How to Ski Double Black Diamonds

Black diamond and double black diamond slopes at ski areas draw the enthusiast skier, the expert skier, and even the eye of the beginner and intermediate skier, who want to be able to smoothly flow down those slopes looking like it took little effort.

Things You'll Need

• Boots Bindings Skis Poles

Instructions

1. Step into your bindings and get ready to ski your first double black slope by practicing on an intermediate slope. Ski the fall line of the slope, concentrating on skiing down smoothly instead of traversing back and forth.

2. Concentrate on keeping your shoulders square to the fall line. Watch expert skiers--you will see that their upper body almost never moves, but rather is like a straight line pointed down that their legs move under.

3. Punch with your ski poles. This practice drill will get you ready for steeper slopes. Punching your hands forward will help you concentrate on keeping your upper body still and facing the fall line.

4. Ski around your poles. Use the rhythm of the pole plant to help your legs get into a rhythm for turning quickly. Turn your uphill ski around each pole plant (right for right pole, left for left).

5. Initiate the turn by putting weight on the downhill ski.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time working up to skiing a steep slope. If you feel that the slope is above your ability, either ski down it gently by doing long traverses side to side or, alternately, walk downhill. It may seem silly, but it is better than getting hurt. Train to get in shape. Skiing is an intensive sport, so make sure that you do off-season workouts to keep your legs strong.

• Keep your weight slightly forward. Getting your weight backwards can lead to out of control falls and torn anterior cruciate ligaments.