Going off jumps on skis is a combination of anticipation and the proper technique. During the approach, your focus is on launching correctly and completing the jump with a controlled landing. An extreme skier might kick-out in midair, making a jump appear complicated. But looking closely, you notice his posture is similar when he takes off and lands. Jumping on skis is not difficult and the only requirement is a desire to have fun by catching air. You begin by learning the correct position of your body, skis and poles.
Basics
Step 1
Place your skis on a flat section and lock your boots onto the bindings. Stand with your skis parallel at shoulder width. Look straight ahead instead of down.
Step 2
Extend your arms ahead from your sides at waist level and hold your poles so the tips are pointing back.
Step 3
Bend slightly forward at the waist and flex your knees to assume a crouched position directly above the bindings. Spring straight up and flex your knees like shock absorbers as you land. Hold this position.
Step 4
Note your posture and upper body position in relation to the bindings. You should be bent slightly forward at the waist with your center of gravity over the bindings. This is the posture and position you assume when launching off a jump and landing.
Step 5
Repeat the standing jump several times until you are able to maintain the correct posture and position over the bindings each time. Make sure your skis are parallel at shoulder width.
Jumping
Step 1
Find a downhill slope that leads to a modest ramp or drop-off with a consistent landing area below. Take your normal position on your skis at the top of the slope.
Step 2
Start downhill with your arms comfortably at your sides for balance. Maintain parallel skis the width of your shoulders. Maintain enough speed to carry you off the jump.
Step 3
Assume the crouched position directly over your bindings as you approach the launching point. Extend your arms ahead with your ski poles angled back. Spring up an instant before launching. Immediately bring your knees up as you launch into the air.
Step 4
Focus on the landing area ahead. Keep your skis parallel and allow your legs to extend during the flight. Flex your knees as you land, relax and ski on.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice springing up and landing on a modest slope before attempting to go off a jump. Always ski to your ability and don't attempt jumps from a height you cannot handle.
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