Learning to Turn with Bi-Ski
What, Who, How
What
Learning to turn in a bi-ski with hand-held outriggers, fixed outriggers, a hand bar, or a combination of any of the above.
Who
Anyone who can do a balanced straight run in a bi-ski, with or without instructor assistance.
How
Practice turning movements in a stationary position first, then while being pushed on the flats, and then on a slope.
In order to turn a bi-ski, the three steps are:
PUSH – off the outside outrigger so that the bi-ski starts to tip inside the turn.
BLOCK – any further upper body movement to the inside by resisting with the inside outrigger.
DROP – the hip to the inside while continuing to use the outside outrigger to support the upper body.
At the completion of the turn it is important to return to centre before initiating the next turn. If the student is not able to use hand-held outriggers have them lean their upper body from one side to the other. They can use the handlebar to help with this. If they can use an outrigger on one side then combine the movements into:
LEAN/BLOCK/DROP … PUSH/DROP.
In this scenario set up the fixed outrigger(s) to stop the bi-ski falling over.
Hot Tip
Movements & Performance
Balance/Stance
Basic stance is similar to the monoski with the pelvis tilted forward and square to the ski, knees slightly flexed with room to move the chest forward. When this stance is not possible, position the student in the seat as close as possible to centre.
Rotational
Rotational movement is not necessary when learning to turn, but can be used to assist the edging movement in more advanced turns.
Edging
Encourage angulation to aid the student’s lateral balance. Encourage a progressive edging through the turn. As the student’s skill level increases the edge can be engaged more aggressively but ensure the student maintains lateral balance. If the student can move their legs, use this to aid the push/block/drop. If possible encourage the student to push their inside hip down into the seat.
Pressure Control Movements
Encourage the student to move forward with each turn initiation if possible and then to re-center through the turn.
Terrain, Equipment & Safety
Terrain
Use a learners area with as much width as possible to allow space for the activities.
Equipment
Outrigger shafts passing approx mid-thigh and set up at a length that allows the student enough flex in the elbow to be able to push off them. A high brake provides more support.
If a student has uncontrolled movement in their arms or upper body, strap to allow for this movement to happen, but to prevent injury. In this case extra padding should be considered on the frame to prevent injury.
Safety Issues
- Helmets are essential.
- Ensure there are no pressure points from insufficient padding, objects in the seat or in pockets, twisted straps and buckles, or over tightening of the straps.
- Monitor temperature for overheating, hypothermia and for frostbite.
- Use a blanket in cold conditions to keep the skier warm.
- Ensure there is no pinching of any catheter tubes if they are present.
- Follow safe chairlift loading/unloading practice.
- Bucket the bi-ski in crowded areas and use a volunteer for blocking.
Corrective Teaching
Student struggles to control their speed: