On-piste skiing is the art of carving clean turns on every kind of terrain. Whether you are starting out, coming back after years off the slopes or chasing performance, every session is built around you: your level, your goals and your doubts.
Every level, from first-timer to expert: on your own, as a couple, with family or friends of a similar level.
Stance, balance and body position
Carved turns, short turns and fluid movement
Speed control and braking, always in control
Every type of terrain: moguls, spring snow, steeper slopes
Rebuilding confidence after a fall or a long break
Why with me
Nearly 20 years of experience
I coach skiers from all over the world on the slopes of La Plagne and Paradiski. My background as a race coach lets me quickly spot what is holding you back and give you the two or three keys that change everything.
What to bring
Helmet, skis, boots and poles
A valid lift pass
Goggles or sunglasses, gloves, sun cream
A little cash for a drink
Prices
How much is a on-piste skiing lesson?
From €195 to €530 depending on length and season, for the whole group rather than per person.
I have never skied. Is a private lesson right for me?
Yes. We work on the fundamentals at your pace, on gentle slopes and in a reassuring setting. It is the fastest way to gain confidence.
Can a family or friends of different levels share a lesson?
Yes, as long as the levels are fairly close: the price is the same for up to 4, 5 or 6 people depending on the format. If the gap is too wide, I will suggest splitting the group into two sessions so everyone progresses. Tell me who is coming in your message and I will advise you beforehand.
I have not skied for years. Is this right for me?
Yes, coming back after a long break is very common. We rebuild the feeling step by step, on slopes chosen to bring your confidence back. My free guide “Does Skiing Come Back?” prepares you before you travel: see the free guides.
Which lesson length should I choose?
The 2.5 hours suits a warm-up or one specific point. 3 or 4 hours let you really work on a theme and still ski. The full day (9 am – 5 pm) is the format for complete programmes: several activities, a big outing or a change of area. Over several days progress really sets in, with 5% off from 6 days. Tell me your goal and I will advise you.
Do I need to be physically fit to ski?
You do not need to be an athlete for on-piste lessons: the pace adapts to you, with breaks. But arriving with prepared legs changes everything, especially in the first days. My free “Ready to Ski” programme (8 weeks) prepares thighs and knees: see the free guides. Ski touring, however, does require being fit.
How do I know my level?
The form offers four markers: beginner, intermediate (blue and red runs), advanced (red and black runs) and expert. If in doubt, choose “Not sure yet”: I assess your skiing at the start of the lesson and adapt the session.
Is the lift pass included?
No, you need a valid lift pass, bought separately. During the lesson you do get priority access to the lifts.
Where can I rent ski or snowboard gear?
At a rental shop in the resort, ideally before the lesson so you arrive ready. I can advise you on gear suited to your level and point you to a trusted shop.
Can we get photos or videos of our lesson?
Yes, in two ways. I am happy to take photos and videos myself during the lesson and send them to you: it is included in the lesson, but not automatic, so just ask me. For professional quality, the photographer Alban Guerry-Suire (@_stonecat) can also photograph your lesson, and film with a drone if you like: I will tell you about the conditions. It is a separate service: he bills his work directly, with the price agreed with him. For children, we ask for the parents’ consent. Mention it in your message and I will take care of it.
What if the weather is bad?
The lesson goes ahead and we adapt the plan to the day’s weather: choice of runs, technical content, activity. If the slopes or lifts are closed, or the weather makes access dangerous, the ESF may cancel the lesson: the sums paid are then refunded (if a session is cut short, a credit is given). Details in the ESF terms and conditions.
How does booking work?
1. Send me your request (booking form, email or WhatsApp) with your dates, level and goals. 2. I reply personally within 24 hours to build the plan with you. 3. I guide you through confirming and paying with ESF La Plagne Aime 2000.
Testimonials
What clients say
Back on skis
“After 25 years without skiing, I even skied a red run completely relaxed!”
Read the full review
At 50, after 25 years without skiing, I was a little nervous about getting back on the slopes. From the very first runs on well-chosen blue slopes, he put me at ease. Thanks to his calm, patience and teaching skills, I quickly rediscovered long-forgotten sensations. The icing on the cake: I even skied a red run completely relaxed! I highly recommend Tim to anyone who wants to (re)start skiing with confidence.
Sarah L. · Paris, FranceGroup improvement
“Valuable technical advice that helped us really improve.”
Read the full review
We had an absolutely brilliant week of skiing with Tim. As a group of good (but certainly not pro) skiers, Tim did a remarkable job of tailoring the sessions to our needs. His teaching is very effective: he gives valuable technical advice that helped us really improve, always simply and with good humour. As skilled as he is friendly.
Get “Does Skiing Come Back?” for free: how long to become independent, whether to take lessons, budget, gear, lifts without stress and my runs to start on in La Plagne.
