Skiing is a great winter activity that is both thrilling and physically beneficial, but individuals should keep a few basic tips in mind before hitting the slopes. The most important thing to remember when downhill skiing is the effect of gravity and momentum. When a skier moves, gravity works with momentum to propel the individual down the mountain. Learning to steer and brake are the basic movements to master in order to counter the effects of gravity.
Developing a riding stance that is both comfortable and stable is another important lesson for beginners. Even the most ideal mountain conditions are slippery and potentially littered with ice. Finally, beginning skiers should never forget sunblock. Most people associate sunburns with the beach and forget this necessity, but a sunny day on a mountain results in a painful burn if the skin is unprotected.