When you need to change direction but can't put in a real turn, you can use a kick turn. This is how to get out of a tricky situation if you run out of piste space but still need to turn. Practise kick turns in both directions before you really need them.

Stand with your skis parallel across the fall line. Plant your poles uphill, where they are out of the way but can be used for support.	Swing your downhill ski off the snow and place its tail on the snow next to the tip of the other ski.
Swing the ski back onto the snow, facing in the opposite direction. This position is uncomfortable and unstable so, as soon as it is back on the snow, transfer your weight to it.	Bring the other ski round parallel.
You should now be standing in the original position, but facing the other way. [Photos: ifyouski.com]

TIPS

• Place your poles carefully before you start your kick turn. You don't want to have to replant them while you are teetering on the brink of disaster.
• Replace the downhill ski exactly parallel. Otherwise, when you transfer your weight, you'll start to slide.
• Lean back into hill, not out over the valley, using your poles for support.
• If you have knee problems, try to avoid kick turns.