How to Be a Professional Skier

The Winter Olympics often inspire young people to become involved in various professional sporting endeavors like skiing. In order to reach such advanced levels, you must dedicate yourself to developing your skill set. Networking within the skiing world also helps, such as becoming involved with the Federation Internationale de Ski or FIS. The organization accepts both amateur and professional skiers.

Things You'll Need

  • Skis
  • Poles
  • Warm clothing
  • Access to ski mountain
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Instructions

    • 1

      Enroll in ski school. The first step in acquiring the necessary skill set is to learn the proper form. It helps if you live close to a ski mountain as you are going to need to make practice a daily winter activity.

    • 2

      Join a ski club or ski team. This activity builds the basics for racing. Even if you develop proficient skiing skills, you need to hone those skills into an effective race form. Keep taking private lessons in order to focus on your areas of weakness.

    • 3

      Compete in ski contests. The ski team often travels together, giving you ample opportunity to start competing. You can sign up for additional competitions to further your exposure and develop your skills.

    • 4

      Contact the United States Ski Team to find out the current requirements for qualifying ski trials. The ski team maintains a list of all the events that allow you entrance to the Olympic trials.

    • 5

      Train with your ski instructor and focus on particular events. A cohesive training schedule and plan should be reached as to when you will begin competing on an Olympic level. Some trainers like you to start early, while others want to see you record fast times first.

    • 6

      Enter worldwide professional ski events. Telluride, Colorado hosts the most recognizable even in the United States, but there are contests in Mammoth Lakes, Tahoe and Utah as well.

    • 7

      Win races and score endorsements in order to make your money as a professional ski racer. If you do not, you can still make money as a professional skier by working as an instructor or trainer. Having the racing background makes you a valuable commodity for any ski area.

    • 8

      Apply for employment at a ski mountain or with the ski team itself. Once your racing days finish or you decide to retire, you can continue to work in the skiing field.