude. It is really important to keep a positive mental state and keep in mind that you are skiing to have fun. Half of the battle is won, if you have conquered your mind.

Invest in Good Goggles

You will enjoy skiing better, when the lenses don’t steam up and are appropriate for the light. If you are not able to figure out that you are heading on an inclination or a flat surface can make the experience go bad.

Pick a Ski School that Teaches in your language

This might sound obvious, but it's always good to check that your ski school speaks your language. Your training will be hampered, to say the least, if you turn up and find that you can't speak with your instructor!

Strengthen your Core

Skiing is all about balance. A strong core will help keep you balanced and upright. In bad light, keeping your arms in view can help with balance too. If you can see your hands, you will be more stable and less likely to fall over.

Relax

Most injuries occur when the skier is tense and the body is stiff. Try to relax and keep your muscles loose to avoid falls.

Have Fun

Always remember that you are here to have fun. Smile forcibly at first, if you find difficulty in the beginning, you will start to enjoy the sensation in the snow soon.

Take Deep Breaths

Before you start and the anxiety takes over, make sure you take a few deep breaths to calm you down. Breathing will release all the tension and will prepare you for the upcoming adventure.

Avoid Crowds

It is better to wake early and start early. Head to areas where there is a lesser crowd so you can start smooth and you need not stop frequently because someone keeps coming in your way.

Understand the Ski Conditions

Many skiers don’t like bumpy and icy snow, so it is better to start in the morning when the snow is fresh and soft. Understand the weather conditions that are suitable to ski before you hit off.

In Case You Fall

Avoid panicking when you fall, and keep yourself relaxed. Keep your legs straight to avoid twisting. Get up carefully, maintaining the balance of your body, so you don’t slip while getting up.