Ask why.
A movement is easier to explore when you understand its purpose. I value everyday language, demonstrations and the chance to ask the same question another way.
SKI TRAINING / ADAM MATTHEWS
IASI LEVEL 2 QUALIFIED SKI INSTRUCTORI started late.
I learned fast.
I remember
the beginning.
I learned to ski just three years ago, later in life, and progressed through my instructor qualifications to IASI Level 2 in that short time.
That gives me a particular perspective: the unfamiliar boots, the nerves, the overthinking and the moment something finally clicks are still fresh in my mind.
3 years
From starting skiing to the perspective I bring today.
IASI Level 2
A qualification earned through focused instructor training.
Adult learner
A recent understanding of the challenge of starting later.
WHY MY JOURNEY MATTERS
Learning is
still close
to the surface.
I didn’t grow up on skis. I had to learn the language, the movements and the confidence as an adult.
Going through that process recently helps me relate to the questions that can feel too obvious to ask. What should this feel like? Why can I do it on one run but lose it on another? Why does trying harder sometimes make everything feel less natural?
My progress came through taking the learning seriously: working with instructors, practising with a purpose, asking questions and being willing to go back to the basics. Completing my qualifications quickly was an important milestone. I’m still training, testing my understanding and learning from people with far more experience.
My story is an example of what a committed adult learner can work towards. Your pace, your goals and your starting point deserve their own plan.
Read my full skiing story ↗WHAT SHAPES MY APPROACH
Clear explanations.
Useful practice.
A bit more belief.
Find the feeling.
Knowing the words and feeling a movement are different things. A manageable task, suitable terrain and a clear focus help connect the explanation to what happens on snow.
Make it yours.
Progress means being able to repeat a useful change, understand when it helps and gradually take it into different situations. Confidence grows alongside that understanding.
START WITH ONE USEFUL CHANGE
Have a focus.
Give it a chance.
For the adult improver
If you started later, feel held back by nerves or seem to repeat the same skiing every holiday, there is plenty here to explore. Start with the learning approach, then choose a topic that connects with your own skiing.
For the curious skier
If instructor training interests you, watch my exam story and the conversations with experienced trainers. They show both the commitment involved and the fact that there is always another layer to understand.
WATCH THE JOURNEY / EPISODE 13
From learning
to qualifying.
My own account of the instructor exams and reaching IASI Level 2, with the mountain experiences around it.
My qualification journey, in my own words. This is a personal account of training and exams.
Episode 13: watch, listen & read more ↗THE JOURNEY / ON SNOW
More time learning.
More reasons to ski.
A FEW QUESTIONS
Before we talk.
What is your qualification?
I hold the IASI Level 2 ski instructor qualification. IASI is the Irish Association of Snowsports Instructors. My qualification is part of my development, and I continue to train and learn.
What makes your perspective different?
I learned as an adult only three years ago and completed my qualifications in a short period. I still remember the practical and emotional challenges of being new to skiing. That recent experience shapes the way I explain my journey and approach improvement.
Will I progress at the same speed?
There is no single timetable. Time on snow, prior experience, fitness, coaching, conditions and your own goals all affect the journey. My story offers perspective; a useful plan starts with your situation.
Can I join you on a ski camp?
Explore the Zermatt camp page for the current plans with Simon, Meli and PDS. Get in touch about your skiing level and whether guiding or coaching is the right fit.
TRAIN WITH SIMON / SKI WITH ME
Ready for your
next mountain day?
For ski training: contact Simon at PDS.
If you’re looking for lessons, coaching or help taking your skiing further, get in touch with Simon at PDS Snowsport. Tell him about your skiing level, your goals and when you’d like to train.
Want to ski with me?
If you’d like to ski with me, get in touch directly. Tell me where and when you’re planning to ski, your level and what you have in mind, and we can talk about the possibilities.