Shape It Up: Intermediate
Features
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CHALLENGE
Inability to shape turns for speed control
The fundamental rule of skiing is this: Curve uphill to slow down and curve downhill to speed up. A common problem that plagues intermediate skiers is the inability to control speed by varying turn shape. Even though you feel as if you’re making full turns, you may be giving up on your turns too soon after passing through the fall line. You may feel comfortable making those abbreviated turns on easy terrain, but as the slope gets steeper, your speed will build-unless you change your tactics. Moreover, if you ski into flat terrain with the same turn shape you used in the steeps, you’ll get passed on the run-out.
SOLUTION
Lengthen-and finish-your turns
Check out the slideshow below for the moves.