Where to Ski And Snowboard - New ski coaching zone for Verbier

New ski coaching zone for Verbier

29th November 2016, by Abi Butcher

Pick up ski tips and advice from an instructor in Verbier without joining a lesson

Fancy some tips with an instructor but don’t want to sign up for ski school or go to the expense of a private lesson?

Another new initiative this season in Verbier will allow skiers to pick up tips and advice on the mountain from a ski instructor without the formality and rigid structure of lessons.

The “Coaching Zone” has been devised by European Snowsport, which will position instructors in various pre-arranged places on the mountain. Skiers buy a membership pass — one day costs CHF50 (around £40) — and can stop off at the meeting point, do one run with the instructor watching with feedback each time. Skiers visit once or can ski off to practice and then return several times a day.

Julian Griffiths, founder of European Snowsport, explains why the concept was developed: “On a busy day in Verbier there can be 20,000 people skiing and we estimate that as many as 19,000 aren’t skiing with an instructor and therefore aren’t improving. We know that time on the slopes is precious and not everyone can commit the time or money for a daily lesson, therefore we have developed the Coaching Zone which is flexible and affordable whilst still giving skiers access to valuable expert advice to improve their technique.”

For those who are in Verbier for longer, a seven-day membership costs CHF200 (about £160).

The Coaching Zone can be found on Lac des Vaux blue on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, Lac des Vaux black on Wednesday and Friday and La Chaux park on Saturday. The different locations offer different terrains to help skiers improve in a variety of conditions. The Coaching Zone’s tuition is best suited to intermediate to advanced skiers and solo adult skiers, adult groups and family groups are welcome.

For more information visit europeansnowsport.com