Adaptive skiing is an incredible way for disabled people to experience the thrill of the slopes, and I recently had the chance to try it at Snozone Milton Keynes. As a wheelchair user, I used a sit ski—a specially designed adaptive skiing device with two skis underneath a slim seat that supports your lower back while your legs extend in front. With my gear ready, it was time to hit the slopes!
Getting Started with Adaptive Skiing
Snozone Milton Keynes has excellent accessibility features, including rubber matting at the entrance, making it easier to wheel onto the slopes. The transfer to the sit ski was relatively straightforward, although the seat was a little lower than expected. Once securely strapped in, I was ready for my first experience with disability snowsports.
One of the most impressive adaptations at Snozone is their method for using the ski lift with a sit ski. A rope in the footwell loops around the seat of the button lift, helping to pull sit ski users up the slope. I had expected to start on a beginner slope, but my instructor, Mike, took me straight to the top! For my first run, he had full control, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride down.
Experiencing the Thrill of Disability Snowsports
Adaptive skiing is both exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking at first, but the experience was unforgettable. The ski lift was a little bumpy, making me feel like I was about to take off like Santa’s sleigh! As I progressed, Mike provided instructions on leaning into turns, giving me more control with each run. The ultimate goal in future lessons is to use handheld or attached rudders to ski independently, a key milestone in adaptive skiing.
Thanks to the fantastic team at Snozone Milton Keynes, my confidence grew with every run. Their expertise and encouragement made a huge difference, and I felt incredibly supported throughout the experience.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
While the only tricky part was getting out of the sit ski at the end, I managed it with determination. Watching my friend Bailey try adaptive skiing afterward was just as exciting, and it was great to share the experience.
This was definitely a win for Average Disabled Jen, and I can’t wait to take more lessons! Plus, I get to check another experience off my 30 new things in my 30th year list. If you’re interested in disability snowsports, I highly recommend getting in touch with Snozone Milton Keynes to try adaptive skiing for yourself.
Try Adaptive Skiing for Yourself!
Would you give adaptive skiing a go? Whether you’re a wheelchair user, have a physical disability, or are just curious about disability snowsports, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions—I’d love to chat!
