Better Skiing: Steeps

Welcome to this edition of Better Skiing, I’m Bruce Ruff.
Have you ever had that uneasy feeling standing at the top of a run and realize that it is steeper than you thought? Here is how to conquer these steeps!

First, relax. Take a deep breath and loosen up your arms, shoulders and neck. Don’t let negative thoughts enter your head – you’re now in attack mode. The secret to skiing steeps is keeping your body perpendicular to the hill. Do not lean into the hill. Staying perpendicular helps you stay centered on your skis. Reach down to the valley floor with your hands as your vision is focused down the fall line. Finish your turns to control your speed. Be prepared to get your skis across the fall line while traveling down it. Relax. If you’re tense or nervous you’re going to be stiff legged when you need to be loose with bent knees. Your downhill leg must stay bent throughout the turn to keep you in position for your next turn.