Ski Tips

Ski Tips

Fluidity - Funny Walk
Funny Walk
Goal: To illustrate the importance of applying instant edge pressure.
Body Position: Stand on the slope in a wedge and create an A-frame with your knees.

It's funny, but a lot of people think the snowplow position is only for beginning skiers. The truth is, the A-frame position - forming an A with your legs or your knees - is a real power position that gives you a lot of edge control.

We're going to exaggerate the A-frame position to practice a drill called Funny Walk. An experienced skier watching you perform the Funny Walk will immediately recognize how much skill it takes to perform this maneuver. It's something you'll use again and again in slalom skiing, mogul skiing, and in the steep and deep powder.

Begin this drill by standing in a snowplow facing downhill. As you push off, bring your knees together to form an A-frame. This will bring you up on the inside edges of your skis. Your skis are now pointing downhill in a snowplow, your knees are together, and your edges are cutting into the snow. Take short, quick steps, moving straight down the hill - don't make any turns. Your speed should help you keep a lively pace. Be sure you're only using your ski edges.

Now, release the pressure and you'll feel yourself ending the turn. Let yourself traverse for a short distance, then repeat the pressure using the other leg.

Don't use your feet or ski tips to initiate the turn. Let the pressure of knee angulation do it for you.

Keep those knees together! Lift your feet one at a time, to touch and release, touch and release. This drill helps you develop edge control by shifting from ski to ski while maintaining contact with the snow. If you feel some similarities with ice skating, you're probably right. Get the edge and hold it!

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