Introduction
Falls happen. What matters is getting up safely. Use this simple sequence: turn skis downhill, set them parallel under your hips, push up using a pole tripod, then check uphill.
4 steps to get up safely
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Turn skis downhill
Rotate so your skis sit below you and point downhill; if needed, briefly remove one ski and clip back in once aligned.
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Set skis parallel under your hips
Bring feet under your hips, skis close and parallel; knees flexed, torso slightly forward.
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Use poles as a tripod
Plant both poles downhill in front of your knees; shift weight to the poles and push up.
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Stand, check uphill and move
Stabilise, glance uphill for traffic, signal if needed and resume calmly.
Typical mistakes
- Trying to stand with skis across the slope or uphill.
- Keeping poles behind the body instead of in front for support.
- Starting too quickly without checking uphill.
Beginner questions
Should I release a binding if I’m stuck?
You can temporarily unclip one ski. Reclip once you align the skis and clear snow from the binding.
What if the skis are buried in soft snow?
Clear snow around the bindings and heels, wiggle the edges to free them, then attempt the sequence again.
How do I avoid another fall when moving off?
Hold a stable basic stance for a second, then start with a gentle wedge before linking turns.
Instructor’s tip
“Think hips over feet — not shoulders over hands. Forward balance plus a pole tripod makes standing up effortless.”
Conclusion
Practice these four steps on gentle terrain and falls will just be brief pauses, not confidence breakers.