How to Make Parallel Turns on Skis

Parallel turns are an extension of Wedge-Christie turns. As you ski more difficult terrain and increase your speed, the parallel turn becomes a necessary tool.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Downhill Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Ski Boots
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Poles

1. 

   Swing your downhill pole slightly in front of you as you begin to initiate your turn.

2. Keep your knees bent throughout the turn.

3. Hold your hands in front of your body so you can see them in the periphery of your vision.

4. Look downhill through the entire turn.

5. Begin transferring pressure to the outside ski for the turn.

6. 

   Guide your inside ski through the turn by continuing to use its edge.

7. 

   Keep both skis parallel through the arc of the turn. The outside ski helps control the size of the turn. The inside ski maintains the direction of the turn.

8. Finish the turn and prepare for the next one.

Tips & Warnings

• The speed with which you enter the turn will be substantially faster then when using the Wedge-Christie.
• Linking turns requires you to quickly make the outside ski the inside ski and vice-versa.
• Use your poles to help set up each turn and to maintain your balance.
• Keep your upper body aimed down the hill as you make each turn.
• Skiing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or even death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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[canudoit2557]

on 4/13/2008 I have been skiing for over 25 years and found myself doing very tight, but exceedingly fast and out-of-control turns. I didn't realize that I was putting my weight on the inside ski and losing control of the radius of my turns.

Now that parabaltics are here and I am very short for a girl (5/2) I am wondering what meter ski I should choose? Thank you for the excellent advice.