Ice comes in different forms: Everything from ice that you can hold an edge on and the stuff you can see yourself in. The best tactic for runs that are entirely reflective is to avoid them.

Not many skiers actually like icy conditions, but most of us have to ski it sooner or later. Your best defense is to learn how to cope with the slippery stuff--you may actually come to enjoy it.

Besides the exercises that follow, keep these quick tips in mind:

• The best tip for skiing ice?--Keep your skis well tuned.

Other tips worth remembering:

• When skiing a run and you suddenly hit a patch of ice, don't stiffen and try to suddenly edge harder. Stay loose and go with the skid.
• Keep looking ahead to be ready for any upcoming ice patches. Wait until you've glided over the spot before you start your turn, if at all possible.
• Try to keep your upper body facing down the hill. Reaching back into the hill will cause the tails of the skis to skid out. Keep the uphill hand up and hovering somewhere over the downhill ski tip.
• Make subtle movements. Combine a sensitive touch with an aggressive state of mind.
• Keep a slightly wider stance by spreading your feet further apart.
• Keep all your weight on the outside ski.
• Stay in the Sweet spot.