During your first barefoot skiing lesson, you can expect to receive a safety briefing and an introduction to basic skills in a controlled and supervised environment. This will help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience while learning this exciting water sport.
Safety briefing
Before you hit the water, your instructor will provide you with a comprehensive safety briefing to help you understand the risks associated with barefoot skiing and how to mitigate them. Some key points that may be covered in the safety briefing include:
- The importance of wearing a properly fitting life jacket at all times
- How to fall safely to avoid injury
- Signals for communication with the boat driver
- The importance of maintaining a safe distance from other skiers
- How to properly enter and exit the water
- Emergency procedures in case of an accident
Skill introduction
Once you have a good understanding of the safety guidelines, your instructor will introduce you to some basic skills that are essential for barefoot skiing. These skills may include:
- Getting up on the skis: Your instructor will teach you how to position your body and use the boat’s pull to get up on your bare feet.
- Proper stance: You will learn how to maintain a balanced and stable stance while barefoot skiing to avoid falling.
- Turning: Your instructor will show you how to shift your weight and use your body to turn while barefoot skiing.
- Stopping: You will learn different techniques for slowing down and coming to a stop safely.
- Recovery: In case you fall, your instructor will teach you how to recover and get back up on your feet.
Practice and feedback
After the safety briefing and skill introduction, you will have the opportunity to practice your barefoot skiing skills under the guidance of your instructor. You may start by practicing each skill separately before combining them into a full run.
Your instructor will provide feedback and guidance to help you improve your technique and build your confidence on the water. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request additional help if you are struggling with a particular skill.
Gradual progression
It’s important to remember that barefoot skiing is a challenging sport that requires time and practice to master. Your instructor will help you progress at a pace that is comfortable for you, gradually introducing more advanced skills as you become more confident on the water.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t master all the skills on your first lesson. With dedication and practice, you will improve and eventually become a proficient barefoot skier.
Equipment check
Before you start your lesson, your instructor will ensure that you are using the proper equipment for barefoot skiing. This may include:
- A well-fitted life jacket to ensure your safety on the water
- Barefoot skiing skis that are appropriate for your skill level and weight
- A tow rope that is strong and in good condition
- Proper footwear for when you are not on the skis