Forward Movement

H. Kristoffersen/ Image by M. Pozza/Alamy

Overview

  • Movement 3: Move forward by using your back and abdominal muscles to move your core and chest over your feet and down the hill. Feel pressure build against your outside ski.

  • This description is the third of eight modules included in the Ski Technique module, describing how elite skiers and racers carve turns.

Moving Forward

  • The forward movement described above begins when you flex your outside ankle to start a new turn. This movement will increase the edge angle and pressure on the outside ski.

  • Watch Henrik Kristoffersen move forward rather than upward in the following video.

Video by Filip Chwistek

  • Your shoulders and head should normally be no more than just ahead of the binding of the outside ski at the apex of the turn.

  • Too much forward action with the arms will cause the pelvis to move backwards putting pressure on the tail of the skis.

  • Henrik Kristoffersen positions his shoulders just ahead of the binding of his outside ski.

H. Kristoffersen/ Image by M. Pozza/Alamy/Graphics by ARM

Watch about a MINUTE of this VIDEO for an analysis of the forward movement.

Video by Gilmore Gardens N.H.

  • The Forward Movement progresses until the body returns to the Athletic Stance ready to start the next turn.

  • The physical movements for moving forward are shown in this image.

Image by Ron LeMaster/Graphics by ARM

The “Get Over It” drill helps develop forward movement.

Mikaela Shiffrin provides her commentary of this drill in this video.

Video by Burke Mountain Acadmey

Forward Movement for Slalom, Giant Slalom and Speed Disciplines

  1. Slalom: In short radius turns the goal is to move your core down the fall line.

  2. Giant Slalom: Your body should move towards the fall line and continue moving forward until the body faces towards the direction of the next turn.

  3. Speed: The upper body tilts forward at the waist when using a high or low tuck stance.

Key Takeaways

  1. Use your core muscles to move your chest and core forward over your feet and down the hill.

  2. Forward movement increases the edge angle and pressure on the outside ski.

  3. Avoid excessive forward arm movements, as they can push your pelvis backward. Aim to have your shoulders and head slightly ahead of the outside ski binding at the apex of the turn.

Suggested Learning Modules

Go to Ski Technique 4. Roll the Inside Leg

To gain a deeper understanding of the muscle groups comprising the human core, go to the Core module.

Return to Ski Technique or Reduce Risk of Injury

Important Message: Skiing and ski racing involve inherent risks. It’s essential to ski responsibly and stay within your skill level and personal comfort limits.