Parallel Release; Steering Focus
WHAT
The skis should maintain a parallel relationship throughout the whole turn, releasing both skis and then turning both skis simultaneously, while rolling the ankles and knees down the hill.
WHY
Skiing parallel is more biomechanically natural and comfortable than skiing in a wedge. Parallel skiing is the goal of many skiers. Once mastered, parallel turns open up an increased variety of turn sizes and terrain for skiers.
HOW
Active movement of the legs to roll down the hill into the new turn will create a controlled simultaneous release of both skis. This can be followed by controlled steering of both skis at the same time through a round and progressive turn shape.
WHAT’S NEW
Skis are being released at the same time, then steering and edging into the new turn together.
Situational Understanding
- Increase the speed of travel, allowing the skis to remain parallel from the very beginning of the turn
- Use blue terrain
- If using wider skis, understand edging will become harder, and steering will become easier
Active Balance & Stance
- Continue to move with the skis along the direction of travel to stay centred as the legs steer inside the turn through the create phase
Outside Ski Balance
- Establish a positive weight shift to the new outside ski before steering and rolling the skis into the new turn
Edging
- Develop lateral movements of the legs down the hill simultaneously
- Exaggerate a roll of the inside knee to start the inclination of the legs inside the new turn
Steering
- Continue to steer both skis through the beginning of the turn
- Match the rotation of the body and the skis until the fall line, then the skis should begin to turn at a faster rate than the body