Can you really learn to ski with online ski lessons?

No

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by Aaron Machuga

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I remember my very first skiing experience at the age of 5. My dad took a rare day off work to drive us out to the local ski hill. Truly it is a hill because there's something like 270 feet of vertical drop to the entire 'resort'. In fact, it doubles as a golf course in the warmer months. Over the next 10 years, more frequent trips to legitimate ski resorts allowed me to hone my skills into something that actually allowed me to enjoy what I was doing.

Given my family's affinity for skiing, industry magazines were frequently in our mailbox. We've all seen them. They're loaded with gear reviews, travel destinations, umpteen pages of ads for cheap weekly rates in British Columbia, and then training columns. The training columns explain techniques in plain language and are even accompanied by time lapse photos demonstrating the concept. If we look at that in the sense that the reader is learning of a new technique, then yes, you can probably 'learn' from online lessons. However, think back to your 8th grade math class. The teacher demonstrated the theory and then it was up to you to validate the learning by showing that you could do it too.

While books, magazines, an even online instruction can certainly introduce new concepts and modes of thinking, they are not a replacement for actual experience. Having been personally involved in this sport for most of my life, I have seen countless new skiers who declined instruction because they knew what they were doing'. I've even introduced a few who had this mentality, and nearly without fail they had negative experiences as a direct result of their arrogance.

Beyond the obvious risk to themselves, people who do not at least seek the assistance of more experienced skiers are a danger to others. One of the basic tenets of responsible skiing is that it's the uphill skier who must be in sufficient control to avoid those who are downhill. But the gentlest slopes can still drag an uncontrolled skier downhill with enough speed to cause serious injury to them and anyone who cannot get out of their way.

Skiing, as much as it is a sport, is an art form. When you actually strap skis to your feet, you have to reconcile things like, weight, balance, speed, and terrain. THEN you have to incorporate the forms of the new technique, and develop a feel for the motion. Linear concepts like replacing the alternator on your car are effectively taught in such ways. But complex endeavors like flying, martial arts, and yes, even skiing, which require the participant to master the skills of asset management are better learned with the aid of an instructor and in their natural environment.

All things considered, I love the sport and wish everyone could experience it with the same joy that I do. And while the internet is ultimately a place for unbridled learning and exchange of information, there are some things that should still be taught in person. There is very little in this world that presents absolutely zero risk, but in consideration of the risk to others, it becomes apparent that the internet is not an effective surrogate for every skill you may wish to develop.

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