Learn to Love Winter

You’re never too old to learn new things! That not only goes for mental education, but physical as well. Have you ever thought about stepping into a pair of ski boots or strapping onto a freshly waxed snowboard and riding that chairlift to the top of the mountain? Did lack of confidence or knowledge hold you back? January is the perfect time to correct that - it’s National Learn a Snowsport Month.

All across the United States, many ski associations will be promoting beginner lessons to entice new snowsport enthusiasts to join them on the hills. And we aren’t talking just the young kids. It does’t matter if you’re 20, 30, 40, or 50+… it’s never too late!

Why January? Well, it’s typically the start of winter sports season and gives people the most time to learn new skills, putting them to the test before the snow melts away. If you need some inspiration before committing, do some research. Watch some films and documentaries on snowsports, learn the athletes’ stories… All professionals were beginners once, so this could be the start of a great adventure for you.

Some general facts that you might find interesting:

If you are wondering which medium to start with, National Today had this to say: “As a general rule, skiing is easier to learn but much more difficult to master. On the other hand, getting the hang of snowboarding is challenging, initially. But once done, reaching an advanced level is quicker. You can factor this in when deciding to learn either of them.”
Inviting a friend to join you makes any type of event easier, because it puts you more at ease if you have a familiar face rather than being surrounded by strangers. That being said, the more relaxed you are, the better your lessons will go, the more fun you’ll have, and the greater your chance of making new friends as well.
Instead of escaping the snow, Learn a Snowsport Month is all about embracing it. Spend the days out on stunning mountain terrain at beautiful resorts, have fun while you’re learning something new, break up the monotony of winter time blues and remember, you can treat yourself to steaming hot chocolate or an ice cold beer once you’re done on the slopes for the day.

In our own area, this month is always a big deal. Holiday Valley and HoliMont both have great options for you to take advantage of.

Starting with HoliMont, North America’s largest private ski resort, they offer a variety of programs for any skill level. From first-time skiers to competitive racing, the snowsports school at HoliMont is one of the best. Have one of their skilled instructors spend the day skiing with you or your kids and see how quickly you progress!

You don’t have to be a member to take advantage of what HoliMont has to offer. They offer private lessons to the public Monday through Friday. There is even a Family Fun Adventure clinic, where you can bring your snowboards, skis, and what have you for a 1.5-hour program with their talented snowsports staff. They encourage multi-discipline families and relish a challenge. Learn how to travel the terrain, have confidence with hitting bumps and moguls, take a casual skiing/riding tour… they have hundreds of ways to start your snowsports journey off right. It’s a fact that winter sports are continuous learning experiences that vary based on weather, conditions, and skill level. HoliMont offers private lessons, seasonal programs, and specialized instruction, providing plenty of opportunities and new ways to learn.

For program details, rates, or if you enjoyed your experience while you were at the resort, learn how to become a HoliMont member; visit holimont.com or call the main office at 716-699-2320.

Holiday Valley takes “Learn a Snowsport” Month pretty seriously - seriously fun, that is! They even have their own special event happening on January 3rd. “Learn to Love Winter” lessons are for anyone ages 4 and up that are brand new to snowsports. This beginner-friendly experience is perfect for anyone looking to kick off their winter adventure.

What’s Included:

1.5-Hour Group Lesson: Tailored instruction for kids or adults to build confidence on the slopes.
Rentals + Beginner Area Lift Ticket: Everything you need to hit the snow is included at a discounted rate of just $25.00.
Options for Skiing or Snowboarding: Choose your adventure and learn the basics from our incredible instructors.
Time: Lessons begin at 10:30am for both kid lessons and adult lessons.
This special promotion is only available during the day. Evening lessons are not included in this offer.
A 24-hour cancellation policy applies to all reservations.

Book your lesson today and embrace the magic of winter. The cost is only $25 per person for either skiing or snowboarding. Tickets can be purchased on the holidayvalley.com event page.

Holiday Valley also offers private lessons, mountain adventures, learn to ski/ride programs and the new YETI Educational Program, which is an 8-week course designed to teach aspiring skiers the fundamentals of ski instruction. This is open to students ages 13-15, with the goal that the participants will be able to join Holiday Valley as a Yeti on their snowsports team the following season.

What if you have a disability? Don’t let it hold you back. Both Holiday Valley and HoliMont are part of programs specifically geared for those situations. HoliMont offers the Phoenix Adaptive Ski Program and Holiday Valley has the Lounsbury Adaptive Program. Each program offers lessons to persons with virtually all disabilities, both physical and cognitive. Each student is instructed individually with full emphasis on his/her ability, rather than the disability. Some of the more frequently encountered disabilities are spinal cord injuries, Downs Syndrome, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, visual impairment, autism, and developmental delay. Consider joining one of the programs at either resort for “Learn a Snowsport” Month.

So there you have it folks. January is “Learn a Snowsport” Month in the U.S. Plan your day out on the snow, schedule a lesson, pick up some rental gear, and start your new adventure. We’re sure you’ll love it!

Learn to Love Winter

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