Basic Wedge-to-Parallel
WHAT
A basic wedge-to-parallel turn has elements of both wedge and parallel turns. The turn is started in a wedge and towards the end of the turn the skis become parallel.
WHY
The basic wedge-to-parallel turn is the first step between wedge turns and parallel turns. Skiers have the opportunity to ski slightly faster and gain more control on steeper slopes due to the parallel relationship of the skis in the bottom half of the turn.
HOW
Increase speed, this can be achieved by decreasing the size of the wedge. Then the skier must establish grip and balance on the outside ski and steer the inside ski to parallel.
WHAT’S NEW
Skis are becoming parallel at the end of the turn.
Check out the video.
Situational Understanding
- Increase the speed of travel allowing for outside ski balance to be achieved before the fall line
- Use green terrain, and progress onto blue terrain as the skill level of the skier increases
- Develop awareness of why it is more comfortable to ski in parallel
- Introduce a smaller wedge size to help increase speed
Active Balance & Stance
- Move the centre of gravity (COG) inside the turn while maintaining a strong centred stance
- Time extension with the creation of the wedge
- Time flexion as a parallel with the skis is formed
Outside Ski Balance
- Higher speeds and greater edge angle will create more force acting on the skier, allowing the skier to balance on the outside ski earlier in the turn
- Feel for the arch of the outside foot once the wedge is created
- Maintain angulation as the legs incline inside the turn, this helps the inside leg steer to parallel
Edging
- The edge angle of the inside ski will decrease as the COG moves inside the turn. Then, as the inside ski steers to parallel, it must also match edge angle with the outside ski
- Ski design will be aiding the skier to follow a smooth round turn shape
- Establish good grip on the outside ski before moving to parallel
Steering
- Steer the outside ski at a faster rate through the beginning of the turn to create a wedge at the start of the turn
- Steer the inside ski at a faster rate during the control phase of the turn to match the skis to parallel
