Automatic turns

 Goal: "Open" parallel turns
Level: Intermediate
Suggested terrain: Groomed, easy intermediate slope
Author: Kobus Reyneke
Summary: It works fine just with simple pressure transfers.

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.

Face across the hill in a traverse position, arms comfortably in front and knees slightly bent. Most of your weight (pressure) should be on the downhill ski. Make sure your upper body (from the hips up) face slightly down the hill.
  • Check up the hill for skiers, then start in a traverse.

While traversing, slowly rise at the knees and gradually transfer virtually all your weight to the uphill ski.

  • You'll gradually, as you transfer weight, start turning towards the flow line--don't resist the turn.

It will be a very long turn, but complete it until you come to a stop in the other direction.

Do this in both directions and then link these long, drawn out "automatic" turns.

  • For an easier weight transfer, lift the toes of the inside ski inside the boot.
  • Be sure to keep light contact between your shins and the front of the boots and keep the upper body facing slightly down the flow line--stay in the Sweet Spot.

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