• Put this to use if you have trouble starting a new turn on a steep slope or if you get tired sideslipping in one direction and want to switch sides.

With your upper body twisted to face down the flow line and your weight firmly on the downhill ski, plant the triggering ski pole well down the flow line beneath your feet.

Without putting weight on it, carefully step the uphill ski so its tip faces down the hill. Your skis will form a wedge shape.

Simultaneously release your pole, shift your entire weight onto the stepped ski and match the inside ski.

Immediately steer the skis across the hill.

At the end of the turn, resume the ready-for-anything stance.

• We "cheat" a bit by stepping the new outside ski into a wedged position--this completes the turn entry so you only have to focus on the conclusion of the turn.

You can link these together with a traverse in both directions for a safe descent down a steep section.

• Be sure to shape the turn by directing the skis well across the flow line. This will help you to maintain a comfortable speed.