Ski jumping on a winter holiday: how it works, equipment and safety

Check whether lessons, guided activities or designated routes are available locally. For less familiar winter sports in particular, a short introduction can help you understand the rules, technique and safety distances. Families should also check minimum age requirements, availability of children’s equipment, places to take breaks and how close the activity is to their accommodation.

The right clothing makes a big difference to whether you enjoy ski jumping. Depending on the activity, you may need several breathable layers, warm gloves, non-slip shoes or sport-specific protective clothing. Conditions can change quickly in icy, windy or fresh-snow weather, so take the forecast, daylight, visibility and local advice seriously.

If you are new to the sport, it is best to start on easy routes or with an instructor. The pace, terrain and group size should suit your ability. For longer outings, take drinks, a small snack and a charged phone. In alpine terrain, you should also consider avalanche conditions, marked routes and return times.

Ski jumping is an option for winter holidaymakers looking for more to do alongside skiing or snowboarding. Some activities are relaxed and focused on enjoyment, while others are athletic and technical. It is especially appealing to combine it with a ski area that also offers sledging, cross-country trails, winter hiking, ice skating or places of interest. This keeps your holiday flexible if the weather, snow conditions or your fitness are not suitable for a day on the slopes.

If you want to try ski jumping, start with an easy introduction. A short briefing, suitable clothing and realistic expectations make all the difference. Many winter sports seem easier than they are when you try them for the first time. So allow plenty of time and avoid starting with long routes, high speeds or difficult terrain.

Breaks and keeping an eye on conditions are important, too. Cold, wind, slippery surfaces or soft snow can change how strenuous an activity feels. If you are with children or inexperienced participants, choose areas with good visibility and keep sessions short. That way, the activity will be a positive memory and you can try it again on another day of your holiday.

Ski jumping is an especially good way to complement a traditional day on the slopes. After several days of skiing, a different activity adds variety and may also suit people in your group who do not ski. Many destinations combine winter sports with sledging, cross-country trails, winter hiking paths, ice rinks or guided tours. This makes your holiday more flexible and less dependent on a single sport.

When it comes to ski jumping, less is often more: a shorter session with good preparation is better than a programme that is so long it leaves you short of energy and concentration. On the first day of your holiday in particular, give yourself time to adjust to the altitude, cold and snow. If you want to combine several activities, schedule breaks between days and make sure your equipment and clothing have time to dry.

For groups, it is a good idea to agree on meeting points, times and difficulty levels in advance. That way, more experienced participants can try more challenging options while beginners choose an easier one. With this kind of planning, ski jumping remains a worthwhile addition to your winter holiday rather than just a last-minute way to fill time.

Before your trip, it helps to run through a quick checklist for ski jumping: Is the activity suited to your ability? Are the weather and snow conditions suitable? Are there alternatives if the lifts are closed or the weather is poor? Do you have all the necessary equipment? Sorting these things out in advance helps you avoid unnecessary journeys and make better use of your winter holiday.

It is also worth looking back after your trip. Was your accommodation conveniently located? Was any equipment missing? Which activity would you like to spend more time on next time? Experiences like these make planning your next trip easier and help you choose your ski holiday more carefully.

Ski jumping combines the approach, take-off, flight and landing on specially prepared hills. The most important decisions are made in the first few minutes: check your own safety, identify your location as precisely as possible, call for help clearly and warn other winter sports enthusiasts. Stay in a safe place and follow the instructions of the local piste patrol. The information on winter sports can help you plan your day.

If you are unsure what to do, follow a clear sequence. Secure the area, check whether anyone is responsive and get help. Do not present guesses as a diagnosis. Professional help is especially important in cases of unconsciousness, severe pain, breathing problems or a possible head or spinal injury. Move anyone who is injured only if there is immediate danger.

Marked routes, brightly visible clothing and a charged phone make communication easier, but do not guarantee reception. A brief note with your accommodation and contact details can make arrangements easier after an accident. For equipment and conduct, ski and snowboard equipment and piste safety are useful resources.

If possible, note the time, location and people involved. In the event of a collision, exchange contact details. The official FIS ski jumping documents are the relevant reference for conduct, providing assistance and consideration for others. Local rescue and operating instructions take precedence.

• Check emergency numbers and agree on a meeting point before setting off.
• Read the piste map and current notices.
• Use only suitable, inspected equipment.
• Take a break if the weather changes, you become tired or you are injured.
• In an emergency, give your location, piste, lift and situation.

What makes ski jumping special?

The approach, take-off, flight and landing require precise technique and well-practised movements.

Can holidaymakers learn to ski jump?

Options vary by location and depend on age, experience and the safety arrangements in place.

Why are ski jumps different sizes?

Ski jumps are classified according to their design and intended use.