How to Turn When Skiing

When you are first learning to ski, the most basic techniques you learn are how to get on and off a chairlift, how to stop and how to turn. Three steps can be taught easily in the very first lesson. Instructors recommend that as a new skier, you familiarize yourself with being on skis in an area where there is only a small upgrade.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski area
• Ski lessons
• Small incline hill to practice
• Ski pants and jacket
• Funds to pay an instructor
• Skis, boots and poles

Turn When Skiing

1. Start out slow on a small incline. You should be traveling across the ski trail in a horizontal manner. When you get to the side, prepare yourself for the wedge turn.

2. Bend your knees, brace yourself and begin to separate your legs using your heels to push away from one another. You will be turning your knees inward.

3. Keep the tips of your skis together. Your legs should be making an upside down letter "V." You will hold this "V" position until the entire turn is complete.

4. Turn to the left by placing pressure on your right leg and digging the heel of your ski away from your body. To turn the other direction, do the opposite. You will find that there is one direction that your body will find easier to maneuver.

5. Finish the turn by bringing the heels of your skis together. You may stand up a little straighter and continue across the ski trail again. You should always keep your knees slightly bent when skiing.

Tips & Warnings

• Instructors recommend three lessons in the beginner area before taking the lift and skiing on your own.
• Before you make turns on a ski trail, make sure there are no other skiers in your immediate vicinity.
• Watching other skiers make turns can greatly aid in your learning process.
• If you have bad joints or arthritis in your knees, you should avoid the wedge turn. You may be better suited for a half hockey stop.
• Skiing places a lot of pressure on your lower body and your knees and ankles. It is important to be sure that your body can handle the pressures before trying a new sport.

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