Ski Steep Terrain

Shiffrin/Image by J. Makovec/Alamy

Overview

  • Tips for skiing steep terrain are reviewed.

  • Strategies are presented to overcome the natural instinct to lean back when approaching steep descents.

Coach’s Tips: Very Steep Terrain

  1. Use the technique demonstrated by the Ski Technique module to ski steep terrain.

  2. After planting your pole, keep your outside hand forward and let the tip of your ski pole lightly drag on the snow. This action prevents your body from moving backward and helps you return to an athletic stance, ready for the next turn.

  3. Shorten your inside leg and roll your inside knee towards the hill. The steeper the slope, the more you should lift your inside heel and thigh.

  4. Plant your outside pole down the hill, aligning it with your ski boots.

  5. Complete your turns to control your speed by ensuring your skis carve across the hill before starting your next turn.

Useful tips for skiing steep slopes are explained and demonstrated by this video.

Video by Avoriaz Alpine Ski School

Shiffrin Skiing the Steeps with Speed

Mikaela Shiffrin/ Image by J. Makovec/Alamy/ Graphics by ARM

When the terrain is too steep, icy and rough to ski carved turns, try using Stivot turns.

Overcoming Instinct: The Key to Carving on Steep Slopes

  • We know that pressure needs to be applied to the front of the ski for the ski to start carving.

  • However, as we approach a ridge where the slope steepens, our subconscious survival instincts will cause our body to lean backwards, putting pressure on our heels and the back of our skis.

  • This reaction is because the human species learned millennia ago that throwing oneself over the edge of a cliff is not conducive to the survival of the species.

‘Focus’ to Ski With Confidence

  • As you approach a steep pitch, tell yourself the word ‘Focus.’ This will help replace instinctual thoughts of anxiety and fear with the mindset and actions you know will enable you to ski in control.

  • Occupy your mind with the actions you need to perform to ski well. This includes flexing your ankles, moving forward, having full pressure against your outside ski and keeping your shoulders level.

Practise lifting the heel of your inside leg as demonstrated by this video.

Video by Yann Bouduban

Key Takeaways

  1. Mastering steep slopes in skiing requires overcoming natural instincts to lean back.

  2. Key strategies include mental focus, focusing on technique including the Athletic Stance, forward movement, stacking the outside leg, shortening the inside leg and using Stivot turns when snow conditions are challenging.

  3. Also focus on completing turns and maintain speed as you descend.

Suggested Learning Modules

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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.