No matter what the disability, anybody can enjoy going downhill skiing thanks to quality instruction and equipment, according to Disaboom.com, the largest online community for people with disabilities. If you are going to invest your time and money at a local or not-so-local ski resort, start with a Professional Adaptive Ski Instructor. I have been instructing Snow sports since 1996 at Disabled Sports USA programs www.dsusa.org, and the most valuable advice I can give you is to choose a resort that puts a lot of effort into training their instructors to be professional while also offering a wide variety of adaptive equipment.
In adaptive skiing, there are six different disciplines: developmental, visually impaired, mono-ski, bi-ski, 3-track and 4-track. Following is information about choosing a qualified instructor as well as selecting the right resort. You can also find this information by visiting Disaboom.com, selecting the living section and continue on to sports & recreation. So don't sit inside on those cold winter days; get out and play.

Instructors

Adaptive Snow sports instructors can earn three different levels of certification; before scheduling your lesson, check to see if your instructor is qualified to teach at your level. An Instructor qualified at Level 1 has performed to national standards in at least one of the six disciplines to the beginning level. Adaptive Level 2 instructors have performed to national standard in all six disciplines to the intermediate level. Adaptive Level 3 instructors have performed to national standard in all six disciplines to the expert level.

Choosing a Resort

When choosing a resort, the number one question to ask is how many instructors at the program have adaptive certifications. If they have a high percentage of certified instructors, you can expect that those certified instructors are training the new guys and gals how to be professional as well. You will often have a great experience at this resort, even if your instructor is new that season. However, if the percentage of certified adaptive instructors is very low or non-existent, you may have a substandard experience. It is up to you to do the research and remember you are in control of the lesson. When you pay to have a great experience and you feel it was inadequate, you may want to request a level 2 or 3 instructor during your next visit just to get you going in a positive direction.

No matter what your disability is, if you have ever wanted to try adaptive skiing, or if you want to improve your skiing skills, you can. Disaboom.com has all the information you need to get yourself started on an exhilarating experience in the mountains. If you follow these tips and have a desire to learn, anyone can experience the thrill of Alpine Skiing! See you on the slopes!!