Tag: ski lessons

Waves, Friendships, and Island Vibes: My Surf Adventure in the Maldives 🌊🏝️

If you ask me to describe paradise, I might just start by telling you about my recent trip to the Maldives. I’ve just come back from an unforgettable vacation filled with incredible waves, pure island vibes, amazing people, and a few thrilling moments that reminded me why I love the ocean so much.

Now I’ll tell you my surf adventure in the Maldives!

Surfing in Dream Conditions 🏄‍♂️

This trip was all about surfing – and wow, did the Maldives deliver. Every single day, I found myself paddling out into crystal-clear turquoise waters and riding some of the most perfect waves I’ve ever seen. Some days the swell came in just right, offering those clean, glassy faces that every surfer dreams of. Other days, the waves were bigger than expected – a bit intimidating at first, but incredibly fun once you committed to the drop.

There were moments when the size of the waves made me hesitate. But pushing through that fear was the most rewarding part. Every ride brought adrenaline, joy, and that feeling of complete freedom you can only get on a wave. I left the water every day with sore arms and a huge smile on my face.

Fishing in Paradise 🌿🎣

When I wasn’t surfing, I found peace in another passion of mine: fishing. The Maldives, with its vibrant marine life and calm lagoons, turned out to be the perfect spot. I spent some early mornings and golden sunsets on the water, casting lines, sharing stories, and just enjoying the slow rhythm of island life. There’s something therapeutic about being on a boat in the middle of the Indian Ocean, far from everything, fully present in the moment.

New Faces, Real Connections 😊🤝

One of the biggest surprises of this trip was the people I met. From fellow surfers to locals, I had the chance to connect with amazing individuals from all over the world. Some came from as close as Liguria, others from as far away as New Zealand. Despite our different backgrounds, we were all drawn together by a shared love for the ocean and adventure.

We spent our evenings swapping stories over fresh fish dinners, laughing under star-filled skies, and planning our dawn surf sessions. There was no need for filters or small talk – just genuine people sharing unforgettable moments. It reminded me that sometimes, the best part of traveling isn’t the destination itself, but the people you meet along the way.

A Reminder of Why I Travel ✈️☀️

This trip to the Maldives was everything I needed and more. After months of training, routine, and cold temperatures, escaping to a tropical island brought me balance and perspective. It recharged my body and my spirit.

It also reminded me of why I travel: to grow, to discover, to challenge myself. Whether it’s surfing a wave that scares me, opening up to strangers who become friends, or just listening to the sound of the ocean at night, these moments are what fuel me.

What’s Next?

Now that I’m back, I’m already dreaming of the next adventure. But for now, I’m holding onto the salty memories, the sound of the waves crashing on the reef, and the laughter shared with people who, even if just for a moment, felt like family.

Thanks for following my journey. If you want to see more of my travel moments, surf clips, and daily adventures, follow me on Instagram @riccardovaraldo and on Strava – same name. See you out there! 🌍🌪️

2025-06-17
Discipline, Results, and a Mysterious Destination: A Week of Personal Growth 🧘‍♂️✈️

This past week has been all about dedication, consistency, and a touch of mystery. With the ski season behind me and summer creeping in, I’ve shifted my focus to strengthening my body, staying disciplined with my routine, and… preparing for a trip I’m incredibly excited about. But more on that later 😉

The Plank Challenge 💪

I’ve decided to challenge myself with a simple but demanding daily exercise: the plank. I started with something manageable and every single day I’ve been adding 5 more seconds to my hold time. Today, I reached 1 minute and 40 seconds — and it felt great! 🥵

The plank is such a deceptively tough exercise. At first, it seems easy — you’re just staying still, right? But after a while, you feel every muscle in your body screaming, and it becomes as much a mental challenge as a physical one. I’m already noticing better core stability, and I’m sure this will pay off both in the gym and next winter on the slopes. My goal is to keep this streak going and see how far I can push it. The journey is just beginning.

Diet on Track 🥗

Another big win from the past couple of weeks is my nutrition. I’ve been eating clean, keeping things balanced, and being mindful of portions. And the results speak for themselves: I’ve lost 2 kilograms in just two weeks.

What’s been working for me is not following a strict diet, but instead finding balance. Plenty of fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and cutting out most processed foods. I’m also keeping my meals simple and nutritious. This way, I don’t feel like I’m missing out, but I’m still seeing progress. Losing a bit of weight makes everything feel lighter — physically and mentally.

Big News: I’m Going Somewhere Hot! ☀️

Here’s the exciting part: this Friday night I’ll be boarding a flight to a very warm destination. I won’t reveal the exact place yet — that’s for my Instagram followers to discover (follow me @riccardovaraldo if you’re curious 👀). But I’ll give you a little hint: it’s in Asia, it’s going to be very hot, and I can’t wait to explore.

The trip will last until the 16th, so I might not be able to post next week’s blog article. But I promise to make up for it with a full travel story once I’m back — with pictures, highlights, impressions, and maybe even a few surprises.

This will be my first real break after months of intense skiing, training, and working. It feels good to take time for myself, especially now that I’ve gotten into a healthier rhythm with my body. I’m curious to see how I’ll manage my routine while traveling, but I plan to stay active, eat well (as much as the local cuisine allows 😅), and soak up every second of the experience.

Staying Active, Staying Focused

Even though I’m heading off for an adventure, I’m not letting go of my goals. The plank challenge continues — I’ll find a few minutes every day, no matter where I am, to stick to my plan. And when I get back, I’ll jump straight into the next phase of training, with new energy and hopefully a nice tan 🌞

This journey — both physical and personal — is about discipline, passion, and finding balance. Whether I’m on the slopes, on a bike, in the gym, or discovering a new corner of the world, I want to live it all fully and consciously.

Stay tuned for the next article — it’ll be a hot one, in every sense of the word 🔥

2025-06-03
From Cycling to Tuna Fishing: A Little Pause with Big Catch

It’s not the post I was hoping to write this week, but hey — that’s life! 🚲💥 For the past two weeks, I’ve been dealing with a nasty plantar wart right under the arch of my foot. Yeah, one of those painful ones that makes even walking uncomfortable, let alone pushing hard on bike pedals. I really thought it would heal faster, but unfortunately, it’s still sore and annoying, and it’s keeping me off the saddle for now.

For someone like me who loves road cycling, especially those quick 50–60 km loops that give me my two-hour dose of adrenaline and fresh air, being sidelined is frustrating. Cycling, for me, is more than just a workout — it’s a way to stay connected to nature, to train my legs during the off-season, and honestly, to clear my head. It also complements skiing beautifully: those long efforts uphill are amazing for endurance, and the control you learn while cornering downhill really translates to better edge control when skiing. So yes, not cycling sucks. 😅

But luckily… Mother Nature gave me a break. No waves on the forecast 🌊✖️ — so at least I’m not suffering from the surf withdrawal too! If the sea had been pumping, it would’ve been torture not to be able to ride those waves. In a way, I think the sea is cutting me some slack. 😄

Still, I can’t just sit around. So, I’ve kept up my gym routine 🏋️‍♂️ and found a new-old passion: fishing. Being out at sea, breathing in that salty air, waiting for a strike — it’s incredibly calming and grounding. It’s also given me a chance to reconnect with the sea in a different way. I grew up around boats and lines and reels, so it feels natural to be out there again.

🎣 And last week? I had a solid win: I landed a beautiful albakora (aka little tuna) weighing in at over 3 kg! 💪🐟
Not the biggest catch of my life, sure, but definitely one of the most satisfying. I was out early in the morning, no wind, flat calm waters. You know that stillness when the ocean feels like glass? That. I dropped the lure and boom — after a short but intense fight, I pulled in this shiny, strong little beast. Here’s the photo 📸 — and no, it’s not Photoshop!

Moments like that remind me that even when life doesn’t go as planned (no bike, no surf), there’s always something to appreciate — or to hunt 😉. I’ve always believed in making the most out of what you’ve got, and this minor injury is just another opportunity to explore something different.

I know I’ll be back on the bike soon enough. Hopefully the wart calms down soon — I’m doing all I can to speed up healing. Until then, I’m staying active in every way I can. If you’re curious or want to keep track of when I’m back on two wheels, feel free to follow me on Strava — my nickname is @riccardovaraldo. 🚴‍♂️🔥

In the meantime, thanks for following along my not-so-linear sports journey. I’ll keep you posted — whether it’s from the saddle, the gym, or the fishing boat.

Stay moving, stay positive —
Riky

2025-05-27
From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

When ski season winds down and the snow begins to melt, many people pack away their gear and wait patiently for winter to return. Not me. As soon as the skis are back in the garage, another passion takes over — road cycling. 🚲

There’s something magical about riding a road bike. It’s simple, silent, and deeply personal. Just me, the bike, the road, and the rhythm of my legs turning the cranks. It’s a different kind of mountain adventure, but one that gives me the same sense of freedom and connection to nature 🌄. While winter gives me the mountains in white, summer gifts me the roads in green 🌿.

I’ve always loved cycling, but over the years it’s become much more than a hobby — it’s my favorite off-season training 💪. Why? Because it keeps me fit, clears my mind, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly complementary to skiing 🎿.

The muscles we use on the bike — especially the quads, hamstrings, and glutes — are exactly the ones that skiers need strong and responsive. Every climb on the bike is a strength session for the legs 🔥; every descent a mental focus exercise. 🧠

More than that, there’s a very specific connection between cycling and skiing technique: when you take a corner on a bike, you learn to lean in, manage balance, and control the outside leg — exactly what we do when carving down a ski slope ⛷️. When I’m descending a curvy road at speed, I can’t help but think how similar it feels to a clean GS turn on hard-packed snow.

Nowadays, I typically go for shorter, more focused rides — around 50 to 60 kilometers — which means about two hours or a bit more of riding ⏱️. It’s the sweet spot for me: long enough to get a proper workout, short enough to fit into a busy day.

I used to do much longer rides in the past — 100 km or more wasn’t unusual — and while I still love the idea of long, slow days in the saddle, lately I prefer a faster rhythm ⚡. Maybe one day I’ll find the spark again to go for those epic full-day adventures. For now, though, I enjoy the intensity and efficiency of my current sessions.

Cycling is also fantastic for the mind. It’s meditative, especially when I’m out early in the morning or riding through quiet forest roads 🌲. It’s time for myself — to think, breathe, or just switch off. As a ski instructor, I spend most of my winter talking, teaching, guiding. On the bike, I find my own pace, my own silence.

One of the best parts? The landscape. Whether it’s riding up to a mountain pass or along the valley floor surrounded by wildflowers 🌸, cycling lets me experience the Alps in a completely different way. No lifts, no crowds — just leg power and the sound of tires on tarmac. The same mountains I ski in winter, I ride in summer. And that, to me, is incredibly special 💫.

If you’re a skier and haven’t tried road cycling yet, I can’t recommend it enough. Not only will it keep your legs strong for the next season, but it will also sharpen your awareness, balance, and endurance. It’s the perfect cross-training — and it makes you appreciate winter even more when it comes back around 🔄❄️.

Curious about my rides? I share them regularly on Strava, where you can find me as @riccardovaraldo 📲. Maybe you’ll get inspired to hop on your bike and see where the road takes you!

Because in the end, whether it’s skis or pedals, it’s all about the ride — and the joy of movement 🚵‍♂️🎿

See you on two wheels… or two skis.

– Riky

2025-05-20

🌼 Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

It’s May — flowers are blooming, bikes are back on the road, and beach towels are making their first appearances… but up here in Cervinia, winter isn’t quite ready to say goodbye. If you’re like me and not quite done with ski season yet, you’re in luck: spring skiing in Cervinia kicks off again from May 5th, 2025, with a reduced but still very skiable area open for all the snow lovers out there.

So, what can you expect if you’re planning a late-season trip?

🎿 What Slopes and Lifts Will Be Open?

Even though it’s technically the start of the off-season, there’s still plenty of snow up high, and that means a good number of runs are staying open:

Pista 6 and 46 will be groomed and open, with return skiing available all the way down to Plan Maison, the spring skiing hub.
The Bontadini chairlift will operate daily from 9:00 to 14:45.
The Breuil-Cervinia – Plateau Rosà cable cars are also running, giving access to the spectacular slope 7, which reaches up to Cime Bianche Laghi. This area will be skiable until 15:00.

📅 On selected dates — May 9–11 and May 16–18 — the Baby La Vieille skilift will be open too, along with slope 8 bis, from 8:30 to 16:30. A great bonus for those looking for a few extra runs on the weekend!

❄️ What About the Swiss Side?

Conditions permitting, the Swiss glacier section (Trockener Steg and the Furggsattel chairlift) will also be open. This area usually maintains excellent snow quality in May and offers that unique experience of summer skiing with stunning Alpine views.

💶 Summer Skipass Prices – May 2025

Spring skiing also means better value. From May 5th until the Italian side closes, Cervinia runs on a special summer season skipass price list.

✅ Skipass Prices – Consecutive Days

Days	Adult	Senior / Young	Junior
1 Day	€63.00	€55.50	€31.50
2 Days	€121.00	€106.50	€60.50
3 Days	€174.00	€153.00	€87.00
4 Days	€222.00	€195.00	€111.00
5 Days	€264.50	€233.00	€132.50
6 Days	€302.50	€266.00	€151.00

🔁 Skipass Prices – Non-Consecutive Days

Days	Adult	Senior / Young	Junior
2 Days	€123.50	€108.50	€61.50
3 Days	€181.50	€159.50	€90.50
4 Days	€237.00	€208.50	€118.50
5 Days	€290.00	€255.00	€145.00
6 Days	€340.00	€299.50	€170.00

🧒 Baby (born after 31/10/2016): ski free with a paying adult
🎉 Over 80s (born before 01/11/1944): ski completely free!
🆔 All discounted categories must show valid ID at the ticket office.

🌞 My Take on Spring Skiing

Spring skiing in Cervinia has a vibe of its own. The snow might be a bit softer, but the sun is stronger, the lines are shorter, and there’s something magical about carving down slopes in just a light jacket — or even in a t-shirt some days!

Personally, I always love this time of year. It’s more relaxed, more social, and it feels like a reward for those of us who just can’t get enough of the mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just want to extend your season one more time, Cervinia in May delivers.

📲 Stay in Touch!

If you’re curious to see more behind-the-scenes from Cervinia or just follow along my spring adventures — from ski slopes to road bike rides — make sure to follow me on Instagram:
👉 @riccardovaraldo

And don’t miss out on the weekly vlog on my YouTube channel — in Italian, but with subtitles available!

That’s all for now — get your skis ready, throw on some sunscreen, and I’ll see you on the slopes (or online)!
Next week, new updates as always — between Tuesday and Wednesday!

Cheers,
Riky 🎿

2025-05-13

Surfing the Rain and Waiting for Summer

he weather lately has been far from summer vibes—cloudy skies and scattered rain showers seem to be the theme of these days. But hey, not all is lost!
As you can see from the photo, I’m using this time to surf every chance I get. Wet suit on, board under my feet, and salt water in my hair… there’s still a lot of fun to be had—even under grey skies.

I’m still staying consistent with my diet, but to be honest, the scale isn’t rewarding me yet 😅
But I’m not giving up—consistency always wins in the long run.

Meanwhile, in Cervinia, from Plan Maison and above, it’s snowing again! Yes, in May! Looks like summer is in no rush to show up in the Alps, which makes me smile—because deep down, I never really get tired of snow.

Back home in Liguria, I’m enjoying the gym sessions and the first bike rides of the season.
I’ll admit it—getting back on the bike after a long winter takes effort. The legs are complaining, but it’s a good kind of struggle.
One ride at a time, the shape will come back.

That’s it for now—thanks as always for following along. I’ll be back next week with a new blog post, as usual between Tuesday and Wednesday.

Catch you soon,
—Riky

2025-05-06
A Fresh Look for Summer: New Haircut, Big Plans

Just a week has passed since I returned home to Liguria, and things are already in full swing! First of all—you probably noticed the new haircut 😉
I felt like it was time for a change: something lighter, fresher, and definitely more practical for the hot summer days ahead. It feels great!

Life back home is treating me well. After a long and intense winter season, it’s refreshing to slow down just a bit and enjoy everything this region has to offer. Even though it’s only been a few days, I’ve already packed in a lot—and to make sure you don’t miss anything, make sure you follow me on Instagram: @riccardovaraldo. That’s where I post behind-the-scenes moments from my everyday life.

And there’s more: I’ve officially launched my weekly vlog on YouTube! 🎥
It’s currently only in Italian, so if you don’t speak the language, just turn on the subtitles. Every week I share a glimpse into my off-season life—from workouts to local adventures and everything in between.

Speaking of off-season… not everything is sunshine and spritz. This winter I gained a few extra kilos (thanks, raclette and polenta!). So starting this Monday, I’m officially back on a clean diet. And to support the effort, I’ve also resumed gym training three times a week and got back on my road bike!
I’ve only done one ride so far, but my weekly goal is at least two rides, ideally three. It feels so good to be moving again and chasing new goals—even in the off-season.

That’s it for now, friends. Stay tuned for next week’s blog post—coming, as usual, between Tuesday and Wednesday. Thanks for following my journey, both on and off the slopes!

Catch you soon,
Riky

2025-04-30
The Winter Season Ends, but the Blog Stays Alive

It’s official—my winter ski season has come to an end, and I’ve finally made my way back home to Liguria, where the sea replaces the snow, and the surfboard takes the place of my skis. After months of early mornings, perfect turns, powder days, and unforgettable moments on the slopes, it’s time for a little break 🌊

I want to thank each and every one of you—clients, friends, fellow instructors, and everyone I met on this journey—for making this winter truly special. Your energy, passion, and smiles made this season one of the best yet. I couldn’t have asked for more ❤️

But just because the lifts have stopped turning doesn’t mean the blog takes a break! I’ll keep sharing new blog posts every Tuesday or Wednesday, just like during the season. Expect stories about skiing, mountain life, gear tips, off-season insights, and maybe a little bit of surf and sunshine from the coast.

For now, it’s time to rest and recharge, and enjoy some waves before jumping back into planning for next winter—which, believe it or not, isn’t far off. Time flies, and I can’t wait to hit the slopes with all of you again soon.

Stay tuned, and thanks again for an amazing season.
See you in the waves… or on the snow soon!

—Riky 🏄‍♂️⛷️

2025-04-23
Spring Skiing, Wildlife Surprises, and a Snowstorm Incoming

Spring Skiing and Wildlife Encounters Ahead of a Historic Snowfall

Spring skiing has its own unique charm—not just for the longer days and softer snow, but also for the incredible wildlife encounters that become more frequent as the season changes. Just the other day, while skiing high up in the Alps, I had the amazing chance to spot an ibex (stambecco) standing proudly on a ridge, watching the skiers below. Marmots have also begun to emerge, filling the alpine silence with their cheerful whistles. For nature lovers, this is the season to keep your eyes open while gliding down the slopes!

Snow Is on the Way: A Powerful Weather Shift Incoming

While the sun is shining now, the forecast is about to take a dramatic turn. In less than 24 hours, our region is expected to experience what could become one of the most intense snowstorms of the last two decades. Weather maps show potentially historic snowfall totals, with predictions of 300–400 mm of precipitation in the lower valleys and up to 2 meters of snow accumulating in areas such as Gran Paradiso, Cervino, and Monte Rosa.

A deep trough is expected to dive into the Mediterranean, setting up a dynamic that has historically led to the heaviest precipitation for northwestern Italy. As warm scirocco winds from the southeast collide with the Alpine barrier, a powerful orographic lift will trap the moisture, causing substantial snowfall on the windward slopes.

When and Where: The Forecast in Detail

The worsening weather pattern is expected to begin Tuesday evening with the arrival of the pre-frontal zone, triggering showers and thunderstorms that will gradually move into the Valle d’Aosta and VCO. Between Wednesday and Thursday, forecasts become more concerning, with widespread and intense precipitation expected.

The most intense phase will likely occur between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning. Thunderstorms, heavy snowfall, and even convective events such as lightning and thunder are possible along alpine valleys. Areas such as the Gran Paradiso National Park, southern and eastern Valle d’Aosta, Biellese, and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola will likely experience the highest accumulations, with totals reaching up to 300–400 mm by Friday morning.

Thanks to the persistent southeast airflow, even the inner alpine valleys—Valtournenche, Valle di Ayas, Valle del Lys, Cogne, and Champorcher—will likely receive significant snow, with totals ranging from 100 to 200 mm, potentially more near the Piemonte border.

A Unique Time to Ski and Explore

If you’re planning to hit the slopes in the coming days, be prepared for a bit of everything. Right now, conditions above 2500 meters remain solid and wintry, offering some of the best skiing of the season. The added thrill of wildlife sightings, like marmots and ibexes, only enhances the spring skiing experience.

But be mindful—if this storm unfolds as predicted, it could cause temporary closures or delays in lift operations due to avalanche risk and heavy snow management. Stay informed, follow local advisories, and be flexible with your plans.

In Conclusion

Spring skiing is full of surprises—whether it’s a marmot peeking out of the snow or a massive snowstorm rolling in from the south. This week, the Alps are set to receive a dramatic reminder of winter’s power, even as the season edges closer to its end. If you love deep snow, wild weather, and magical mountain moments, this could be your chance to experience something truly unforgettable.

Stay safe and see you on the slopes!

Riky

2025-04-15
Chasing Perfect Spring Snow in Zermatt

Spring is in the air, but that doesn’t mean the skiing has to stop. Quite the opposite—today in Zermatt proved once again that if you know where to go, you can still find incredible snow even in April.

We started the day on the high-altitude slopes of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, making the most of the altitude to stay above the softening snow. With the temperatures climbing, the best conditions were definitely up high, and that’s exactly where we headed first.

The Furgsattel and Hirli chairlifts were our playground for the morning. Up here, the snow was still surprisingly firm and grippy—perfect for high-speed carving. The views were, as always, jaw-dropping, with the towering Matterhorn watching over every turn.

Around midday, we decided to explore a bit lower and descended all the way to Furi. As expected, the snow down here had a more spring-like texture, but it still held up well, especially on the shadier slopes. For April, it was more than anyone could ask for.

Lunch was a highlight of the day. We stopped at Stafelalp, a cozy mountain restaurant with an unbeatable view of the Matterhorn. A delicious meal under the sun, surrounded by snow-covered peaks—what more could you want?

After refueling, we took another lap up Hirli, enjoying one last round of great snow and amazing scenery. Then it was time to cruise down to Aroleid, a picturesque spot nestled in the forest just above Furi. From there, we made our way back across the border, returning to Italy with tired legs and huge smiles.

Spring skiing days like this are truly special—less crowded slopes, warm sunshine, and if you time it right, excellent snow conditions. Zermatt delivered on all fronts, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Days like this remind me why I love what I do.

See you on the slopes!

2025-04-08
Spring Skiing: Warm Temperatures but Perfect Snow Conditions

The past few days have brought unseasonably warm temperatures to the Alps, but for those wondering if the ski season is still in full swing—fear not! Despite the warmth, the snow conditions remain fantastic, especially at higher altitudes.

The Magic of High-Altitude Skiing

One of the great advantages of skiing in areas like Cervinia and Zermatt is the altitude. With slopes reaching well above 2500m, the snow retains its winter quality, ensuring a great skiing experience even when lower areas begin to soften. While the lower runs might start to feel spring-like by midday, the upper slopes are still offering crisp, packed snow perfect for carving turns.

Early Mornings and High-Altitude Adventures

With warmer days, the key to making the most of your ski sessions is timing. Mornings are ideal, with perfectly groomed pistes and firmer snow. As the sun rises higher, some lower areas can soften, but above 2500m, you can still enjoy that classic winter snow feel throughout the day.

Why Spring Skiing is Underrated

While some people start thinking about summer as temperatures rise, spring skiing offers some of the best conditions of the season. The combination of great snow at higher elevations, longer daylight hours, and fewer crowds makes this period one of the best times to hit the slopes. Plus, there’s nothing quite like enjoying an après-ski drink under the sun after an epic day on the mountain!

Don’t Pack Away Your Skis Just Yet!

If you’re hesitating about booking that late-season ski trip, don’t! The snow remains in top shape above 2500m, and with the right approach—early starts, high-altitude runs, and a good après-ski session—spring skiing might just be your new favorite part of the season.

See you on the slopes!

2025-03-31
From Beginners to Black Slopes: A Year of Progress with Two Young Skiers
One of the most rewarding experiences as a ski instructor is witnessing the progress of students over time. This season, I had the pleasure of skiing again with two young English skiers who first started learning with me last year. They arrived as complete beginners back then, and this year, they returned ready to take on an even greater challenge: black slopes! Seeing their confidence and technique improve so much in just one year was incredible.

Last Year’s Journey: From Zero to Blue Slopes

When these two kids first stepped onto the snow last season, they had never skied before. Like all beginners, we started with the basics: balancing, stopping, and making simple turns. The first few days were all about getting comfortable on skis and understanding how to move with control. There were plenty of falls, laughs, and moments of doubt, but they never gave up.

By the end of their first week, they had already mastered the blue slopes, a huge achievement for anyone starting from scratch. Their progress was a testament to their determination and enthusiasm for the sport. I could see they had caught the skiing bug, and I had a feeling they would be back.

This Year’s Challenge: Black Slopes

True to my expectations, they returned this season, eager to push their limits even further. From the very first day, it was clear that their muscle memory had kicked in. They picked up where they left off, carving smoothly down red slopes with confidence and control.

After a few days of refining technique and building confidence, it was time for the big challenge: skiing black slopes. These runs are steeper, icier, and demand precise control and strong technique. Understandably, they were nervous at first, but their excitement quickly took over.

With a bit of coaching, they made their way down, carefully at first, but gaining confidence with each turn. By the bottom of the run, their faces lit up with pure joy and accomplishment. They had done it!

The Key to Their Progress

What made their improvement so remarkable? Several key factors played a role:
1. Consistent Practice – Returning for another season meant they could build on what they had already learned rather than starting from scratch.
2. A Positive Attitude – They were always eager to learn and never discouraged by challenges.
3. Gradual Progression – We made sure to move from easy slopes to harder ones step by step, reinforcing their skills along the way.
4. Trust in the Process – They followed instructions carefully and trusted their ability to improve with time.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

After conquering black slopes, these two young skiers are already excited for next season. Their parents have told me how much they love skiing and that they’re eager to return for even bigger challenges. Maybe next year, we’ll tackle some off-piste adventures!

Watching students grow in skill and confidence is the best part of being a ski instructor. I have no doubt that these two will continue to improve, and I can’t wait to see them back on the slopes next winter.

See you next season! ⛷️❄️
2025-03-26