While recreational snow skiers prefer leisurely rides down mellow slopes, freestyle skiers opt for aggressive maneuvers on boxes and rails. Freestyle skiers use specialized training facilities known as terrain parks. These ski areas generally are broken into sections for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers. ABC-of-Skiing recommends learning to ride on a beginner rail that features a takeoff ramp. The ramp allows you to easily mount the rail when learning new tricks and maneuvers.
Step 1
Wear a skiing helmet that features a hard outer shell to keep your head protected from the edges of the rail. Point the front tips of your skis towards the rail. Ski forward with your knees slightly bent to balance your riding stance.
Step 2
Approach the rail at a comfortable speed to avoid painful slide outs. Keep your skis parallel to the obstacle as you advance towards the rail. Shift your body weight onto your heels as you ascend the takeoff ramp.
Step 3
Straighten your legs to jump as the skis reach the summit of the takeoff ramp. Lift your feet to prevent the edges of the skis from clipping the rail. Align the skis above the rail in a perpendicular position.
Step 4
Bend your knees as the underside of the skis makes contact with the rail. Keep your body weight evenly distributed between the left and right ski as you begin to slide forward. Hold your arms parallel to the ground for increased balance.
Step 5
Perform a quick vertical leap as you reach the end of the rail. Rotate your skis 90 degrees to regain a forward riding stance. Bend your knees while descending onto the snow to ensure a smooth landing.
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