Weight

Im 336 lbs and im looking to go skiing for the first time, would i face any problems with my weight when it comes to ski lifts or equipment its self?

That is a brave question, but also an interesting one.

336 lb is 24 stone. That is double my weight from when I was doing 50+ mile fell runs, and as a working ski instructor. Nowadays, being reduced to cycling, I hit 14 stone. I know I will reduce weight after my 35 days winters skiing.

Re the lifts. Gondolas should not be an issue, people adjust. Pomas and draglifts will be Ok. I think that in the case of draglifts, you would be better going solo.

Depending upon your physical width, chairlifts might be a problem, in that the width restriction is determined by the chair.

Hence I suggest that you consider your resort choice with regard to their lift system.

That all addresses your lift question. However, this is your first time skiing, and although the lift system questions are relevant, I would suggest that if you have resorts in mind, that you contact them directly, and pose the question.

Next week I will be skiing with people who have no legs, or are blind,or with other difficulties. DSUK will be in Niederau.

thanks for your rely much appreciated as a follow up would i have any problems with the skis or anything like that?

I think Most things Dave has said there are true, however I would argue that most drag lifts these days are solo use and people adjust in chairlifts. If it's a 4 man lift all will he good, if it's a 2 man go solo (2 man are rare these days)

Re ski - shouldn't be.

Point to note, 24 stone is not overly huge causing problems. You will be fine! Enjoy it.

Hi Lb123, I really hope you decide to go, and more importantly I hope you enjoy it and get the bug.

I used to be 19 stone (now just under 15) and never had any issues anywhere as far as lifts were concerned. I see plenty of plus sized people skiing these days as well and like the others have said, people will adjust.

In truth, if you have never skied before, you are likely to be using the services of a ski school for the first week, and any decent instructor should assess your ability and only take you where he feels you are capable of going.

My only advice to you would be to try to always sit centrally in any chair lifts so they remain balanced, and to work on your leg strength before you go.

Hope you have a good trip, please report back and let us know how you get on.

Skiing is quite physically demanding, especially for beginners. You will enjoy your holiday much more if you can build up your physical fitness before you go. This applies regardless of one's weight.

Good luck and welcome to the obsession that is skiing ;)

Yeah I get what your saying and id like to think my leg strength isn't too bad I play American football ( very physically demanding) so I'm at the gym working on my legs especially but thanks for all the comments I'll bare them in mind!

lb123 wrote:I play American football ( very physically demanding)

:) Good man! I was involved in the inaugural Budweiser League back in the 80's so I know exactly where you are coming from.