Objective
Simultaneous edge change, turning, and steering of the skis form the basis for the basic form of parallel turns in long radius.
Terrain: Gentle to moderately steep terrain
Movement Description
Alpine Basic Position – Release the edge grip over the becoming outside ski, a forward, upward, and inward movement in the direction of the turn supports entry into the fall line – edge change – establish the Alpine Basic Position – steer the change of direction to completion
Methodical Progression
- Repeat snowplough steering – gradually decrease the snowplough position
- Start in parallel ski position – fan progression up to the fall line
- From stationary: Alpine Basic Position – forward, upward, and inward movement – drift into the fall line – downward motion – steer towards the slope (repeat several times)
- Garland: drift into the fall line – steer towards the slope – link the movements together
- Single turn
- One-and-a-half turns
- Link parallel turns
- Vary terrain, turn radius, and speed
Tip
The slightly open stance helps maintain balance and makes it easier to change edges, turn, and steer the skis
POLE PLANT
Objective
Pole planting helps maintain balance, assists in releasing the skis, supports turning, and helps establish rhythm.
Movement Description
The movement of the pole plant is controlled by the wrist and elbow. As a rule, the pole is planted between the binding and the tip of the inside ski.
Methodical Progression
- Stationary exercise – explain and place the pole plant
- Traversing – pole plant (placement exercise)
- Traversing – prepare the pole plant with upward motion – plant the pole – downward motion – link the movements
- Integrate the pole plant into parallel turns