---
title: Getting Up from a Fall
image: getting-up-from-a-fall.mp4
image_source: https://youtu.be/xRur27Ep8F4
image_credit: Ski with Emily
image_credit_url: https://www.youtube.com/@SkiwithEmily
image_title: "How to get back up after a fall on skis. Different techniques for flat terrain VS on a slope."
image_clip: https://youtu.be/xRur27Ep8F4?1:19-1:22
skill: get back on your feet after falling on any terrain
tags:
- fundamentals
- safety
prerequisite:
- introduction
- wedge-stop
authors:
- renec112
updated: 2026-10-06
---

When you fall, this skill helps you get back on your feet safely and efficiently, whether you're on a flat section or a slope.


## How to do it

First, bring your skis together so they're parallel. Then, point your skis across the slope, perpendicular to the fall line. Dig your edges into the snow to prevent sliding.

Then you can do one of 3 things:

- **Push off with your hand:** Lean forward over your knees, place one hand on the snow, and push yourself up. Bring your knees under you as you stand.

![](/content-images/skiing/getting-up-from-a-fall-clip1.webp)

*[Ski with Emily](https://www.youtube.com/@SkiwithEmily) · [How to get back up after a fall on skis. Different techniques for flat terrain VS on a slope.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRur27Ep8F4&t=79s#1:19-1:22)*

*   **Sit on your skis:** Sit on the back of your skis, then place both hands on your knees and pull yourself forward and up.

![](/content-images/skiing/getting-up-from-a-fall-clip2.webp)

*[Ski with Emily](https://www.youtube.com/@SkiwithEmily) · [How to get back up after a fall on skis. Different techniques for flat terrain VS on a slope.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRur27Ep8F4&t=86s#1:26-1:28)*

*   **One ski off (last resort):** If the other methods are too difficult, take one ski off by pushing down on the binding with your palm. Get onto your knees, then stand up. You'll need to put the ski back on once you're standing.

![](/content-images/skiing/getting-up-from-a-fall-clip3.webp)

*[Ski with Emily](https://www.youtube.com/@SkiwithEmily) · [How to get back up after a fall on skis. Different techniques for flat terrain VS on a slope.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRur27Ep8F4&t=117s#1:57-2:00)*


Once you're standing, grab your poles. Be ready to ski away smoothly.

## Common mistakes
-   **Using your poles to push up:** This often puts you in an awkward, backward position that makes it harder to stand. Use your hands on the snow or your knees instead.
-   **Skis not across the slope:** If your ski tips point too far down, you'll slide forward. If they point too far up, you'll slide backward. Make sure your skis are perfectly across the slope to stay stable.

## Learn more

Watch more here:

https://youtu.be/xRur27Ep8F4

*[Ski with Emily](https://www.youtube.com/@SkiwithEmily) · [How to get back up after a fall on skis. Different techniques for flat terrain VS on a slope.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRur27Ep8F4)*