In the heat of Macau’s summer, probably the last thing you would expect to be doing is strapping on a set of skis. But at Macau Ski and Snowboard School, which just opened in April, that’s exactly what you can do to enjoy some pre-season training and make sure you are ready to handle any downhill run when the winter holidays arrive.
This first-of-its-kind centre is an innovative indoor training venue dedicated to offering skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts a safe and comfortable environment for training. It offers a carpet-style indoor skiing simulator with artificial rolling slopes.
“Powered by an electric motor, the facility is designed for all ages. Our trainers are experienced in working with people of all ages and experience levels. On a moving carpet, you’ll learn skills and lots of sports specific ski or snowboard muscle memory,” says Joanne Tong, one of the owners of the centre.
An inclined rolling carpet works as if it were a large treadmill, allowing the trainee to move like they would on the slopes, essentially carving from edge to edge and schussing down the slopes, Joanne notes. “Edging enables turning and your progression down the slope just as on snow.”
These simulators are beneficial as a workout and training tool as they tend to mimic the real physical motion of skiing, but they may not mimic the actual physical control of the skis on a real snow surface. “Skiing on a rolling carpet actually requires a more sensitive skill in controlling your sense of balance,” she explains.
The carpet pile is usually very dense creating positive resistance. This forces the skier or rider to carve turns and learn consistent edging, pressure, and steering.
“Skiers and riders of all abilities will find it easier to learn on a giant carpet simulator than on snow slopes, and will see their skills advance quickly through goal-orientated programs based on progressive instruction techniques,” she says.
For the time being, there is only one training facility in the centre that can host a maximum of three skiers at a time. The speed can be adjusted, based on the experience level of skiers, ranging from beginner to intermediate. A second facility is expected to be launched in the second half of the year.
“The new facility will optimise technical training because the speed and gradient can be varied. The steeper slope is essential for both recreational and expert skiers,” says Joanne.
Downhill skiing and snowboarding can lead to both serious and minor injuries if you aren’t prepared. Skiers and snowboarders often require specific conditioning and workout routines to not only perform better and prevent fatigue, but to help reduce the risk of injury on the slopes, notes Joanne.
And even if you ski in the off-season, the entrance and travelling fee are still extremely expensive, so it’s a great idea to master some of the skills before heading off on your trip.
“My previous skiing experience convinces me that practicing one month in advance can reduce the time wasted getting our bodies used to skiing conditions,” she says.
“We provide year-round ski and snowboard instruction and training on state of the art simulators in a controlled indoor environment.Humans are never meant to hibernate!”
Macau Ski and Snowboard School
Rua Graciosa No.29-53, Chiao Kuang Building, Rés-do-Chào A, Macau
+853 2848 1868
