The best skiers execute graceful S-curves down the slope, their skis leaving two neat tracks in their wake. These skiers make their turns look effortless. Ski technology makes turning on snow skies easier than ever. Learning how to turn properly helps you control your speed, navigate around obstacles and ski with the ease of the pros. And a properly executed turn uses less energy, allowing you to stay on the snow longer.
Step 1
Stand with your weight distributed evenly over both skis, your skis approximately hip width apart. Bend your knees slightly as you face forward.
Step 2
Push off with your poles. As you gain momentum down the slope, gradually shift your weight onto the left ski, tipping both skis slightly on edge as you do so. Some people have compared the movement to pressing down with the big toe of your left foot, as if you were gently depressing the gas pedal in a car. This weight shift will cause your ski to begin to turn to the left.
Step 3
Transfer more of your weight to your left ski as the turn becomes more pronounced. Keep your upper body facing down the slope and your hands in front of you.
Step 4
Reach out with your right hand and plant your right ski pole a little in front of you and to the right. At the same time, transfer you weight to the big toe side of your right foot and tip both skis slightly onto the right edges. Your ski will begin to turn to the right.
Step 5
Repeat these steps, planting your ski pole on the side you wish to turn next and redistributing your weight from ski to ski to initiate the turns.
Tips and Warnings
- Make the turns gradual. Turning on skis is about finesse, not muscle. Don't try to force the turns. Start on a shallow slope and move to steeper terrain when you're comfortable.
References
- "Breakthrough on the New Skis"; Lito Tejada-Flores; 2001
- You Can Ski: Introduction to Carving
Member Comments