Better Skiing: Hand Position

Welcome to this edition of Better Skiing, I’m Bruce Ruff.
It doesn’t matter what type of skier you are or what type of terrain you are skiing; If you are not skiing well, check your hands. Your hands and how you use your poles determine whether or not you are skiing with a quiet upper body. You should be skiing from the hips down.

Your hands should be out in front of your body, like you’re holding on to a large steering wheel, with your hands at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock. Your poles should be held vertical throughout your pole touch. This hand and pole position keeps you square and in position to turn quickly. Most people get into trouble when they let their hands get into their hip pockets. This causes your weight to shift back and an immediate loss of balance. If you leave your pole on the snow too long and ski past it your hand and shoulder will torque your upper body out of position. Do not put too much weight on your pole. Just touch it and pick it back up quickly, keeping both hands out in front of your body.