Short Turns

Recommended practice time: 10–15 min

Introduction

Short turns keep you in control on steeper or crowded sections. The sequence is pole plant → edge release → weight to new outside ski, while the upper body faces downhill.

Steps

  1. Set the corridor
    Imagine a shoulder-wide lane. Quiet torso, soft knees, eyes downhill, slight pressure on the outside ski.
  2. Pole plant & initiation
    A quick plant in front of your feet cues the new turn. Gently release edges on the old outside ski.
  3. Move to the new outside
    As skis flatten, flow to the new outside ski and build edge angle. Hips stay over the feet.
  4. Maintain rhythm
    Keep an even “ta-ta-ta” tempo. More edge = slower; less edge = faster. Avoid upper-body rotation.
Short turns: pole plant, gentle edge release, move to new outside ski, narrow corridor rhythm.
Pole plant sets rhythm; feathered edges make the transition smooth.

Typical Mistakes

  • Late pole plant → broken rhythm.
  • Over-rotating shoulders → skid tails instead of steering.
  • Weight stuck on the inside ski.
  • Braking with heels instead of using edges.

FAQ

Where should I practice?

Start on gentle to medium pitches with smooth snow, then progress to steeper, bumpier terrain.

How strong should the pole plant be?

Short and precise — more cue than support. If the pole flies back, it was too strong.

How do I keep the lane narrow?

Keep the torso quiet and transition by releasing edges rather than throwing the tails.

Instructor’s Tip

“Plant – release – move. If rhythm falls apart, stop, reset, and nail the next three turns perfectly.”

Conclusion

Combine timely pole plants with gentle edge work and you’ll get stable, efficient short turns — the gateway to steeps and traffic.