Stompin' on the edge

 Goal: Dynamic long radius turns
Level: Expert
Suggested terrain: Groomed intermediate terrain
Author: Suzy Chase-Motzkin
Summary: This exercise will help you get on the outside ski early so that your carving begins before the flow line. It is also helpful in getting a powerful entry into each turn.

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.

Begin in a traverse with the upper body facing slightly down the hill. Flex your legs as if you have just absorbed a turn.

Lift the uphill ski and stomp down on its inside edge, (just under the arch of the foot,) and extend slowly away from the ski.

The further you extend away from the ski, the more the ski will turn toward the flow line. It will have a higher edge angle and the ski will decamber, helping to create an arc on the snow in the shape of the bent ski.

Continue to steer the skis around to shape the turn and flex to absorb the pressure.

When you cross the flow line, stomp onto the inside edge of the new uphill/outside ski and extend away from the ski down the flow line.

Do this a number of times with an active stomp and a powerful extension.

Tips:

  • Keep the upper body directed down the flow line just before and during the stomp and extension.
  • When you stomp, feel the arch of your foot.
  • As you extend, feel the pressure under the arch roll toward the inside of the foot. Keep the pressure on the inside of the arch as you finish shaping the turn.

After you have mastered this maneuver in an exaggerated way, gradually tone it down to a point where you don't stomp. Your goal is to start edging the ski smoothly before it enters the flow line.

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