1,000 Steps
Goal: Dynamic long radius turns
Level: Expert
Suggested terrain: Relatively flat, groomed terrain to start with. Increase the pitch as your skill level increases. (Speed really can build with this exercise.)
Author: Suzy Chase-Motzkin
Summary: These are turns that are made with a constant stepping action. It's a wonderful way to feel changing body angles.

Photos and Videos coming soon!

IMPORTANT! Understanding our approach and philosophy is important if you'd like to successfully use the drills in Ski Smarts
 ... read more.

Spend some time with this exercise and feel the muscle groups that you are using to maintain the delicate balance between comfort and challenge.

Start with your skis pointed down the flow line. As you begin to move, step the ski that's closest to the direction you want to go, opening the tips of the skis as you step.

Make tiny, quick steps with a marching action. Step off of the big toe, onto the little toe of the other foot.

Lead the action with your ankles and knees, rolling into the direction you are stepping. If you keep your upper body facing slightly down the hill, your hips will settle in just the right spot, without you having to think about it.

Extend the downhill/outside leg and step onto the uphill/inside ski.

Pay attention to making a clean edge engagement.

Tips:

  • Make the action with the legs only--let the upper body follow.
  • Keep your inside hand high and in your field of vision.

Print this out for future reference and remember to have fun!