Old Guy Learning To Ski

Just in case she is misinterpreting something folks are saying about the one foot in start. From an ancient water skiing book I have, but still, a great picture.



Note that he is using an ancient "double handle" rope, but it acts just like the deep v handle some of the guys above have been talking about.

I am sure she will get it soon enough and its not worth going out and buying a new to you ski for, but just a subtle difference in ski shape can make a difference in getting up. A relative new comer to the sport friend of mine bought a slightly wider (not one of those big easy things that are 18 inches wide) His you would barely notice it is a slightly wider body. But I have three other skier family/friends that have trouble getting up on one ski have no trouble at all getting up on this one. I am sure it helped my friend learn to get up on one, but I bet he would have no trouble now getting up on a narrower, higher level ski.

Thanks all for the replies. Mrs. Poorhouse read this last night and was touched by all the help.
The picture above is really helpful.. We found a YouTube video where you can see the back leg out start, but this helps visualize. She's going to give it a try next time out.

She is still flummoxed by how easily she got up two times. Whether or not the one foot method works for her having something else to think about and focus on will be a benefit.

In this conversation we've been focusing on her frustration. She is still having fun. She tries 3-5 times on the slalom ski. If she doesn't have success she switches over to two skies for a run.

We're hoping there may be a hidden benefit from her struggles as well. Our 8 year old is seeing her have to really work hard to learn something. He gets frustrated if he can't learn something quickly. We use this as an example of tenacity.

I have been slalom skiing for years and have taught many people to get up in deep water. The key I have found is to put a lot of pressure on the your front toes in the front foot and then sit on your back foot(butt low) as much as possible. Arms straight. This usually gives you enough control over the ski while it planes out.
Good luck and have fun, it is one of favorites things to do.

I’ve asked my youngest daughter who just turned 18 if she wants to learn to slalom ski and she said yes.   Last September my son who does everything athletically with great ease got up on his fourth try and hasn’t missed a start yet.

I wish I were so inclined but at least I’m stubborn enough to keep learning however slowly. Turning 60 was not as much fun as earlier birthdays.

Orlando 76 you've been through 3 lifetimes of difficulties this year with your leg and your son's CF. Stay after it, you'll be better in a few more months. You're still in the first half at least of the life's journey.

Will be 48 this summer. I've noticed a lot more muscle tension this year.
Everything feels tight. Need to do more stretching.