Edge-to-Edge Transitions

Recommended practice time: 20–30 min

Introduction

Linking turns cleanly depends on soft pressure release, quick recentering and early edging with a quiet upper body.

Four Key Steps

  1. Soft release
    Towards the end of the arc, bleed pressure smoothly and reduce edge angle—avoid rebound.
  2. Recenter over the feet
    Move COM to neutral from the ankles; feet active, torso quiet; prepare a stable platform.
  3. Early new edge
    Initiate early tipping from ankles/knees and add angulation as forces rise.
  4. Pole timing / rhythm
    A subtle pole touch pre-transition for short turns; visual rhythm cue for longer arcs.
Soft release, quick recenter and early edging to link clean turns without rebound.
Release → recenter → early edge: smooth linking from turn to turn.

Typical Mistakes

  • Hard release causing pop and loss of snow contact.
  • Late recentering—entering next turn in the back seat.
  • Forcing rotation from the hips instead of ankle/knee tipping.
  • Overactive pole plants disrupting rhythm.

Advanced FAQs

How to speed up transitions and keep grip?

Shorten the neutral phase with earlier tipping and continuous pressure management; avoid hip twists.

Cross-under vs. cross-over?

Steeper terrain favors cross-under (legs work under a steady torso). Gentler slopes: softer cross-over with small COM travel.

Where to look?

Toward the next arc down the line—helps timing and a quiet upper body.

Instructor’s Tip

“Think of transition as a fade: pressure down, edge up. The smoother the fade, the cleaner the link.”

Conclusion

With controlled release, precise recentering and early edging, you’ll connect stable arcs at any speed. Practice on moderate pitches before ramping up.