Learning to ski is an exciting yet challenging journey. Among the fundamental skills every beginner must master, turning is critical. Turning allows you to control your speed, change direction, and navigate safely down the slope. Without turning ability, a skier risks losing control, leading to accidents or injury. This article provides a comprehensive guide for novice skiers who want to learn how to turn effectively and safely. By understanding the mechanics of turning, adopting the correct posture, and practicing with the right mindset, beginners can quickly develop this essential skill. With a focus on simplicity and clarity, this guide covers the basics, from snowplow turns to parallel turns, and provides insights for steady improvement. Whether you’re on your first ski trip or seeking to refine your technique, this step-by-step guide is tailored to help you turn with confidence. For more insights on skiing fundamentals, be sure to visit our full Skiing Guide.
Understanding the Importance of Turning
Turning in skiing is more than just changing direction. It’s a tool to manage momentum, navigate terrain, and maintain safety. Without turning, a skier will simply accelerate downhill, increasing the risk of injury. Turning slows you down, improves control, and makes skiing much more enjoyable. It also sets the foundation for advanced skills like carving and mogul skiing.
Basic Skiing Position for Beginners
Before diving into turning, ensure your stance is correct. A proper skiing stance gives you balance, control, and readiness to shift weight effectively:
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Knees slightly bent
- Hands forward and slightly apart
- Weight centered over the skis
This posture is your base position for all beginner turns.
Starting with the Snowplow Turn
The snowplow or wedge turn is the first technique taught in ski schools. It’s safe, slow, and intuitive. To perform a snowplow turn:
- Start in a wedge stance: tips together, tails apart
- Shift weight to the opposite ski of the turn direction
- Apply gentle pressure to the inside edge of the outside ski
- Look in the direction you want to go
For example, to turn left, shift weight to the right ski. The skis naturally guide the turn. Practice linking turns to control your descent.
Controlling Speed through Turns
Turning is an effective method to control speed. Tight turns slow you down, while wide turns let you carry more momentum. Adjust turn radius by varying your ski edge angle and weight distribution. Avoid pointing straight downhill unless you’re confident in stopping or making quick turns.
Common Mistakes in Snowplow Turning
- Leaning too far back – keeps skis from turning effectively
- Overturning the body instead of shifting weight
- Crossing skis – leads to imbalance and falls
- Not committing to the turn – leads to sliding or drifting
These mistakes are normal. Regular practice and feedback from instructors help correct them.
Progressing to Parallel Turns
Once snowplow turns feel natural, the next step is the parallel turn. This technique keeps skis aligned and improves efficiency. Parallel turns require more skill but offer better speed and edge control.
Steps for a Basic Parallel Turn:
- Begin with a shallow wedge
- Initiate the turn by shifting weight to the outside ski
- Gradually bring the skis parallel during the turn
- Use ski edges to carve through the turn
Timing and weight transfer are critical. It’s normal to return to snowplow when terrain gets steep or conditions change.
Edge Control in Turns
Edges control your grip on the snow. When turning, use the inside edge of the outside ski for traction. More edge angle gives sharper turns. Be aware of your edge pressure and terrain underfoot. Icy conditions require more precise edge control.
Turning on Different Terrain
Green slopes: Ideal for practicing snowplow and early parallel turns.
Blue slopes: Best for linking parallel turns and improving technique.
Groomed runs: Easier for learning edge control and consistent movement.
Stay on slopes appropriate for your skill level. Avoid crowded or steep terrain until you’re confident with turns.
When and Where to Practice Turning
Consistent practice builds muscle memory. Choose wide, gentle slopes during less busy times. Take lessons when possible. Skiing with peers or instructors provides encouragement and helps correct mistakes in real-time. Film yourself or ask for video feedback to observe your progress.
Using Poles in Turns
Beginner skiers may or may not use poles. As you advance, poles become useful for rhythm and timing. Use pole plants to initiate turns, especially on steeper terrain. For beginners, focus on mastering turns without relying on poles at first.
Building Confidence While Learning Turns
Take your time. Progress at your own pace.
Don’t fear falling – it’s part of learning.
Visualize the turn before starting.
Celebrate small improvements.
Confidence builds with experience. The more you ski, the more natural turning becomes.
Turning Techniques for Beginner Skiers
Here’s a summary of basic techniques every new skier should master:
Snowplow Turn: Foundation of control and direction.
Wedge Christie: A transitional technique from snowplow to parallel.
Parallel Turn: Efficient, fluid movement for green and blue slopes.
Each builds upon the previous. Master one before progressing to the next.
Drills to Improve Your Turning
Practice drills reinforce turning skills:
Turn and stop: Practice stopping at the end of each turn.
One-ski turns: Lift the inside ski slightly to focus on outside ski control.
Edge rolls: Roll your knees side to side while gliding to feel edge engagement.
Linked turns: Practice continuous turns across the slope.
Do these drills regularly to improve balance, control, and confidence.
Final Tips for Turning Success
- Look ahead, not at your skis
- Keep movements fluid, not stiff
- Stay relaxed – tension hinders performance
- Trust your edges and body position
These habits will help you progress faster and enjoy skiing more.
When to Take a Lesson
While self-practice is important, ski instruction accelerates learning. Instructors spot bad habits early, provide personalized tips, and offer motivation. Book lessons at the start of your trip for immediate impact. Group lessons are affordable and social; private lessons provide focused guidance.
Resources for Further Learning
Turning is a fundamental skill, but skiing has much more to explore. Once you feel confident, consider carving, short turns, or skiing moguls. Read articles, watch tutorials, and talk with experienced skiers. Explore the full Skiing Guide to deepen your understanding.
Conclusion
Learning how to turn in skiing is the gateway to confidence and enjoyment on the mountain. With a proper stance, consistent practice, and gradual progress, every beginner can master turning. Whether you’re easing into snowplow turns or pushing into parallel turns, each step forward increases your control and safety. Keep practicing, stay patient, and remember—turning isn’t just a skill, it’s the art of skiing itself.