The social side of these courses is as much a motivation as technical refreshment. Simon Hotchin, a 58-year-old nuclear fusion expert, will attend his 13th Première Neige Clinic this year – I’ve kept in touch since we met. He told me recently: “It’ll be especially good this year to catch up with people I’ve not seen since 2019. We all meet at lunch and in the evening, and support each other in our learning.”
As well as returning regulars, the course is attracting new clients this season. Michelle, a retiree from Manchester, says: “My husband and I began skiing 12 years ago and always have lessons. But last winter, all that improved was my baking, so we were looking for an early-season course. This trip seems the perfect combination of confidence-building coaching and good company.”
Indeed, it is. On my last day in Val d’Isère, the sun came out over sparkling fresh powder. With gentle reminders from Zimmer to apply the fundamentals drilled into us on the previous days, my group played with increased confidence (and mutual backslapping) in the deep snow and on groomed pistes alike. And I reaped the benefits even more on my next trip that winter – I felt so much fresher on a pair of skis.
After 18 months away from the Alps, I will be slavering for the slopes more than ever this December. But, for the same reason, the first thing I’ll do is take a technique tune-up course. If anything, it’s a good excuse for a bonus ski holiday.
How to do it
Le Ski’s Première Neige Clinic costs £1,449 for a week, from November 27 to December 4, or £849 for the mini-break, December 4 to 7, based on two sharing, including flights, transfers, chalet board, lift passes, tuition and video analysis (01484 548996; leski.com).
More early-season courses
Biomechanical analysis
Renowned ski coach Warren Smith runs five-day pre-season courses throughout November and early December on the Klein Matterhorn glacier, accessed from Cervinia in Italy, before switching to his Swiss base in Verbier for five- and two-day courses. As a bonus, he introduces biomechanical analysis (of balance and flexion) and exercises to protect against fatigue and injury. From £649 for five-day courses; £229 for two days’ coaching (07747809545; warrensmith-skiacademy.com).
