<human>:  I want to take up skiing as a hobby, what equipment and techniques do I need to learn?
<bot>: In order to take up skiing as a hobby, you need to first get the necessary equipment such as ski boots, skis, poles, and a helmet. You will also need to learn the basic techniques of skiing, such as how to turn, stop, and use the ski lifts. If you are a beginner, it may be wise to take a ski lesson from a qualified instructor to learn the basics as well as safety guidelines. Finally, practice makes perfect, so be sure to get out on the slopes as often as possible to hone your new skill!