SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ski-getup-poles-uphill
Getting up after a fall on skis, where do you plant your poles to help push yourself up?
On the uphill side, then push and pull your body up over your skis.
- Downhill, out in front of your ski tips
- Uphill, next to your hip ✔
- Behind your back, between the ski tails
Why: With your skis across the hill below you, plant the poles on the uphill side. Then push and pull on them to bring your body up over your feet and skis.
Huh, didn't know that: If standing up is still too hard, PSIA suggests taking off the uphill ski, since it is easier to click back in while balancing on the downhill ski.
What's the difference between a snowboard beginner and a snowboard instructor? About a week!
Like this card?
References
Answer: Uphill, next to your hip. With your skis across the hill below you, plant the poles on the uphill side. Then push and pull on them to bring your body up over your feet and skis.
- PSIA Alpine Level I Study Guide (Professional Ski Instructors of America), Getting Up From a Fall, p. 28 www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/PSIA_Alpine_Level1_SG.pdf
place their poles uphill and use them to push and pull their bodies up over their feet and skis.
Checked 2026-10-10. - PSIA Alpine Level I Study Guide, Getting Up From a Fall, p. 28 www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/PSIA_Alpine_Level1_SG.pdf
suggest removing the uphill ski. Explain that it is easier to put a ski back on while standing and balancing on the downhill ski.
Checked 2026-10-10.
Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.
More stuff everyone should know
Outdoors & CampingYou fell on a slope with skis still on. Where should your skis be before you stand up?Outdoors & CampingPer the Special Olympics coaching guide, what is the easiest way for a snowboarder to get up after a fall?Outdoors & CampingBefore starting downhill or entering a trail, what should you do?
That's stuff everyone should know.