Introduction
Snowplough turns are the first way to control direction on gentle and moderate slopes. They allow you to slow down, change direction and stop safely.
Explanation / Essence
How to perform snowplough turns:
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Maintain the snowplough
Keep skis in the V shape – tips closer, tails apart.
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Shift weight
To turn left – shift weight to the right ski and press its inner edge. To turn right – do the opposite.
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Rotate upper body
Turn your shoulders and look in the direction you want to go.
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Keep balance
Relaxed knees and forward balance ensure smooth transition from turn to straight glide.
Typical Mistakes
- Leaning too much – loss of balance.
- Looking at skis instead of ahead.
- Shifting weight too late – jerky turns.
Beginner Questions
Is the snowplough used for both turning and braking?
Yes. The snowplough allows you to control speed while also changing direction.
Where should I look while turning?
Always look in the direction of travel – where you want to go.
When can I progress to parallel turns?
When you can perform snowplough turns smoothly and confidently, without jerks, and while controlling speed with ease.
Instructor’s Tip
“On a gentle slope, practice linking multiple snowplough turns one after another. This develops rhythm and prepares you for parallel techniques.”
Conclusion
Snowplough turns are the first step towards full control on the slope. Once mastered, you can safely connect turns and truly enjoy skiing.