Crud skill building: Balancing in crud

Goal: Have a cruddy day
Level: Intermediate   Expert + Crud
Suggested terrain: In the crud - all slopes
Author: Suzy Chase-Motzkin
Summary: Often while skiing crud, it feels as though you are being pulled in many different directions. To get a feel for what is in store, try this simple balance exercise in the cruddy stuff.

Photos and Videos coming soon!

 

Expert crud skier

 

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

When skiing crud conditions, you must constantly adjust your balance. There is no single position that will keep you in balance. Due to the additional forces caused by the heavy snow, you have to rely on strength and inner balance. Begin by straight running in the crud on moderate terrain.

Stand with your weight on the middle of the arches of the feet.

  • Lift your toes inside your boots and feel your shins lightly touching the tongues--try to maintain your balance in this dynamic position at all times.

While straight running, lift one foot, then the other as if pedaling a bicycle. Be sure to maintain control of the ski that is lifted.

Once you have a feel for the stance and the strength needed to maintain balance and control, make some turns.

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