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Beginner
Here are his latest FAQ's from Beginners like you!
Table of Contents
How do I Stop without having to use the "Snow Plow" technique? My knees are killing me!?"Snow Plow" is a dated term for a "wedge," which describes the outward angling of the ski tails to form a V pointed in the direction you are skiing. It's a good beginner technique for slowing down and stopping before you hit the parking lot! The "Christie" or "Stem Christie" is also a dated term for a "stem turn" that begins with lifting your uphill ski and angling its tail outward. Then you continue on a straight traverse with all your weight on the downhill ski, as your uphill stemmed ski glides clear of the snow. You prepare to turn by bringing the stemmed ski back so its tip is even with the unstemmed ski. Back to Top
I've fallen and I can't get up! How do I get up from a fall without looking foolish?First, if you can control the way you fall at all, try to fall backward and to one side, using one hip as a shock absorber (easy for me to say!). Keep your knees close together. Swing your skis horizontally across the slope below your body and draw your feet up close to your hips. Push down on your poles, pushing yourself up onto your feet. Back to Top
How do I get off the chairlift? I'm fine on the slopes but the lift is a problem!The best way to avoid a fall while unloading is to observe all signs posted by the resort in preparation, such as "keep ski tips up," "raise bar." Just before unloading, hold your poles high to prepare to unload. Look ahead, observing any obstructions or icy conditions on the landing pad, and always plan your direction ahead of time - left, right, or straight ahead. If possible, ask your companions where they intend to go, so each person stays out of the way of the others. If you are unsure of yourself, plan to go in the same direction as your companions and adjust your direction after you ski off. Most resorts have ample space to rest upon unloading, to allow you to change your direction after you unload. But specific conditions and terrain will dictate this possibility. Back to Top
Why do I keep catching my inside ski edge?You are probably "over edging" your skis. Try flattening them out by rolling your ankles outward. Skiing takes some coordination, eh? Back to Top
How can I keep my skis from crossing?You are probably sitting too far back on your skis, or over edging, or incorrectly shifting your weight or your lead ski could be too far forward. Here's where a ski instructor could really help you by observing your stance and diagnosing the problem for you. But in general, try focusing on these basics: Keep your weight forward, press your knees forward, keep your weight on the outside ski and flatten your skis to avoid over edging. Back to Top
Is there an easy way to put my boots on? It's exhausting!To ease boots on, try not to take any short cuts. Unbuckle all buckles and snaps and be sure to pull apart the boot's shell as far as it will go. Loosen any tension adjustments if necessary. Buckling up is easier if you first snap the buckle second from the bottom, then the bottom, then the others (for front buckle boots). On rear-entry boots, tighten any adjustment near the midfoot first and the top ankle buckle last. Don't tighten further until you wear them for a few minutes - then tighten them to create the snug fit, without pain! And for goodness sakes, buckle your own boots! The exercise and stretching will benefit you on the slopes. Back to Top
By Bert, The Expert. Copyright © 2003 Julianne Weinmann. All
rights reserved.
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