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The aim of most intermediate skiers is to perform parallel turns on any
slope and in any conditions. Parallel turns are the most elegant and efficient
way to ski. By letting gravity and your skis do the work, you exert only
such effort as is required to steer and brake. You remain relaxed and fluid
while performing powerful, precise turns. |
[Photo: ifyouski.com] |
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In order to break into the world of parallel skiing, you need to learn
to place both skis on their new edges simultaneously, not one after the
other as in a stem turn. The turn is then completed using the same skidding
control you have developed in your basic swings and uphill stem turns.
With a bit of application and a varying amount of practice, anyone can
ski parallel. There is nothing wrong with continuing to use your basic
swings and uphill stem turns on more difficult terrain, while practising
parallel turns on shallower slopes.
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[Photo: ifyouski.com] |
Poles Are ImportantMany
common faults which arise in advanced skiing can be directly traced back
to technical weaknesses in skiing on the flat. By far the most common example
of this is leaving the poles planted in the snow too long during each turn.
This causes the inside arm to get pulled far behind you, rotating out from
the shoulder in an action reminiscent of opening a door outward, away from
the body. |
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At worst, "opening doors" can cause a catastrophic loss of balance. At
best, it will make you over-rotate the turn, leaving you unable to make
your next turn where you want.
Leaving your pole planted too long in the moguls can open the door to
a host of problems.
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