Please introduce yourself in a few words.

My name is Martin Marovski. I am a coach and instructor in climbing and alpinism. Together with my partner Aleko Darzhikov, I run the “School of Alpinism and Climbing.” For more than 30 years I have been professionally involved in skiing, alpinism, climbing, and mountain training. I have had the opportunity to work, lead groups, and climb many classic and difficult routes in Bulgaria and abroad. For me, the mountain is not a hobby – it is a profession, an environment, and a constant teacher.

How did you get into skiing, and what motivates you to keep improving your skills?

I started skiing as a child, and over time it naturally became an extension of the activities I lead in the winter mountains. With experience, I realized that good technique is not only about enjoyment, but also about safety. What motivates me is the process of improvement - the feeling that there is always more to learn, regardless of experience.

What does it feel like to descend an extreme line or try a new trick on snow?

It is a feeling of complete concentration. In such moments, it’s just you, the snow, and the line you follow. Everything unnecessary fades away. It’s a state that’s hard to describe, but it’s one of the reasons people return to the mountains again and again.

What is the biggest risk you have taken in the sport and what did you learn from it?

Anyone involved in alpinism and freeride knows that risk is always present. The most challenging situations I’ve faced while skiing were related to unstable snow conditions. This taught me that experience is paramount - to rely on your knowledge, underestimate nothing, and make calm decisions even when conditions are dynamic.

What do you consider the biggest challenge in extreme skiing?

Assessing real limits - both of the terrain and of your own abilities. The biggest challenge is staying rational, even though adrenaline often pushes toward impulsiveness. Knowing when to say “today is not the day” is key.

How do you prepare physically and mentally for skiing in difficult conditions, such as off-piste terrain or competitions?

Physical preparation includes strength training, endurance workouts, climbing, and working in the mountains. Mental preparation is related to analyzing conditions, planning, and above all, respecting risk. I always monitor avalanche bulletins and snow conditions before every run.

Have you ever had injuries or accidents while skiing? If so, how did you cope with them?

Yes. Every active athlete goes through such situations. The most important thing is the right reaction in the moment and discipline during recovery. Injuries teach you to be more careful and not to compromise on preparation.

Which factors do you consider most important when choosing insurance for skiers?

For me, the key factors are: Coverage for extreme sports – essential if you ski off-piste or on challenging terrain. Mountain rescue + transport – including helicopter rescue. Medical expenses and extended cover related to snow accidents. Clearly defined terms – no fine print or ambiguities.

Would you recommend ski insurance to your colleagues or friends, and why?

Yes, absolutely. Professional experience shows me that preparation reduces risk, but does not eliminate it. Insurance is not an unnecessary expense - it is part of a responsible attitude toward yourself and the people you ski with.

What advice would you give beginners who want to try more extreme slopes?

Train under the supervision of an instructor or a more experienced skier and develop solid technique. Don’t skip stages. And learn to read the terrain - this is a skill that comes with time and practice.

What mistakes do skiers most often make, and how can they be avoided?

Most often, speed is underestimated and skills are overestimated. Many people also ignore avalanche conditions or go off-piste without the necessary equipment. The solution is simple: more training, more attention, and no compromises with safety.

In your opinion, how can insurance companies make their products more attractive to skiers?

By offering clearly defined products for different levels of skiing - from recreational to extreme. And above all, by explaining in plain language what is included and what is not. Transparency is the most important thing.

What is the most memorable story from your skiing adventures?

The most memorable moments are always connected with good conditions, a clean line, and teamwork. I’ve had many such days - days when nature, technique and the group work in perfect harmony. These are moments that stay with you for life.

Is there a person or event that inspired you in the sport?

I am inspired by people who approach the mountains with respect and consistency - people who put quality and safety before ego. There are many names in the sport, but the real lessons come from personal encounters with such individuals.

What would you say to people who underestimate the need for extreme sports insurance?

I would tell them that good preparation is a combination of skills, equipment, information, and insurance. The latter is a component of safety that should not be overlooked - not because you expect something bad to happen, but because in the mountains everyone must be responsible for themselves and for those who rely on them. “If you ski calmly, insurance gives you peace of mind. And if you ski extremely - it’s essential. In both cases, you win. Insurance is not a worst-case scenario - it’s the cheapest way not to think about worst-case scenarios.”

School Programs for the Winter Season

The “School of Alpinism and Climbing” announces its winter offerings for the 2025–2026 season, including four main направления - ice climbing, dry tooling and mixed climbing, winter mountaineering and technical ascents, as well as ski touring. The programs are aimed at both beginners and advanced participants: a two-week ice climbing course, dry tooling and mixed climbing courses, winter mountaineering (levels 1 and 2), glacier travel, ski touring and ascents of difficult peaks and walls in Bulgaria. Small groups are used. Individual training - upon request.
👉 You can view the school’s programs here: https://www.katerene.bg/articles/zimni-predlozheniia-za-20252026