Today we started off with some side stepping up and down a steep embankment – to learn how to navigate any slope that is too steep or intimidating to descend otherwise. There’s always a way to use the skis to get down safely. This stage of “beginner” development still needs a lot of skating and stepping to build coordination in the context of ski equipment and terrain.
Skiing down to la Plagne Centre the focus was in using the skating push with the outside leg – while simultaneously pulling inwards with the adductor muscles of that leg (either within a skating or snowplough stance).
The main objective of the day was familiarisation with the chairlift and longer ski runs with plenty of opportunity to turn and practise. Towards the end of the session We started to introduce the “pivot”. Both Summer and Harry were assisted though a single pivot with me providing support. The idea was to feel the pivoting effect of the ski.
Pivot (Skis sliding Sideways)
Pivoting is derived from the skis sliding (swinging) sideways and can be developed from side slipping. With a “pure pivot” as an exercise there is no forward travelling of the ski across the hill. Support for the centre of mass is now provided by support from a downhill pole plant. This is the real reason why we have ski poles! There is a full dedicated explanation of pivoting at the following link: “PIVOT“