If you long to be on the slopes but can’t get to the lift as often as you’d like, indoor ski training is the convenient alternative to driving to the closest snowy peak. Over 160 indoor ski venues have opened over the past few decades, mainly in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
But no amount of architectural engineering can replicate the wonders of the great outdoors. Indoor ski resorts can be a great way to develop specific skills, but they lack the elevation, curves and natural terrain of a mountain pass. As snow becomes increasingly scarce due to climate change and ski resorts grapple with overpopulation, indoor skiing will likely grow in popularity, especially among beginners. However, practicing indoors will only take your game so far. Consider when to train indoors and what skills you can expect to learn.
What to Expect from Indoor Ski Training
Every venue offers a different experience. Some offer set tracks with manufactured hills and turns. Like most parks, they designate tracks based on ability, with courses for beginners and advanced riders. The ground is blanketed with fake snow that replicates the feel of the real thing. The interior is climate-controlled, but many centers operate at room temperature, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which doesn’t require as much gear.
Indoor skiing is getting more advanced all the time by integrating new technology. Some venues run tracks on treadmills to extend run times. They travel around 15 mph and have mirrors along the side so you can watch yourself in real time.
Any well-equipped indoor ski lodge will let you rent equipment onsite. They also offer classes and personalized training with instructors.
What to Wear for Indoor Skiing
Skiing indoors can reduce your risk of injury. You’ll encounter fewer obstacles than outdoors, the operator can turn off the treadmill if you fall and most of the ground is blanketed with artificial snow to pad your fall.
However, you should still wear a helmet to protect your head. Many facilities won’t let you ride without one. You don’t need to wear a visor, goggles or nearly as many layers to stay warm, but you will need long sleeves, pants, ski socks and boots to participate. Check the venue’s requirements beforehand to arrive prepared.
Use wireless ski helmet communication to talk to your coach hands-free during practice. The headset mounts onto any helmet and connects automatically to keep you focused on the run. The JBL speakers produce natural vocals designed to keep the conversation going. Get instant feedback and tips from the instructor as you master the basics. You can use it to train one-on-one or create a direct line between everyone in your group.
What Will I Learn from Indoor Ski Training?
Indoor skiing introduces you to the bare essentials. You can practice:
- Getting up
- Starting and stopping
- Turning wide
- Parallel turning
- Jumping
- Increasing your speed
If you’re new to skiing or only tried it once on vacation years ago, indoor skiing will help you get your bearings on the skis and feel more comfortable on the slopes. Standing and finding your balance on skis takes practice.
You can only practice freestyle skiing with some downhill simulations, so if you’re looking for massive drops, you may be disappointed. Learn about the different types of skiing and the required skills.
Who Is Indoor Ski Training for?
You don’t have to be a newbie to enjoy skiing indoors. It attracts riders of all experience levels, including seasoned professionals looking to up their game.
However, beginners tend to get the most out of the experience. Indoor training provides a safe, low-risk environment for riders to experiment. It’s also great for infrequent skiers who have an upcoming ski vacation.
You will save valuable time on the mountain by not having to relearn the basics.
If you’re unsure if you enjoy skiing, trying it indoors is often much cheaper and easier than getting to the top of a mountain.
Indoor skiing will also help you feel the burn. With smaller lines and shorter lifts, you can ski for 30 to 60 minutes straight, which is equal to about two to three hours at a resort. It’s perfect for staying in shape during the off-season and building endurance as you work toward mastering higher, steeper slopes.
Even if you’ve completed a hundred runs, you can work on improving your time until you set a new record.
These venues can also be an excellent resource for seasoned skiers looking to compare tips or get feedback from world-class instructors.
Is Indoor Ski Training Worth It?
Deciding whether to train indoors or out depends on your experience level, what you’re trying to learn and how often you can get to the slopes.
Some venues cater to beginners with few incentives for experienced pros — others feature challenging obstacle courses and innovative perks you can’t find on a mountain. Where else can you look at your reflection while you ski?
It will be well worth your time if you want to make the most of your upcoming vacation, lack access to snow or are new to the sport. There’s no substitute for snow-capped peaks, but these facilities are the next best alternative.
