Introduction
Advanced skiing requires changing radius for terrain and speed. Keep rhythm continuous, set edge angles precisely and dose pressure progressively to avoid skidding.
Four Key Steps
- Short turns – quick flex/extendHigher edge angles with a fast cadence; early outside-ski pressure before apex; a subtle pole touch syncs the transition.
- Medium turns – steady tempoProgressively load the outside ski through the foot; quiet upper body, soft knees; keep COM over the platform.
- Long turns – more angulationLower cadence, greater angulation and stacked posture; manage speed by line and edge angle, not by hip rotation.
- Mixing drill – rhythmic setSki 3 short + 2 medium + 1 long, repeat. Keep the same edge quality and soft release through transitions.
Typical Mistakes
- Forcing smaller radius with hip rotation instead of adding edge angle.
- Uneven timing—“pause” in transition breaks rhythm and grip.
- Back seat in long arcs → weak shovel and line control.
- Hard pressure release → rebound and shattered flow.
Advanced FAQs
How to keep grip in a series of short turns?
Early edging from the ankles with continuous pressure dosing; steer from the feet, not the hips.
Switch to long arcs without speeding up?
Lengthen the line and slightly lower edge angle before apex; upper body stays quiet.
When to plant the pole?
In short turns—subtle touch before transition; in long arcs—visual cue often suffices.
Instructor’s Tip
“Quality first, then radius. Rhythm is the bridge between different arcs.”
Conclusion
With rhythm, precise edging and pressure control you can change radius safely and efficiently. Practice on moderate pitches before stepping up.