Your first telemark lesson is a chance to get comfortable with unfamiliar gear and movements at a manageable pace. You’ll learn how the boots and bindings work, practice balancing in a telemark stance, and begin linking turns on suitable terrain. You don’t need prior telemark experience, but basic downhill skiing can help. Knowing what to wear and what to expect lets you focus on the instruction instead of sorting out avoidable details.
Get Familiar With the Equipment
Telemark skis may look much like alpine skis, but the bindings leave your heel free to rise. The boot flexes at the ball of the foot, letting you bend your knee and move into a low, split stance. Your instructor can help check that the boots fit, the bindings are adjusted properly, and you know how to step in and release safely.
Wear a properly fitted helmet, warm layers, ski gloves, and goggles suited to the conditions. Bring water and any personal items you may need, such as sunscreen. Ask the school what equipment it provides and what you should bring. If you already own skis or boots, confirm they are compatible with telemark bindings before the lesson.
Build a Balanced Stance
A telemark turn uses a staggered stance: one ski moves forward while the other trails behind, with the heel of the trailing foot lifted. Keep your weight centered between both skis, bend both knees, and let your hips stay low rather than reaching far forward. Your instructor will help you find a stance that feels stable and controlled.
Expect to practice the movement slowly before using it to turn. You may work on flat ground or a gentle slope, repeating the motion on each side. Small, even steps are easier to control than a deep lunge. Keep your upper body relaxed and look toward where you want to go, not down at your skis.
Practice Turns at Your Pace
Once the stance feels familiar, your instructor will guide you through turns on terrain suited to your ability. You’ll learn to shift into the telemark position as you change direction and to release the stance between turns. At first, focus on balance and a smooth rhythm rather than speed or making a large turn.
Falls and awkward movements are a normal part of learning. Follow your instructor’s guidance on where to stop, how to get up, and how to leave space for other skiers. If a movement feels uncomfortable or you’re losing control, say so. Your instructor can adjust the terrain, pace, or exercise to help you practice safely.
Prepare Before You Arrive
Check the lesson details in advance, including where to meet, whether lift access is included, and what equipment is available. Arrive with enough time to get dressed and have your gear checked. Eat beforehand and bring water; learning a new movement takes concentration, and cold or hunger can make it harder to stay focused.
Wear layers you can adjust as you warm up, and avoid cotton next to your skin because it can hold moisture. Tell the instructor about your skiing experience, any concerns, and relevant injuries or physical limitations. If you’re new to skiing as well as telemarking, mention that when you book so the lesson can match your starting point.
A first telemark lesson is about learning the equipment, finding a balanced stance, and practicing turns step by step. Dress for the weather, arrive prepared, and tell your instructor what you need from the session. Contact Tulsa Telemark School to ask what to bring and how to get ready.