5 Reasons to Take a Ski or Snowboard Lesson This Spring

LAKEWOOD, Colo. (March 9, 2023) – Want to learn to ski or snowboard? Or take your current ski or snowboard skills to the next level? Taking a professional lesson this spring will help people easily learn a new skill or help someone master their skills, according to the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI).

No matter what someone’s experience level, from a never-ever skier to a slayer of the steeps, taking a ski or snowboard lesson will help skiers and snowboarders improve. PSIA-AASI shares five reason to take a lesson:

  1. It’s easier and faster to learn from an instructor. Instructors know how to explain information in an easy way to help someone learn faster. “Whether you’re a beginner trying to get your helmet adjusted, or an advanced snowboarder working on your tricks, professional instructors are just that, pros. We can show you how to learn a sport by breaking it down into simple steps, so it’s easy and fun to learn,” said AASI Snowboard Team Assistant and Development Coach Tony Macri.
  2. An instructor will help you improve so you have the confidence to take on new challenges. No matter your ability level, you can always use an instructor. “When learning to make turns on a beginner run, or developing new ways to ski steep terrain, confidence is key,” said PSIA Alpine Team member Robin Barnes. “An instructor will personalize your lesson so you gain the independence and skills to excel.”
  3. An instructor’s job is to make the experience fun. “Instructors love to ski and ride and share the sport with others. If you’re skiing with your family, we want to help you enjoy the mountains together for a lifetime,” said Barnes. “When you take a lesson, we will manage the logistics of the day, take you to the best runs, and help everyone learn at their own pace so you can build lasting memories.”
  4. Instructors show you new terrain and help you explore the mountain. Looking for a mellow groomer? Or seeking out a hidden powder stash? “Our job is part instructor and part mountain guide. We’ll show you the terrain that is going to help you have the most fun,” said PSIA Telemark Team Coach Gregory Dixon. “We also know where to find the best snow – so take a lesson and we’ll explore the best places to ski or ride.”
  5. Instructors will welcome you into the mountain culture. “Instructors are some of the friendliest people on the mountain,” said Dixon. “Many do this job because they enjoy sharing their knowledge and making connections with people, and they want others to love the sport as much as they do! They will answer your questions about gear, how to dress for comfort, and give you insider tips on the best places to visit on your trip.”

Many instructors take additional education, and even become certified to teach others how to ski or ride. This means they participate in rigorous education trainings and assessments to improve their teaching skills. A PSIA-AASI certification is a sign of expertise and credibility and shows the instructor is a professional dedicated to helping others learn and have fun.

“Taking a lesson from a PSIA-AASI member committed to continuing their education through courses and certification will ensure you’ll have an enjoyable experience on the snow,” said Barnes. “Instructors train to be great skiers and riders, as well as great teachers, so they can help you have fun while you improve your skills.”

Free Videos to Help Skiers and Riders Learn the Basics

If a new skier or rider is looking for some tips to help get them started, PSIA-AASI’s Beginner’s Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding video series will show them what to expect before heading to slopes for the first time.

To watch the videos, visit:

To take your skiing or riding to the next level, and if you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of taking a lesson from a certified instructor, visit PSIA-AASI’s Take a Lesson page.

Editor’s Note
For more information about the Beginner’s Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding video series, or to request an interview with an instructor, please contact Katrina Brinkerhoff at or 720.963.4825.

About PSIA-AASI
The Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI) is a nonprofit education association – and close-knit community – of more than 32,000 snowsports professionals dedicated to creating life-changing experiences for others through snowsports instruction. PSIA-AASI members give people the gift of freedom, health, and the ability to enjoy sports that will reward them for life. Members of PSIA-AASI are busy creating the future of skiing and snowboarding – the association is there to help make that job easier, providing the platform and 0support to ensure their success. Learn more at thesnowpros.org or via PSIA-AASI’s Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube pages.

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