Skiing Techniques

Techniques in modern skiing have evolved over time, but there are still three basic techniques that are important to beginners and experts alike. They are useful for alpine and cross country skiing. Successful skiing requires a balanced stance, proper turning, and hockey stopping techniques.

These three techniques are valid individually, but also work together to make a good skier. The first principle of balance and staying in a balanced stance enables one to turn and stop properly. Ski instructors teaching a first time skier and Olympic ski coaches training elite skiing athletes focus on balance, turning, and stopping to develop a better skier. Unlike skating on solid ground, skiing is completely different and it takes time to master the technique. It is all about finding the stance when a new driver gets on a new pair of ski and pushes downhill from a mountain for the first time.

Proper turning when skiing

Excellence in turning quickly is essential to downhill skiing, especially for alpine skiing involving slaloms. The steps for a turn must be executed in precise sequence. Bend from the ankles and drop into a slightly crouched position. One has to put the weight on the uphill edge of a downhill ski. Plant the downhill pole. Spring gently forward and up, easing ones weight off the skis. The leverag...

Hockey stop when skiing

Most people are familiar with how an ice hockey player makes a quick turn, sliding sideways to stop his skates. The same concept is applied to a hockey stop in skiing. A parallel turn is made to slide sideways until momentum is stopped. The hockey stop can be performed only at a suitable speed. If the skier is traveling downhill too fast, he or she must do a turn to create resistance and slow do...

Balanced stance when skiing

A balanced stance sounds easy to achieve, but can be challenging to keep consistent throughout a run. Arms should be a little bent at the elbows, in front and roughly 20-24 inches apart. Feet should remain 10 to 12 inches apart, with knees slightly bent. One feels the pressure, if positioned properly, on the tongues of ones boots. Weight is evenly distributed between the two feet. The ankles res...

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Skiing Techniques

Proper turning when skiing

Hockey stop when skiing

Balanced stance when skiing

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