Hoppers

 Goal: Versatility in parallel turning
Level: Intermediate
Suggested terrain: Groomed, intermediate slope
Author: Suzy Chase-Motzkin
Summary: Work on flexibility and controlling pressure--to add to the fun.

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.

Use caution with any hopping exercise: Avoid it if you have or suspect any physical problems. Ensure that your equipment are properly adjusted.

Glide with your skis about hip width apart, diagonally across the hill.

While gliding, gently bounce enough to hop both skis slightly off the snow.

Each time you hop, turn the tips of both skis slightly down the flow line.

Continue hopping and directing the tips around the arc of the turn.

Hop through a series of turns.

Make sure to:
  • Keep your upper body turned slightly down the flow line.
  • Flex all the joints in your legs to hop.
  • Move the tips of your skis slightly down the hill with each hop.
  • Land softly and flex your knees to absorb the landing.
  • Land with your weight spread across your entire foot.
  • Keep your hands forward.

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