Killington, VT – Vermont’s Killington Resort will offer a select number of free Max 5 Learn to Ski and Snowboard lessons, which provide a personal touch with small group instruction, this season for two days in December and during the month of January.n“Industry statistics show that new skiers and riders need to spend at least five days on snow before they are hooked for a lifetime,” said Dave Beckwith, Killington Resort’s director of snow sports. “We’re breaking the introductory barrier by offering free learning days and partnering with resorts across the country to promote January as a great time to learn to ski or ride.”

To kick off the 2010-11 season, Killington Resort will offer two free Learn to Ski and Snowboard days for first time skiers and riders ages 16 and older on Dec. 10 and Dec. 19, the latter in conjunction with World Snowboard Day. Free lessons are limited to the first 50 who register for Dec. 10 and the first 100 for Dec. 19.

Killington Resort is also partnering with hundreds of resorts across the country for January Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and offering free Learn to Ski and Snowboard lessons to anyone 16 and older accompanied by a friend/family member purchasing a full-day adult lift ticket on the same day. Free lessons are limited to the first 150 who register and are not valid Jan. 15-17, 2011. Last year, more than 30,000 new skiers and riders were introduced to winter sports during the January Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month promotion. Those who take advantage of the free learning opportunities may purchase two additional days of lessons, including rentals and learning area lift tickets, for $60.

“We believe that by applying our professional staff’s proven teaching techniques through the Max 5 program, and breaking down the cost to just $20 per day, we’ll introduce many new skiers and riders to winter sports this season,” Beckwith added.

Advanced reservations are required for guests to take advantage of these free learing oppoortunities by calling (800) 923-9444. Free lessons are valid for first time riders and skiers ages 16 years and older. Only one one free day per person during the 2010-11 season, and some restrictions may apply.