For most of the past year we have been working closely with Martin Heckelman, the well-respected international Ski-Instructor and writer, to transport his talents and wealth of experience to the small screen – and we think we’ve succeeded. Marty was one of the first ‘Ski-Maestros’ to successfully bring ski-teaching to print and he followed that up with enormous success with a series of Videos and DVDs. With the new technology offered by the new mobile devices, we’ve taken that experience and expanded it to a completely new level. Starting with the solid foundation of Marty’s well tried and tested methods, we’ve created a truly multi-media product, integrating text, video and audio into the same structure to produce a full-on, immersive learning experience.

Ergonomic considerations have been at the heart of the design: we selected and edited the video content so as to maximise contrast in bright light; We designed large fixed buttons and bold text to avoid the ‘fidgety’ sense that you often get with small mobile devices; a simple navigation process guides the user through the various sections and chapters, while every ‘screen’ has a ‘text’ flip screen to further orient and assist – it is even possible to hit the target with your nose (although you may want to take it easy with the sun cream!)

But most of all the Apps break totally new ground in the breadth of instruction available. Users can first read the background, context and logic of a particular lesson; they can then watch a video clip showing the technique demonstrated; and then they can practice it themselves with the aid of an audio loop which underlines and repeats the instruction – exactly as though their Instructor were right there beside them. Nothing less than a full immersion!

Each App contains a huge volume of instructional media with a User Inferface which is simplicity itself – essential when out braving the elements. In addition to 20 or more individual lessons, a set of focussed ‘programs’ is offered, where the skier can concentrate on specific development or problem areas or simply ‘mix it up’.

We’ve also provided the user with options to customise the App to their own needs, particularly with regard to the Audio-Loop facility. You can adjust the ‘delay’ setting, depending upon how dextrous you are in putting the device away once you’ve hit the ‘play’ button, while the ‘repetitions’ option lets you decide just how much you want to work at the particular lesson!

Ski Tips for the iPhone is a genuine First for the industry – your Ski Instructor in your pocket – and for little more than the cost of a cup of coffee on the mountain!

You can also check out Marty’s own web-site, where you can check out his book, video and DVD offerings:
www.skitips.com

[Warning: Skiing is a physical sport and carries inherent risks and challenges. Never use the Video or Text elements of the App while skiing or using Ski Transportation and always use the Audio Loop facility at a volume level where you are at all times aware of other skiers in your vicinity]