Skiing is one of the most exhilarating sports in the world. Whether you are racing down a mountain or gliding gently through a snowy forest, the thrill of skiing is unmatched. However, for beginners, learning the basic techniques can seem intimidating. One essential skill every skier must master is the parallel turn.
A parallel turn is the foundation for improving your skiing technique, allowing you to control your speed and direction more effectively. It helps you navigate more challenging terrain with ease and gives you greater confidence on the slopes.
In this article, we will explore how to parallel turn in skiing, step by step. We’ll also touch upon important related skills, compare parallel turning in skiing to snowboarding, and highlight some top skiing destinations where you can practice and refine your technique.
What is a Parallel Turn in Skiing?
Before diving into the “how-to” details, let’s first define what a parallel turn is. In skiing, a parallel turn occurs when both skis are placed next to each other, parallel to one another, as you navigate a curve. This contrasts with the snowplow or wedge turn, where the skis are angled in a V-shape.
Parallel turns offer more control and are essential for progressing to more advanced skiing techniques. Mastering the parallel turn allows you to ski faster, make smoother turns, and handle steeper slopes. It’s also the first step in learning carving, where you make sharper, more aggressive turns by using the edges of your skis.
Steps to Parallel Turn in Skiing
Now that we know what parallel turns are, let’s break down the steps to execute them correctly.
1. Start with the Basics: Stance and Positioning
Before you can execute a parallel turn, you must first ensure that your basic skiing posture is correct. Your body position is key to controlling your speed and balance on the slopes.
Feet Shoulder-width Apart: Stand with your skis about shoulder-width apart. This will give you the right balance and stability as you begin your turns.
Knees Slightly Bent: Keep your knees slightly bent, which will help absorb bumps and give you better control. This stance will also keep your center of gravity lower, improving your balance.
Keep Your Upper Body Relaxed: Relax your arms and torso. Your hands should be slightly in front of you, and your upper body should remain facing downhill. Don’t lean too far forward or backward.
As you start practicing parallel turns, make sure to keep your weight balanced evenly between your skis. The pressure should be applied to the inside edges of the skis when turning.
2. Initiating the Turn
To begin a parallel turn, you need to shift your weight and gradually tilt your body in the direction you want to go.
Look in the Direction of the Turn: Always keep your eyes focused in the direction you want to turn. This will help your body naturally follow the movement of your skis.
Use Your Core for Balance: As you start turning, engage your core muscles to guide your movement. A slight rotation of your upper body (through your shoulders) will help direct your skis in the desired direction.
Shift Your Weight to the Inside Edge: To initiate the turn, you need to apply pressure to the inside edge of the ski that is opposite the direction you’re turning. For example, if you’re turning to the right, apply pressure to the left inner edge of both skis. This will allow the skis to carve into the snow and create a smooth turn.
3. Make the Turn Smoothly
As you begin your parallel turn, the key is to make it smooth and controlled.
Maintain a Balanced Weight Distribution: As you move into the turn, ensure your weight remains evenly distributed on both skis. Avoid leaning too far inside or outside the turn.
Bend Your Knees More as You Turn: To increase control, try bending your knees a bit more as you make the turn. This will help absorb any bumps in the terrain and allow your skis to grip the snow better.
Edge Control: You want to ensure that your skis are firmly edged into the snow. When you apply pressure on the inside edge, your skis will naturally turn. The sharper the edge, the tighter the turn.
Keep the Skis Parallel: Throughout the turn, keep both skis parallel. The more parallel they are, the smoother and more controlled your turn will be. Don’t let your skis cross or widen apart during the turn.
4. Finish the Turn and Reset
As you complete your turn, gradually ease off the pressure on the inside edge of your skis and return to a neutral position.
This will allow you to straighten out your skis and prepare for the next turn.
Anticipate the Next Turn: As you exit one turn, begin to prepare for the next by shifting your weight and adjusting your body posture. Skiing is a continuous movement, and smooth transitions are essential for maintaining control and balance.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
The more you practice parallel turns, the more natural they will feel. Start on easy, wide slopes and gradually increase the difficulty as you become more comfortable with the movement. You can challenge yourself with steeper terrain and sharper turns as you progress.
How Parallel Turning Differs from Snowboarding
While skiing and snowboarding share some similarities, the techniques for turning are quite different. In snowboarding, the rider faces forward on a single board, while in skiing, you use two separate skis.
In snowboarding, the basic turning technique involves shifting your weight from one edge of the board to the other.
Beginners often start by practicing the “falling leaf” method, where they move slowly and in a zigzag pattern down the slope. Once comfortable, snowboarders learn to carve, similar to parallel skiing, but using the edge of their snowboard.
For skiers, mastering parallel turns is essential for controlling speed and carving turns on steeper slopes. Snowboarders, on the other hand, typically need to master the basics of edge control and shifting weight from the front to the back of the board.
Though the mechanics are different, both skiing and snowboarding require practice and patience to master. The key to success in both sports is understanding the proper body positioning, edge control, and balance.
Skiing Destinations to Practice Parallel Turns
If you’re eager to practice your parallel turning technique, there are several world-class skiing destinations that offer ideal terrain for beginners and intermediates. These ski resorts have gentle slopes perfect for learning, as well as more challenging runs for when you’re ready to advance.
1. Aspen, Colorado, USA
Aspen is a well-known skiing destination, offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. It’s a great place for beginners to practice parallel turns and build confidence. With its stunning views and world-class amenities, Aspen also offers plenty of après-ski options when you’re done for the day.
2. Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is another popular destination with a wide range of slopes. Known for its scenic beauty and vibrant skiing community, it’s perfect for those looking to refine their skills on parallel turns. Whistler also offers ski schools and instructors to help guide you through the learning process.
3. Zermatt, Switzerland
For those looking to ski in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is an excellent destination. It has slopes suitable for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers alike. The breathtaking views of the Matterhorn make Zermatt a top choice for those wanting to practice skiing while surrounded by iconic mountains.
Conclusion
Mastering the parallel turn is a crucial step in progressing your skiing skills. Whether you are just starting out or looking to improve your technique, the parallel turn provides greater control, smoother turns, and the confidence to tackle more challenging slopes. With proper body positioning, weight distribution, and consistent practice, you can improve your turning technique and unlock the full potential of your skiing experience.
If you are passionate about skiing, take the time to practice in various skiing destinations, and don’t forget to compare skiing with snowboarding. Both sports have their unique appeal, but mastering the basics of skiing, including the parallel turn, will set you on the path to greater success on the slopes.