How to Telemark Jump Turn

Jump turns are used to control speed while telemarking on steep slopes. If you like the feeling of floating through the air while turning, you'll appreciate the telemark jump turn.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Ski Clothing
• Telemark Ski Equipment

1. Locate a slope with a steep pitch. Pick a slope you have skied before.
2. Start skiing down the hill, and make one turn to initiate the jump turn. Now your skis will be facing horizontally across the slope.
3. Plant a pole down the hill.
4. Compress your body and prepare to launch.
5. Jump up and forward with both feet.
6. Rotate your body 180 degrees in the air, so that when you land you'll be facing in the opposite direction.
7. Change your lead foot in the air by sliding your front foot back. When you land, your downhill foot will be your lead/front foot.
8. Compress your body upon landing to absorb the jump.
9. Start the next jump turn in the other direction.

Tips & Warnings

• A 180 degree jump turn on a steep or moderately steep slope is easier than it sounds, so give it a try.
• Your speed is controlled by how much you glide between turns. For example, you can decrease your speed by making jump turns in quick succession and hopping down the mountain.
• Telemark skiing is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.