Author Topic: Lessons at Durango Questions  (Read 900 times)

Gary

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Lessons at Durango Questions
« on: November 27, 2012, 09:24:20 am »
Hi Gang,
I used my magical mod powers to break Byron's questions about some instruction he plans to take during a trip to Durango where Purgatory is the local ski area. I think it's worth of it's own thread and not buried in a thread about a training device.

LP


Gary wrote:

I mean I like the explanation of the sweet spot but that "teeter-tauter" balance block I too believe can not translate to improvement on a pair of skis.

Hey it's Christmas and ski season, there's all sorts of people looking for the quick cheap way to get better.

Newsflash....take a lesson with a very qualified instructor....oh yeah....that's what they should be selling...ha!

G
« Last Edit: December 23, 2012, 07:07:43 am by LivingProof »

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byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #1 on: December 22, 2012, 01:45:10 am »
Tactful Inquisition?
Can I segway on Gary's remark and ask for a bit of help? I aim to take a trip to SW Colo. in the short term and would like to get some lessons. After returning last year to skiing and getting my legs under me a bit. I really need to transition more from my old school to new school and need some technical help to do so. Understanding there are differences in teaching disciplines, at this stage, I am more concerned about quality in whatever style is available at those areas.
 
Obviously, I want to avoid awkwardness, the "hey, do you know what your doing" prior to dedicating what I anticipate will be a fair amount of funding. I say, "fair amount" knowing ahead of time, repetition, see it, feel it, do it...over and over until you "get it thru that thick skull" is generally the most effective learning technique for me.
 
Similarly, I don't want to be too meek and not address the issue prior, schedule with the ski school and end up with someone who perhaps has a ways to go in terms of developing their instructor skills.
 
So I guess my question is; Is there a central resource or guideline to which I could refer? I know there are different types and levels of instructor certification. What would be the best way to ensure the best learning experience and bang for the buck without offending a potential ski school organizer or geting off on the wrong foot with an instructor to glean some info prior? What to ask, what not to ask, etc.
 
Noted, at my level, I don't need or expect Franz Klammer's coach. Just trying to maximize the experience.
 
Thoughts appreciated.
« Last Edit: December 22, 2012, 02:44:13 am by byronm »

jim-ratliff

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #2 on: December 22, 2012, 02:46:46 am »
There's nothing that says you can't request an individual by name. The worst that can happen is that he/she won't be available when you want.
One option. Name what resort in SW Colorado and see if anyone has an individual recommendation.
Second option. Maybe someone knows someone at the ski school and could ask locals for a recommendation.

"If you're gonna play the game boy, ya gotta learn to play it right."

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #3 on: December 22, 2012, 03:25:53 am »
I am headed to Durango Mtn first week of January. It will be my first time there. The information on their web site doesnt really give alot of info...perhaps some of the forum members know someone. I would like to do a couple of individual lessons to start to ensure I get off to a good start. I have enough bad habits and don't want to engrain anymore... ;D
Perhaps will do a clinic or ultimately a camp later on but thought I would keep it hourly for now for the individual attention. Also, I am still recuperating from a leg surgery and quite frankly, not sure how it will hold up on extended days.
Thx for the suggestion Jim

LivingProof

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #4 on: December 22, 2012, 07:10:43 am »
B,
I looked at Purgatory's website and you have two choices. The private is available in 2 hr , 3hr or all day rates. I think that in 2 hours, you will get a fair amount of info and the cost was about $200. If I did a private, I would ask for an instructor who has at least Level 2 status.

There is a am or pm group class for $60, which can be pretty good also. In my erly ski days, I'd always do at least one of these. In January, you very well may find these classes can turn into a 1 or 2 student session as I doubt there will be crowds.

It's a small ski area, so I doubt anyone here would have a specific recommendation.


byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #5 on: December 22, 2012, 07:44:23 am »
Thanks LP...for the info on cert and great tip on the class size which I hadn't considered.
I havent ever had lessons so the small class environment could be a great start and ultimately just as effective for my first time. Certainly alot easier on the wallet. My daughter skied there last year and said the mountain was great and the locals were exceptionally gracious and friendly.
Should I try to articulate some specific goals at onset or will the instructor likely be able to take a look and sort the order of merrit out for me?  I know I need help with tipping, smoothing out and linking turns. Probably stance, posture and just about all the fundementals.
I guess he/she has a pretty diverse fix it menu with me...... :-X
 

jim-ratliff

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #6 on: December 22, 2012, 09:12:45 am »
Byron:
I think you should give some thought to what you would most like to accomplish and/or change in your skiing, at the higher level, not so much at the movements level.
I assume the instructor will want to merge that with what she sees in your skiing. Then the two of you can continue to discusses how to get there.
Or, maybe a statement such as "I think I stem most of my turn entries, and I would like to initiate with tipping instead" might let her know your level of awareness.
"If you're gonna play the game boy, ya gotta learn to play it right."

ToddW

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #7 on: December 22, 2012, 10:07:25 am »
Byron,

Definitely let the instructor know your motivation for being there, so s/he can aim to maximize your perceived gain.  Sometimes this requires taking one step backwards to take two forwards.  If you think the class is veering off course, speak up and ask if it is this or a communication glitch.

If you go the private route, know that most ski schools pay the instructor more if they are requested by name.  Could be a way to get a happy instructor for follow-up lessons.

Have a great trip!

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #8 on: December 22, 2012, 05:20:50 pm »
The exact reason I solicited you all's input. Great sounding board and return info.
 
Jim "initiating turns with tipping vs stemming" is exactly one of the things I want to accomplish. I will resemble that remark when I meet and talk to my instructor.  Learning patience to ride the skis around the corner to a nice arc vs my typical Z scarve is another thing.
 
Funny, communicating what we think we are doing and what we want to do is sometimes as big a challenge as getting it done I think. I suspect that's where the "instructor" part comes in as surely they have heard a wide variety of terms and rationales as people learn modern or just ski vernacular in general.
 
Thx Todd...good thing to know about instructor incentive.....and.. .no doubt I will have to "unlearn" some or a number things to allow for advancement and realize when I am reverting back to old habits as stressors  such as terrain or snow conditions present themselves.
 
 

LivingProof

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #9 on: December 23, 2012, 07:18:22 am »
Byron,

It's worth of taking some time to think about what you want ahead of time. If the instructor does not ask that question at the start, run away!

Defiantly, posture and hand position feedback is a very basic fundamental. We are talking about fore aft balance in another thread and hand position is so important. Never keep your hands at your side near the hips. It's so easy to slip back into your old habits.

Tipping has different meanings to different instructors. In the Fore Aft thread there are links to some tipping drills done on dryland. Take a look and practice ahead of time.

Ask for two specific thoughts at the end of the lesson that will help you carry on while skiing on your own. And, if you have a good experience, have some $$$ in a convent pocket to tip her!

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #10 on: December 23, 2012, 07:46:46 am »
Thx LP....great info...ironically I reviewed the post on fore /aft balance earlier, pushed the hh vid to my tv, built a make shift ramp in my living room and practiced along with it. I am pretty out of shape in terms of flex. Was a good wake up call tho and shows a need for mucho stretching and more practice.

I will jot some objectives down before I go so that when the time comes I am not standing there like a deer in the headlights when asked.

Good advice in terms of getting parting thoughts and I will definately show the instructor some appreciation for the effort.
« Last Edit: December 23, 2012, 07:49:52 am by byronm »

midwif

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #11 on: December 23, 2012, 10:35:22 am »
Thx LP....great info...ironically I reviewed the post on fore /aft balance earlier, pushed the hh vid to my tv, built a make shift ramp in my living room and practiced along with it. I am pretty out of shape in terms of flex. Was a good wake up call tho and shows a need for mucho stretching and more practice.

I will jot some objectives down before I go so that when the time comes I am not standing there like a deer in the headlights when asked.

Good advice in terms of getting parting thoughts and I will definately show the instructor some appreciation for the effort.

WOW! You  are the man! WOW.
Impressed, I am.
"Play it Sam"

Gary

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #12 on: December 23, 2012, 03:35:54 pm »
GOD>>>>>if only we could get a picture......

still, I'm one that truly appreciates dedication and creativity!  ;D

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #13 on: December 23, 2012, 05:55:28 pm »
Full disclosure folks...My ramp angle was about half of what was depicted in the video. And...even the dog watching from his rug was tilting his head as the episode played out.
 
As I stopped to check the 1" thick piece of unfinished maple I was using to ensure I wasn't scratching it, my other half said, "I am more worried about you falling through the t.v" Then just shook her head...
 
Of course, as I stood there in my skivvies and ski boots, on a board in the living room, apparently being unfairly and unduely scrutinized by two observers.....I held up my hands and said WHAT???  :D
 
So...Gary...no...I am thinking those pictures could only be used as a source for forcing mental health treatment or hush money at a later date..... ;D
 
 
« Last Edit: December 23, 2012, 06:49:35 pm by byronm »

Gary

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #14 on: December 24, 2012, 08:00:22 am »
OK B....I mean really don't you see the marketing value...

Picture this....next season's Christmas card...you in your skivies, elf hat on, in your ski boots, ramp board, you in a full tuck.

with the caption: "Santa's favorite Elf trains to replaces Rudolph"!

So....how is the leg healing, can you pressure the cuff without screaming painfully?

Hoping all is good Byronm and you're ready to charge hard!

Best, G

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #15 on: December 24, 2012, 06:49:17 pm »
Gary..I could do that. In fact I was seriously thinking I could send a similar pic to Salomon to see if perhaps they would sponser me or feature my keenly chiseled 139 lb frame in some type of advertising for remuneration.
 
However, its more likely the "caption" would read "one flew under the cuckoo's nest" followed by a referal to Bellevue...Hit Me..Hit Me.. ;D
 
Leg feels surprisingly good. After last night I am very optomistic. Luckily, the affected area is about 2.5" down from the top of the tongue. Started with the boot undone at the top, all good, then tried to wrap it with an ace (no bueno) hurt worse. Ultimately, put on my compression socks, buckled very moderately and worked good.
 
I have to work out some boot issues but I am rarin to go........ 8) 

Gary

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #16 on: December 25, 2012, 05:44:17 am »
Byronm..... I'm re-thinking.... you should send that pic to Salomon with just your compression shorts on...this way the world might see that chiseled frame on a ski calendar...oh yeah....we discovered you here!  8) 

Sounds great with the leg and boot. "Hey, what pain dude...we're skiing!"

So...when and where is your first day on snow?

Merry Christmas B....G

byronm

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #17 on: December 25, 2012, 10:56:17 am »
Yea. I'm pretty certain that calendar wouldn't adorn the walls of too many shops across the country... :-X
I have to hold down the fort here until the 28th or so. Then the plan is to head north on the 29th/30th to Durango. The only thing that might change is when I get outside of Flagstaff...If a wild hair presents itself...I could push north into Utah and hit Snowbird. Longer drive but perhaps better services in terms of bootfitting and from all accounts, better snow right now.
Merry Christmas....

jim-ratliff

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #18 on: December 25, 2012, 11:36:05 am »
Byron:
If you go to Snowbird, I've heard that Steve Bagley is an excellent boot fitter.
Also, you could contact Peter Keelty for a lesson/consulting.
I have no idea how expensive, but he had worked with Harald AND John Clendenin plus his own thoughts.
I think Gary had skied with Peter.
"If you're gonna play the game boy, ya gotta learn to play it right."

Gary

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Re: Lessons at Durango Questions
« Reply #19 on: December 25, 2012, 02:06:14 pm »
You Nomad... Bryronm! Pack up the camels and head for the nearest watering hole...that's living baby!

Yup, I've skied with Peter and he's fun and loves skiing fast...not sure he's teaching but he's a great guy that has seen and done a lot!

Hope all are enjoing the holiday.
G