Disciplines in Alpine Skiing

Alpine Skiing is also the name of the sport that you generally see on television in Skiing competitions worldwide. Alpine Skiing is an Olympic Sport and basically consists of the following disciplines:

• Downhill
  The Downhill Race can at times almost resemble Speed Skiing with men reaching speeds of 130 km/h and women reaching around 100 km/h. The contestants try to get down as fast as possible, keeping the most aerodynamic position for as long as possible and minimizing air and surface resistance. Jumps are often used. There are no gates to Slalom around but many designed of runs place jumps or turns in certain places to make the run more technically challenging. This Alpine Skiing Discipline uses the longest runs with the biggest vertical difference. In the men's competition, descents are made of 800 to 1100 vertical meters. The women's competitions use 500 to 800 vertical meter descents.
  
• Super-G
  Is a combination of Downhill Racing and Giant Slalom. In the Super G, longer and highly technical turns are made around flexible gates. Likewise, it features a shorter course than Downhill and longer than the course used in Giant Slalom. The men's competition uses slopes with a vertical difference of 500 to 650 meters with at least 35 gates. The women's competition uses slopes with a vertical difference of 400 to 600 meters with at least 30 gates. This Alpine Skiing Discipline is a high speed thrill ride combining the speed of racing with the technical turns of the Slalom.
  
• Giant Slalom
  The Giant Slalom is generally similar to the Slalom event. It uses shorter runs but with more gates. The skier performs two runs on two different courses on the same slope. The men's competition uses slopes with a vertical difference of 300 to 450 meters and 56 to 70 gates. The women's competition uses slopes with a vertical difference of 300 to 400 meters and 46 to 58 gates. Due to the many gates, the Giant Slalom is slower than the other Alpine Disciplines but the action is still explosive as skiers have to make aggressive quick turns around the closely set gates.
• Slalom
  This Alpine Skiing Discipline is a fast-paced and highly technical discipline. This event has the shortest course as well as the quickest turns. Contestants have to make their way down the slope as fast as possible turning quickly from one side to the other side of flexible gates. The gates are closely set to each other forcing the skier to make quick edge changes.
  
• Combined
  This event features a Downhill and two Slalom runs. The combined courses are shorter compared to the regular versions.

There are various Disciplines in Alpine Skiing, and it pays to know the set of rules to follow and the tricks and techniques that contestants are required to do on each competition. This also goes for spectators. Watching the Alpine Disciplines will be more exciting if you know the finer points of the events.

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Disciplines in Cross-Country Skiing

There are numerous competitive events in Cross-country Skiing alone. The general Disciplines include Mass Start, Interval Start, Relay, Sprint Event and Sprint Event for Teams, and Pursuit Event. In this section, we will look at the different Cross-country Skiing Disciplines:

• Mass Start
  As the name suggests, all participants are lined up in rows and begin at the same time. Sensibly enough, the first participant who reaches the finish mark wins the event.
• Interval Start
  Unlike in the Mass Start event wherein the competitors start the race simultaneously, the participants start in 15-second or 30-second intervals in the Interval Start.
• Relay
  This event involves a Mass Start, and each team or group is composed of four participants. Each member of a team skis one portion of the race until he/she reaches and tags off to his/her teammate.
• Sprint Event
  The individual time trials with a 15-second Interval Start on the sprint course mark the start of the event. It involves elimination, quarter-final, semi-final, and final rounds. Sixteen participants who finish the race the fastest proceed to the elimination round. Then the two fastest racers in the quarter-finals move on to the semi-final round. In the final round, the four winners in the semi-final round compete in a single heat.
• Team Sprint Event
  Each team or group in the Team Sprint Event is composed of only two members. These two participants must pass the relay three times to each other as fast as they can. In 10 or more teams in the semi-final round, the top five advance to the finals.
• Pursuit Event
  This event also makes use of the Mass Start, and the competitors execute two techniques - the Classical Technique and the Free Technique. As mentioned before, the Classical Technique requires Skis with kick wax in order to allow the skier to make a diagonal style along parallel trails and to provide friction upon contact with the Snow. On the other hand, the Skating or Free Technique entails Skis with glide wax which allows the participant to make forward maneuvers using the edges of the Skis. When the competitors finish the first half of the race through the Classical Technique, they will change their Skiing equipment and use the Free Technique to complete the whole race.

Cross-country Skiing offers a wide range of competitions and events. Each of them has its own set of rules to follow and tactics that the contestants should be able to execute. In the event that you want to compete in these events, make sure that you can perform the tricks and techniques needed for an event.

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Techniques in Cross- Country Skiing

In Cross-country Skiing, there are at least three primary techniques or moves- Classical, Skating, and Telemark Technique. Each Technique is executed in a different manner. Learn how to execute these moves by following these guidelines:

• Classical Technique
  This is the conventional technique in Ski racing. This is based on the diagonal stride which was later termed as the workhorse of this Skiing Discipline. Participants carry out a diagonal stride wherein their Skis remain parallel to each other. To execute the Classical Technique, glide one of your Skis forward. Plant the Ski Pole in the Snow Ski Surface using your arm on the same side. After this, pull on the Ski Pole to pick up pace. Then pull out the Ski Pole and do these steps again on the other side of the body.
  
  Each Cross-country Skiing Technique calls for a specific kind of equipment. In the Classical Technique, Skis that are long, thin, lightweight, with a fish-scale underside or ski wax, are used. However, you need wider Skis when you are moving away from prepared pistes.
• Skating Technique
  This Cross-country Technique is similar to the technique in ice skating. In general, this move is about 10% faster than the Classical Technique if the skier maintains his momentum in kicking and gliding. To perform the Skating Technique, just push outward with the Ski in such a way that you drive the inner edge of the Ski against the Snow. Just bear in mind that you can do the Skating Technique only on surfaces with firm and smooth Snow. This is likewise appropriate on prepared pistes.
  
  You can surely enjoy the Skating Technique if you will use shorter Skis, longer Ski Poles, and Ski Boots which give you better support on the ankles.
• Telemark Technique
  This is actually one of the various Skiing Disciplines. But in this case, this technique is used to go downhill and executed in off-piste Cross-country Skiing.

Cross-country Skiing is a sport which focuses on groomed slopes, trackset, and trails in different challenging levels. In essence, it is important to learn the different Cross-country Techniques or moves so you can definitely enjoy what Cross-country Skiing can offer.

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Downhill Skiing -- The Mind-Body Connection
 
by: Jim Safianuk

Today, you'll be introduced to the three essentials of a proper mind set, namely, motivation, visualization, and focus. Get mentally tough in these areas and your confidence level will soar. In addition, you'll be able to jettison any anxieties you may have about downhill skiing.

The expert skier understands the virtues of building a strong body, but he or she also needs the right mind set for skiing. You need to be well-prepared for the mind games that are associated with skiing in the expert zones where the control of one's mind is often as important as the strength of one's body.

Yes, there is definitely a mind-body connection in downhill skiing! You won't need a treatise on the latest break through in the psychological aspects of fear to conquer steeps, trees, and moguls. The old adage, you have nothing to fear but fear itself, applies to expert skiing as well. The right mind set will serve to get you psyched up, keep your anxieties in check, and let you focus completely on the task at hand.

The Three Essentials of a Proper Mind Set

Motivation, visualization, and focus are three of the essential skills the expert skier needs to master the subconscious mind and become tougher mentally. Let's consider each one of these requirements in turn.

Motivation

Being motivated will put you in control of your thoughts. You need to tell yourself over and over that you're in charge, not the ski hill. This will help you to develop a positive attitude so you can reach your goals for the season.

Visualization

Visualization is another technique that you can use to prepare yourself for that tough mogul run or steep slope. You need to learn how to visualize or form a mental picture of the complete run before you start. In addition, learning to relax will serve to keep a lid on your anxieties. Ski racers and aerialists often use these methods just before the beginning of a race or competition.

Focus

Focusing allows you to break up the run into smaller tasks so you can zoom in on the next two or three turns. This eliminates the fear of the complete run, and also

serves to keep your head up and eyes looking ahead at the next obstacle in your path.

Summing Up

The lesson entitled The Right Mind Set in the Skills of the Expert Skier expands on the three essentials so you know how, when, and where to apply the techniques. Ski coaches, instructors and sports psychologists all agree that mental conditioning can go a long way toward making you the skier you always dreamed you could be.

If you've read the articles about stretching and exercising you're already aware that you have to train your body to be stronger to handle the rigors of downhill skiing. Now it’s time to train your mind how to keep your anxieties in check.

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Expert Skiing Demystified
 
by: Jim Safianuk

Let's clear up some of the terms associated with downhill skiing. When put in the proper perspective, expert skiing is very different than advanced skiing or extreme skiing. The definitions below are based solely on our observations over the years, and are not cast in stone.

Expert Skiing

Expert skiing means being adept at handling varied terrain and different snow conditions on marked trails. The terrain may include steeps, trees, and moguls, or a combination of the three onblack or double-black runs. Snow conditions might include hard pack, ice, crud, or powder, as well as groomed or un-groomed snow.

Expert skiing requires that you make quick adjustments to your speed, turn radius, and balance to maintain control at all times. The challenge for the expert skier is to ski all the terrain in the descent of the mountain.

The essence of expert skiing is to be able to comfortably handle a run with a 40-degree pitch containing dense trees or tight moguls on un-groomed snow when there is no way out on either side.

Advanced Skiing

The term advanced level skiing is usually reserved for the higher level steps or classes normally associated with ski school programs. Here, the terrain may consist of blue or black runs, widely-spaced glades, and smaller bumps on intermediate-level slopes.

In addition, snow conditions are normally hard pack and groomed. At this level you would be comfortable skiing mid-radius parallel turns on groomed hills.

Extreme Skiing

This term is the domain of the daredevil. These guys are the ones in the Warren Miller movies. They normally ski off-piste and in the back country, but can also be seen dropping off of steep cliffs in the back bowls at some mountains.

I have the utmost respect for extreme skiers. They are one part tough, one part skilled, and one part courageous with a sprinkling of nuts thrown in for good measure. Extreme skiing is usually out-of-bounds skiing and risky, to say the least.

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Disciplines in Freestyle Skiing

Freestyle has grown in popularity and in general acceptance as a Skiing Discipline. In 1979, the International Ski Federation (FIS) accepted Freestyle as a international Skiing Discipline, opening the ways for the first FIS-sanctioned World Cup Freestyle events. Since then, Freestyle Skiing Disciplines have been accepted as Olympic Winter Games sports. In this section, take a look at the different Freestyle Skiing Disciplines:

Main FreeStyle Disciplines

• Aerials

• Contestants use a take off ramp to get airborne. In the air, they use combinations of spins and turns to impress a jury with their skills. Each contestant has two jumps, where the jury gives points for the degree of difficulty and the execution of the jump.
  
• Moguls
  Contestants have to make their way down the Moguls while judges give points for speed, technical execution, and two compulsory upright jumps. Fifty percent of the points are given for the quality of the turns, 25% is given for speed, and 25% is given for the height and difficulty of the jumps.
  
• Dual Moguls
  This is similar to the Moguls event, but in the Dual Moguls, two contestants compete head to head on parallel Mogul courses.
  
• Halfpipe

• Contestants try to impress a jury by performing a series of jumps, tricks, and maneuvers in the halfpipe. Points are given for degree of difficulty and execution.
  
• Freestyle Ski Cross
  Four to six contestants race against each other on a specially built Freestyle Cross course that includes banked turns, jumps, waves and terrain, and other Freestyle Skiing elements.

Other Freestyle Disciplines

• Acro
  Acro can be described as ballet on skis. Contestants have one-and-a-half minute to perform their routine on music of their own choice. The contestants are in charge of choreographing their performance. Judges award points for artistic impression (50%) and technical merit (50%).
  
• Big Air
  This is similar to Aerials but Big Air makes use of a bigger ramp and higher jumps. The jumps are again judged on difficulty and style.

These are the main Freestyle Skiing Disciplines. Each Freestyle Skiing event offers a different kind of excitement and amazing experience for both the contestants and the spectators.

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Freestyle Ski Tricks

Freestyle Skiing is a combination of Skiing techniques and acrobatics. In this Skiing Discipline alone, there are a lot of Ski Tricks executed by Freestyle enthusiasts. These Ski Tricks are classified into: Upright Aerials, Inverted Aerials, Halfpipe, Rail, and Freeride. Read the following section to learn the different Ski Tricks in Freestyle Skiing:

Upright Aerials

Ski Tricks under Upright Aerials include 180, 360 Tail Grab, 540 Tail Grab, Cork Screw 720, Switched Corked 720, and Half Cab Mute Grab.

• 180
  Use Skis with twin tips for this Ski Trick. In doing the 180, try making small jumps. Imagine jumping on a trampoline. In starting your spin, make use of your hips and head. In the event that you are not beginning your spin after becoming airborne and if you are doing big, you can wait before rotating. Stay focused on your landing while going backwards and throughout the trick so that you will not rotate too much. Touch down with the Tips of Skis followed by the Tails when landing.
  
• 360 Tail Grab
  Make a tucked Iron Cross the moment you set your spin. After crossing up, find the Tail of your Ski, hold it with your trailing hand, and pull it into the spin. Hold on to the Tail for as long as you can. Keep your eyes over your shoulder all throughout the time that you are pulling the Tail to the spin. Find your landing when you reach about more than half of your way around while still holding the Tail of your Ski, then tread heavily on the landing.
  
• 540 Tail Grab
  It is important to master the 360 Tail Grab as well as the 180 before trying the 540 Tail Grab. In executing this Ski Trick, recall how a 360 Tail Grab is done. Get into a tucked Iron Cross when you set your spin. When you have already crossed up, look for the Tail of your Ski, hold that with your trailing hand, and pull it into the spin. Keep your eyes over your shoulder all throughout the time that you are pulling the Tail to the spin. At this point in time, you are coming through the 360. To avoid over- rotating, remember to focus at the spot where you will be landing. Center your weight and reach your landing with the Tips of your Skis first, then the Tails.
  
• Cork Screw 720
  Make sure you have learned and tried the 540 spin before attempting the Cork Screw 720. In this Ski Trick, the important thing is to use the Edge to set your spin. Moreover, a Cork Screw 720 involved two axes. You can start on your left or your right, whichever side you land through the outside Edge. When you popped off your Edge, reach with your right arm forward and drive your head down towards your left hip. If you wish to spin faster, tuck up tight. But open up if you want to stop. You will see your landing after a 540. Keep looking at the spot where you will be landing and then stomp it after getting out of your spin.
  
• Switched Corked 720
  In this Ski Trick, it is very essential to look over the shoulder which you are planning to make your spin. With about three feet away from the lip, slide your Skis flat on the take off and begin the spin. You should be rotating the moment you leave the ground. While spinning, cork out this Ski Trick by driving down your lead shoulder. Doing so should likewise make your head to follow. Execute the grab as the spin progresses and if that certain point comes when you have enough momentum to sustain the whole Ski Trick. Keep the grab for as long as you can for more style. If you have gone 540, find where you will be landing. When you spot the landing, stomp it.
  
• Half-Cab Mute Grab
  In this Ski Trick, it is better if you are already accustomed in skiing backwards. Look over your shoulder as you approach the jump and catch sight of the lip. Keep your eyes over your shoulder the moment you are airborne and start spinning. Make the grab through your trailing hand. Pull the grab when you want to spin slower. Focus on your landing, then tread heavily and ski on.

Inverted Aerials

Ski Tricks classified as Inverted Aerials include Under flip, Switch Backflip, Mute Back Flip, D Spin, and D Spin 900.

• Under Flip
  Turn 90º to face the slope at a right angle. Instead of moving your head downhill, move it toward the mountain. Spin 90º to land switch.
  
• Switch Backflip
  More technical Switch Flips were based on this Ski Trick. Concentrate on the end of the jump if you drop in backwards. During your take-off, find the lip by slightly rotating your shoulder to your left or right, depending on which side is easier for you. When you reach the lip of the jump, pop straight up and then drop your head back. Remember that right timing of rotation is very important in this Ski Trick. You will be able to know if you are spinning too fast or too slow if you can see the landing when you are flipping. Pulling your legs around will make you spin faster. On the other hand, arch your back if you wish to slow down your spin. In taking off, throw your head back as far as possible so that you will see your landing. Search the landing by looking through your legs when you come around. Reach out, and then stick it.
  
• Mute Back Flip
  In this Ski Trick, you need to consider these basic four parts: flip, grab, tweak, and the landing. In the flip, set it up and make sure you have more rotation. Ideally, you must be tucked and grabbing before the end of the first quarter of your spin. Thus, quickly go for the grab when you tuck. To convert the trick from a backflip into a laid out one, arch your back as much as you can. Doing so will also make your spin slower. As for your landing, the right time to land is when your feet already passed the top of your spin. Tread heavily on the landing when you reach it.
  
• D Spin
  You can do this Ski Trick only if you can already execute a 720 and backflips. At the take off, turn your head and throw your shoulder down on either side (left or right). If you want to go for the grab, cross your Skis and move them in such a way that it will be easy for you to grab the Tail of your Ski. Find where you will be landing once you have already finished one spin. Keep your eyes on the spot and touch down.
  
• D Spin 900
  Sensibly enough, you should be able to make the D Spin before you advance to D Spin 900. To do this Ski Trick, make an off-axis 360 which is nearly on the state of being horizontal. Then go into an off-axis backflip before the Corked 360 comes to an end. Lastly, execute a 180 after the flip for the 900.

Halfpipe

The Halfpipe category is composed of Ski Tricks such as 540 in the Pipe, Flair in the Pipe, and Alley Oop.

• 540 in the Pipe
  Just like in most Ski Tricks, you need to learn first the simple Ski Tricks before you can do the less simple ones. Likewise, a few more techniques or skills are necessary as you advance to more difficult Ski Tricks. As for the 540 in the Pipe, you should first be able to make a 360 and land off kickers. You must also learn to get above the lip on the Halfpipe. Go near the lip of the Halfpipe. Coil your body, pop at the right time, and have enough height in order to finish the rotation. When you are already out of the lip, uncoil your body and be ready for your spin. One important thing to remember is to keep your head turned. Doing so will keep you from stopping the spin. Once you spot your landing, your whole body will follow. If you keep your eyes on where you will be landing, your spin will slow down. Land with your Skis and stick 540.
  
• Flair in the Pipe
  Make sure you can do backflips before you even dare to do this Ski Trick. Bear in mind that you need to have a nice and correct take off. Be upright as you go near the wall. Set the spin when you start to pass the top of the wall. Begin your spin the same way you would do on a backflip. Move your head and shoulders backward and throw your hips forward. Set your spin by slightly pulling your right shoulder backward. With this setup, your head will be positioned near the Tail of your Ski. You may also grab the Tail for more style. The ideal time to spot your landing is when you are nearly halfway through your spin. Spin the last 90º and then tread heavily on your landing.
  
• Alley Oop
  In this Ski Trick, you will spin against your momentum. You go round uphill as you take off the lip of the pipe. For the Alley Oop Flat Spin 540, take off and throw your uphill shoulder down the fall line. The tips of your Skis will create a loop as you approach the fall line. Spin alongside your hips or your back opposite the ground. As for the landing, you can go backwards after doing a 360, or you can drop the Tips of your Skis and continue making the 540.

Rail

Ski Tricks under the Rail category include the Rail Slide and Kinked Rail Slide.

• Rail Slide
  Position your Skis perpendicular to the Rail with your feet shoulder width apart. Distribute your weight evenly on your feet and you should be facing the direction where you are headed. Keep your eyes at the end of the Rail when you start to slide to make sure that you will be able to make it all throughout. As you approach the end of the Rail, turn your shoulders to where you want to take your exit. A small pop will do to clear the Rail and stick your landing. As additional guidelines, jump high enough when getting onto the Rail and it is better to make a smooth slide rather than jump up and land on it.
  
• Kinked Rail Slide
  To start this Ski Trick, go into the take off and position in such a way that the Rail is centered between your legs. Make a small jump as you hit the lip and make a 90º turn of your Skis to the Rail. Just like in the Rail Slide, concentrate on the end of the Rail and keep your feet flat on the Rail, making the Base to glide on the surface. When you reach the first bend, make sure that your Base is still flat on the Rail. You can do this by making a slight shift of your weight down the Rail. Make your knees, ankles, as well as your upper body angled down the hill. When you reach the end of the bend, shift your weight backward with the angle of the Rail. At this point, your Bases should remain flat on the Rail, your weight centered over your Skis, and your eyes at the end of the Rail. Ride it out when you reach the end of the Rail.

Freeride

An example of Ski Trick under the Freeride category is Hucking Your Meat (Cliff Drops). You can hit the cliff either with a straight drop or with speed. It will be helpful if your will do this Ski Trick on a cliff which you thick will make it easy for you to learn how to huck. A straight drop involved a bigger impact but less space when you are skiing out of the landing. Hitting a cliff with speed is another thing. Don't bother in thinking about having a crash. Stay positive and imagine what the hit would be like. Pop when you approach the lip, raise your legs, and then tuck them in. Do not forget to maintain your balance and position your arms in front of you. When you find your landing as you fall, you will be able to absorb the impact by extending your legs towards the landing. Tread heavily and carry out a slow spin to stop.

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Nordic or Telemark skiing – What is it you want to do?

Free-heel skiing, Nordic skiing, Telemark skiing, XC, Nordic downhill, on-piste skiing, langlauf, backcountry touring, ski-mountaineering, cross-country skiing, Nordic touring, ski de fond, ski biathlon, off-piste skiing, ski-touring ...

This article is designed to answer a few questions we often get about what we do, or to clarify some of the confusion about the nature of our activity.

A classic is: 'Ah, telemarking – you mean you go off into the woods and shoot things!?' Hmmmmm! Another area of misunderstanding, for example, is the difference between 'telemark touring' and 'ski mountaineering' or the question of what a telemark skier can and cannot do. The following is based on an original article by Bonny Masson – read it, and all will become clear!

What is 'this' (Nordic, telemark, cross-country, etc.) skiing!?

Just for the moment, if we can call 'this' skiing 'free-heel' skiing. We can think of 'free-heel' as the all-inclusive family name and then it is easier to describe and explain the various 'sons and daughters' of 'free-heel'.

Free-heel skiing is any form of skiing where the heel is not fixed down as it is in Alpine (commonly known as 'downhill') skiing. Often people will say, 'Oh, you mean cross country skiing ... but you can't tackle any slopes ... you can't turn'. They have an image of going along the valley bottom on very skinny skis and soft, low boots. This is only true of beginners at the gentlest end of the Nordic skiing spectrum but within the free-heel family there are several vastly different types of skiing.

Continuing development in technique and equipment has allowed and/or produced more specialization and very high standards, particularly in Free-heel downhill or Telemark skiing. Each specialty has its particular appeal: some tackle steep descents, others concentrate on speed, others are to do with traveling and touring but all share ease of travel compared with Alpine skiing. This ease of travel is entirely due to that essential characteristic of the boot to ski binding – the free-heel.

Free-heel bindings attach only to the front of the boot but it is a strong enough attachment to allow no lateral movement of the boot. The bindings and skis become heavier and the boots higher and more rigid as you go from Track skiing through Skating and Nordic Touring to Telemarking. All the footwear allows the mid-foot to flex and the heel to lift. As your foot and lower leg are not held in a rigid system, there is a fantastically natural and unrestricted feeling to all kinds of free-heel skiing. (How often, in Alpine/downhill boots, have you longed to be able to ski across flat stretches of snow or walk about in comfort?)

It is also worth pointing out at this stage that you can do any technique on any specialization of free-heel equipment – i.e. you can do telemark turns on skating equipment and you can skate using piste telemark skis, but if you are on skating equipment you are at an advantage when traveling on undulating, machine-groomed tracks and if you skiing on-piste or off-piste in the Alps you would be far better off on shaped telemark skis and plastic boots!

Within the 'free-heel family' we have the following:
• Track skiing, XC, cross-country skiing, langlauf, skating, biathlon
• Telemark skiing, telemarking free-heel downhill
• Mountain touring, hut-to-hut touring

So, to give the quick answer to 'What is it we do?' – we do everything within this 'free-heel family' of skiing, i.e. everything we do is on free-heel equipment! Easy!? Or forget all the terminology – it's all 'sliding'!

Track skiing, cross-country skiing, XC, langlauf

Track skiing is mainly about traveling over undulating ground and is what many people will recognize as 'cross-country skiing', 'XC', 'langlauf', 'sci di fondo' or 'ski de fond'.

In cross-country skiing light shoes, non-metal edged skis and long poles are used in machine-prepared tracks. Traction or forward propulsion is achieved through spreading wax on the central part of the sole of the ski. The snow crystals grip with the wax allowing you to slide forwards, and not backwards, and to ski uphill. Alternatively some skis have a texture cut or molded into the ski base to achieve the same end.

With cross-country skiing there is a feeling of lightness and freedom, whether wandering through a beautiful winter landscape at a 'walking' pace or competing in the very challenging sport. The latter is what we see in Olympic cross-country skiing races and is a very technical discipline as well as being one of the most demanding aerobic activities: both arms and legs propel the skier.

Cross-country skiing: Skating

'Skating' uses specialized boots and skis and does not depend on waxes for grip. Again, this is still recognizably 'cross-country skiing' or 'XC', etc. but is simply a specialized form of it.

Skating takes place on a machined trail running alongside cross-country skiing tracks and uses a motion that is very similar to ice-skating with the benefit of poles to aid propulsion as well.

Incidentally, both track skiing and skating are very low impact activities, ideal for those of you with bad knees who still want to be an aerobic beast! And you get to dress up in Lycra! It is even possible to train and take part in races (fun or more serious) during the summer by using roller skis.

Cross-country skiing: Biathlon

The Biathlon is when we go into the woods and shoot things! But it is a competitive form of skate skiing rather than anything to do with Telemark. It is a skating race with loops of cross-country skiing interspersed with sessions on a shooting range.

In biathlon, fitness and control of bodily functions (!) is phenomenal ... imagine running three miles and then standing still enough to shoot and hit a target the size of a small apple successfully! And then doing it all again!

Telemark skiing

Telemark skiing or telemarking is becoming very popular because it feels GREAT and it works really well off-piste. The 'telemark' itself is a turn – alternately one ski then the other is advanced while both legs are flexed then extended ready for the next turn. Something like a series of curtsies while stepping down the slope. The back heel has to be able to lift a little because of the position. The skis are parallel, equally weighted and equally edged in modern telemark turns. The low point is much higher than in traditional telemark turns (about the same amount of leg bend as for parallel turns).

The strength of the Telemark turn is in difficult and off-piste conditions and is due to the increased fore-and-aft stability and the adjustability of the longer stance. Imagine what you would do if you stood with your feet side by side (parallel skiing) and were pushed forward. You would quickly put one foot in front and to stop yourself falling forward (telemark position).

Also important is the fact that you do not have to radically change your weighting on the skis when you go off piste. In parallel skiing (alpine / downhill skiing), after learning to ski with most weight on the outside ski, you eventually become good enough to go off piste. Then you have to change and learn to equally weight your two skis! Telemark skiers always weight their telemarks about 50-50. Lateral stability is the same as in parallel turns as telemark skiers also have their feet hip-width apart.

Where can you use the Telemark turn?

The greatest misunderstanding is that you can only Telemark turn on free-heel equipment. In fact, ploughs, basic swings and parallel turns are all possible and EASY! This is called 'Free-heel Downhill'.

We teach complete beginners just the same way as on alpine equipment. They can only learn to Telemark once they can ski parallels confidently. All the basic body management / ski use elements are the same. Experienced free-heel skiers will use the turn most suitable for the conditions. E.g. there is no advantage in telemarking on icy surfaces so we parallel; if we're touring and meet difficult snow when carrying a heavy sac, we use step swings, etc.

Modern skis and boots allow us to ski what was previously thought only possible on alpine equipment. Good, modern telemark gear and technique can cope with 'shredding' on-piste at any level, including moguls and extreme off-piste descents.

Telemark skiing equipment

As the gear has to cope with greater forces, high plastic telemark boots and very strong bindings with release attachments are used. Telemark skis have metal edges, the same camber as alpine skis and all the latest technical features like torsion boxes, caps, various amounts of side-cut for carving, etc. There are even telemark Fat-boys!

Many tours such as the Haute Route are regularly telemarked and extreme skiing descents made, but we still enjoy the advantage of ease and speed of travel compared with skiers on alpine ski mountaineering gear because of the ability to flex the mid-foot when striding forward. See the section on 'Alpine Mountain Touring' below.

So really, when say we are 'telemarking' or 'telemark skiing' we are actually 'free-heel downhill skiing' – it is just an awful lot easier to say we are 'telemark skiing'! Also telemark skiing has very little to do with 'cross-country skiing', 'track skiing' or 'skating': telemark skiing is done in an environment which is the same as alpine / downhill skiing whereas cross-country skiing is usually an activity of the forests, valleys and plateau with no uplift. The similarity is the equipment angle – the free-heel binding.

Born again skiers – free the heels and free the mind!

If you already ski on alpine gear, you should be able to ski parallels straight away using modern telemark equipment. You can enjoy learning to telemark whilst being able to get around happily. However, as alpine gear has been developed to set you within acceptable limits on your skis, you may have to revise your stance if you've become rather lazy. A few sessions of serious concentration whilst sitting on the snow usually does it!

You will find that telemarking really revitalizes your interest in skiing because of the tremendous feeling of freedom the gear gives and it will open your eyes to the limitless potential beyond the piste. As a bonus, when (if?) you swap back to alpine skis you will find your skiing has really benefited as you balance will be much better. A friend who recently tried his alpine gear again said he felt 'wooden' in it and couldn't wait to unclip his heels!

Mountain touring and hut-to-hut touring

This is any skiing away from prepared pistes or trails. It may involve climbing passes or peaks and skiing down as part of a trip. This may be a single or multi-day outing. The ski equipment depends on the terrain skied and the aim of the trip. Clothing for safety in remote mountain situations is needed.

There are two types of free-heel mountain touring:

Nordic mountain or hut-to-hut touring

Comprises a journey over rolling mountains, typically Norwegian or Cairngorms. It emphasizes traveling and coping with variable snow conditions beyond the trails as opposed to skiing the very steepest slopes (although these are available!) It uses the techniques from track and skating as well as downhill turns.

There are wonderful trips even for snow-ploughers as long as they have learnt the traveling techniques. Metal-edged Nordic skis stronger bindings and substantial leather boots are needed. Nordic camber skis allow fast travel but need more skill to turn. Ski sticks are still long as they are used for propulsion. Ascents are made using waxes or skins.

Alpine mountain touring

Alpine mountains are more steeply up and down in character and the snow will generally be much deeper / difficult than in Norway. There may be crevasses on some routes.

Modern, shorter, wider and shaped telemark skis (carving), stronger bindings and high plastic boots are needed for flotation and control. A good standard of freeheel dowhhill and practice in off-piste skiing techniques, gained in a ski area, are a must before alpine tours are undertaken. Avalanche transceivers and the ability to use them are necessary.

You might hear people talk of 'ski-mountaineering'. This is exactly the same, touring in an 'alpine' environment. Many skiers do this type of touring on alpine touring equipment – this is a system which allows you to walk up hills by releasing the heel of the binding plate (being fixed at the front on a hinge) and is then clipped down for any descents to become exactly like an alpine / downhill set-up. As such this activity is a part of the 'Downhill skiing family' as opposed to the 'Free-heel family' (remember the definitions at the start of the article). So the activity and the environment is the same but the equipment is different and the 'alpine ski mountaineers' cannot telemark!

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Nordic skiing is fun, and it's great winter exercise

Nordic, or cross-country skiing, is an equal opportunity sport. Everyone is invited, and almost anyone can do it, regardless of age.

    Cross-country is safer and less-expensive than downhill skiing. It's a low-impact sport that puts minimal stress on joints. It exercises both your upper and lower body, arms, shoulders, legs, and nearly everything else.

    Done correctly, physiologists quoted in the UC Berkeley Wellness Letter it's probably the best exercise there is. There are many places to do it, such as at local park or at hundreds of resorts in the U.S. and Canada. The resorts have teachers to show you these moves:

    First, the shuffle: Use the skis like snowshoes and tramp across the snow using the poles for balance.

    Kick-and-glide: With this classic technique, you transfer your weight from one ski to the other and pole on the opposite side. Use the poles to propel you along and help retain balance. You'll find it's a natural movement like walking, but it takes a while to get it right.

    Skating: Alternately push off on your foot and glide as long as possible. You can do double poling or alternate poling. With this technique, you can go very fast, but you need waxed skis and longer poles for skating. Some resorts have special trails for skating. Others discourage it.

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Ski Carving - Body Positioning

The concept of Ski Carving originated in Alpine Snowboarding in Europe during the later part of the 1980s. Then the Ski industry got inspired by it and now, more and more skiers are learning the joys of Ski Carving. However, being a fairly new concept, many skiers commit mistakes in Ski Carving such as positioning the body in the wrong way. In this section, we will look at some problem areas and guidelines in proper positioning of the body when carving:

Knee Positioning

Ideally, skiers go from turn to turn together with their hips, knees, and feet at the same distance apart. However, at the initiation part of the turn, some skiers cannot make clean and smooth crossovers because their knees are not positioned correctly. They are either too close together or positioned too far apart. Here are some problem areas on why skiers fail to make turns correctly:

• A- Frame
  In the Snowplough position, skiers position their knees inside their feet most of the time. Likewise, skiers work, steer, pressure, and focus on their downhill ski and legs as they learn how to Ski parallel. This causes many skiers to have an inside leg that is less effective than the outer leg, resulting to a slower time in leaving the knee positioning in an A-frame.
  
• Edge Platform
  Another problem is not having edge platform that is strong enough to press against as well as give support towards the end of the turn. When this happens, the outer Ski tends to break away and leaves you with your knees closer together compared to your feet.

To unblock your inner leg during the initiation phase of the turn, follow these guidelines:

• You can unlock the A-frame that hinders you to make smooth crossovers at your turn initiation by getting rid of your Ski Poles for a couple of runs. Without the Ski Poles, you can now use your free hand to encourage the leg which blocks the turn to move across.
  
• In making the turn, put your hand gently inside your leg and pull it across. Do this for a couple of times.
  
• You can now get your Ski Poles and stay conscious of your inner leg.

It is always important to keep awareness with your body, especially from your hips down to your feet. Doing so will make you focus on your knees and legs when performing turns.

Focus on your Hips

A cross-over is part of a turn wherein your body needs to move across the Skis to tilt them on the new edge. The cross-over begins at the end of a turn, and then, as the name implies, crosses over the Skis until such time that they tilt onto the new edges before starting another turn. You need to have a positive cross-over since it can provide a strong edge hold before making a turn.

It is very important to focus on certain body parts in order to ensure an unblocked and smooth cross-over. For example, many skiers are not able to get the full use of their hips when making turns and cross-over. You should know where and when to move your hips. In this section, we will look at some guidelines on how to get the full use of your hips when carving:

• Look for some terrain where the slope is clear and wide enough that will allow you to go across and make turns.
  
• When you already found the area, begin to traverse across the slope. When you are close to that point when you will be starting your turn, place your hand slowly at the side of your hip facing uphill. Apply some pressure against it. The direction of this pressure is similar to where you want your hips to go in a turn, that is, across your Skis in order to aid you in changing onto the new edges for another new turn.
  
• Begin with a gentle turn shape which is close in the fall-line on an even slope. Start the turn increasingly across the fall-line.

Make sure to concentrate on key areas of your body in order to make a smooth turn. With continuous practice, together with a lot of confidence, skill, and patience, you will be able to get used to positioning your body to avoid blocks and make smooth turns.

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Ski Carving - Common Problems, Drills, and Body Positioning

More and more skiers are discovering the joys of Ski Carving. If you can make carved turns on groomed slopes, you can definitely be able to carve on other surfaces such as hardpack and Ice. But in general, the only additional requirement is greater precision. Being more aggressive will not hurt either. Take a look at the different essentials you need to know about Ski Carving:

Making carved turns is not too difficult. However, take note of the problems that you may encounter when ski carving so that you will know what to do when they happen. Also, keep in mind that the different Exercises or drills will greatly help you in improving your Carving skill.

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Ski Carving - Common Ski Carving Problems and How to Solve Them

You do not need some special skills in order to carve a turn. The fact is, you can carve on firm Snow Ski Surfaces if you can make a carved turn on groomed Snow. This is basically the same when it comes to skill. However, you need greater precision in carving on hard, icy Snow. Surfaces like these allow much less room for mistakes, and skiers are having problems when carving Ice or hardpack. Know the common problems that skiers face when carving on gentle slopes and firm Snow surfaces and learn how to correct them:

On Gentle Slopes

• Problem: Upper body and hips swining towards the direction of the turn
• Solution: To correct this fault, hold your Ski Poles horizontally and position them at chest level. Make large turns while preventing the Ski Poles to move in the direction of the turn.
  
  Another way of solving this problem is to ski several large turns on a gentle slope. As you turn, position your hands on your outside knee.
  
• Problem: Leaning on the backs of your Ski Boots
• Solution: Traverse across a slope. Lean far backward on the backs of your Ski Boots and then lean far forward against the fronts of your Ski Boots. After this, lean in such a way that your shins are slightly touching the tongues of your Ski Boots.
  
• Problem: Very straight and stiff legs when making turns
• Solution: Your knees will bend if you slightly lower your hips and you lean, touching the fronts of your Ski Boots.

On Firm Snow Surfaces

• Problem: Outside Ski tracking away from the skier at the start of the turn
  Just when you thought that you have started everything right, a problem arises during the control phase of the turn. It can be poor fore-aft pressure control, the Carve components faded very early, or it can be also that the skier miscalculated on how far he must lean toward the inside of the turn. If you lean your whole body on the inside of the turn, your balance will be affected and it is very hard to adjust.
• Solution/s: Do not forget the basics. Foot steering as well as pressure control may not be powerful enough to sustain a turn. Use them at the precise moment and with enough power.
  
  When you decide to increase edging, remember to apply enough pressure to your Ski so it will not run on a straight line and keep the Ski turning instead.
  
  Poor fore-aft pressure control can be one of the reasons why your outside Ski tracks away form you. To solve this, make sure that you should be centered over the heels and arches of your feet at the start of any turn. If you are quite over your heels at the end of the turn, shift your weight and get centered over the arch before starting the next turn.
  
• Problem: Tails of Skis breaking loose at the end of the turn
  This problem usually occurs on smooth Snow. When the Tail of your outside Ski breaks loose, you lose your Edge control and your rhythm is altered. Contrary to what others think, this is not due to dull Edges. Timing and the shape of the turn have something to do with it. If you focus on gaining speed at the start, you will tend to gain control at the later part of the turn. This makes the Edge grip of the Tail to break loose.
• Solution/s: Apply pressure at the start of the turn so that you can reduce the need of hitting the brakes as you approach the end of the turn. Moreover, try getting out of the turn a bit earlier.
  
• Problem: Failure in making a powerful Carve
  The cause of this problem may be a Ski tracking away into a slide as you progress in the turn, trails which are less defined in the Snow, unnecessary sliding on Ice, or not having enough Edge angle.
• Solution/s: The primary requirement towards having a powerful Carve is sufficient amount of Edge angle. To increase edging, shift your body weight on the inside of the turn. Likewise, learn how to Position your Hips as well as your upper body. You will eventually realize that proper body positioning can improve the way you Carve.
  

Making powerful Carved turns entails precision and more aggressiveness (for firm Snow surfaces). Do not worry if you commit mistakes on the first few trials. Learn from them to further improve your Carving skills.

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Ski Carving - Drills in Learning to Carve

In Ski Carving, your objective is to ride the arc of a Ski through its natural radius with no sliding or skidding. The trick is to tip your Ski on edge, stand on it, and press your Ski's Sidecut into the Snow Ski Surface. To further help you in discovering the wonders of Carving, here are some exercises:

• Training Wheel Carve
  Put your Skis in parallel position. Gain speed and set your Ski on edge, making sure that the whole Ski Edge is into contact with the Snow. At this point, the Ski will start to turn automatically. Ride at this turn and switch feet. Apply pressure in varied levels and increase edging of your Ski.
  
• Lay Down Carve
  Find an obstacle-free groomed slope. Ski and try to lay over way too far, that point when you are on the edge of a fall. Learn how to keep proper position and take control of your speed, force, and the size of your turn. Try to work these elements together to avoid falls.
  
• Railroad Carve
  Find a flat area for this drill. With Skis parallel, ski and gain speed. Set both of your Skis on edge in one direction with proper hip movements and refine it with your ankles and knees. You should be able to feel a gentle turn at this point. Let the edging do the work and do not move your feet. You can increase the Edge angle when you repeat this Exercise.
  
• Railroad Carve Traverse
  This drill is similar to a Railroad Carve, except that this Exercise must be done on a wider groomed terrain. Recall the steps in doing a Railroad Carve. When you get to that part of increasing your Edge angle with your hips, point your Skis 45º across the hill and make a run. When you feel that your Skis are already turning on their own, increase edging in order to carve pure arcs. Hang on while your Skis work their way across the hill. You can finish this Exercise with a turn or stop before reaching the side of the run.
  
• Chewing Gum Carve
  Imagination will play a role in this drill. Make fast, large turns in a groomed slope with moderate pitch. This is where your imagination comes in. Act as if your Skis have tough gums, making it harder for you to lift your inside Ski. When you reach the control phase of the turn, lift your inside Ski off the Snow. Increase and reduce the pressure on your outside Ski since you need to pull up against the resistance brought about by the gums. Return the inside Ski into contact with the Snow as you make your exit.

If you will compare Carving on gentle slopes and Carving on firm Snow surfaces, you will find that more effort is needed to make powerful Carved turns on firm Snow. These are just some of the exercises or drills that can really help you in enhancing the way you carve. It pays to work hard until you have what it takes to make strong Carved turns in any kind of terrain.

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Ski Jumping - Disciplines in Ski Jumping

Ski Jumping features events both in individual and team categories: Individual Large Hill, Individual Normal Hill, Individual Sky Flying, and events for teams.

• Individual Normal Hill
  This event features a K-point between 75 to 99 meters in which each Ski jumper executes two jumps. K-point refers to the section where the landing hill starts to flatten out. This indicates the hill size and the calculation of points for the distance attained.
  
• Individual Large Hill
  The mechanics of this event is relatively the same to that of the Individual Normal Hill, except that the K-point is larger than 100 meters.
  
• Ski Flying Hill
  In this event, each Ski jumper takes two jumps on the Ski flying hill with a K-point of more than 185 meters.
  
• Team Event
  In this category, teams consist of four members each. Each executes two jumps on the large hill.

In Ski Jumping competitions, points are given to the participants based on both distance and style. Distance is measured using measuring devices operated by separate distance judges. Every jump has a critical point which is the point to which all jumps are compared. Bonus points are given for jumps beyond the critical point and points are deducted for jumps before the critical point. Bonus and penalty points are given per meter.

Style is judged by 5 judges who can give up to 20 points for style. The lowest and highest of these 5 scorings are removed and the remaining points are added to the distance score. Style is determined by:

• A high and wide curve over the outrun
• Aerodynamics position in the air; Relaxed body position leaning forward over the Skis
• Smooth transition from flight to landing position
• Good telemark landing; If no telemark landing is used up to 4 points can be deducted. Up to 10 points are deducted for a fall.

Ski Jumping offers different events both for individuals and teams. Each of these follows a certain set of rules and mechanics that contestants should follow. It will be more enjoyable if you know the important points in these Ski Jumping Disciplines.

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Skiing Disciplines - Speed Skiing

As the name suggests, Speed Skiing is all about Speed. It is the winter sport of fast Skiing in a straight line Downhill. It is likewise considered as the fastest non-motorized sport in the world. In this section, we will look at the things you need to know about Speed Skiing:

History

From the very beginning of Skiing, people were obsessed with speed that can be reached by Skiing downhill and using gravity to propel you as fast as possible. Some people took the speed element and focused their Skiing technique and aspirations on Skiing as fast as they can.

In 1930, the Speed Skiing record was set at 105, 7 km/hour. The latest speed record was set by Harry Egger in 1999 with an astounding speed of 248, 1 km/hr. You can imagine what kinds of kicks (and dangers) are related to Skiing with such speed!

During the later part of 1950s, Speed Skiing was organized at Monte Rosa glacier which borders Switzerland and Italy. At 12000 feet, enthusiasts of this Skiing Discipline throw themselves in the air under Matterhorn and with a 62° maximum gradient. Two decades later, a benchmark of 120mph had been passed.

In the 1980s, Speed Skiing became accessible to all enthusiasts of speed. In fact, as long as regulations are followed, courses for Speed Skiing can be set up at any place. Some of these parameters indicate that courses should be Off piste and high speeds can be reached on less than 45º gradient. Sensibly enough, a great set up for Speed Skiing is useless if the skiers are not technically and physically ready. Aside from Skiing ability, you need to have Skis which are 8 feet long. Likewise, it is essential to have the ability of getting into a low tuck, keeping it that way no matter what the wind speed is, and coming to a safe Snow plough stop.

In 1992, Speed Skiing became a demonstration sport at the Winter Olympics held at Albertville.

Speed Skiing Equipment and Apparel

Speed Skiing uses very specific high-tech equipment that is totally focused on increasing the speed that can be reached. Here are some features of Speed Skiing equipment and apparel:

• The Skis are 240 cm in length and specifically built for Speed Skiing.
• The Ski Bindings and Ski Boots are specifically made for Speed Skiing allowing DIN 21. The Ski Bindings must be well cranked up in order to handle vibration.
• The Ski Poles are bent in such a way that they form around the body and they have up to 2 lbs of weight and a minimum length of 1 mater.
• The Ski suits are made of air tight latex which prevents the skier from being blown up as his suit fills with air under enormous speed. A Ski suit can also have a polyurethane covering in order to reduce wind resistance.
• Non-flammable pads are used to protect the skier from burning when he crashes in high speed.
• The helmets are aerodynamically designed in the shape of a water drop to minimize resistance and increase streamlining.
• Special spoilers are attached to the lower legs to dampen turbulence and minimize resistance.

Speed Skiing Tracks

Speed Skiing is not performed on normal pistes. It is done on special runs or steep courses which are all one kilometer in length. The first 400 meters are used to gain speed, the top speed is measured in the next 100 meters and about 500 meters are used for slowing down and coming to a stop. Speed Skiing tracks are not very common. There are approximately thirty of them around the world.

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Skiing Disciplines - Telemark Skiing

Telemark Skiing features the excitement of speed and free-heel Skiing. In this Skiing Discipline, the heels of the Ski Boots are not connected to the Skis. The Ski Bindings are only attached at the toe end. This is also the reason why Telemark Skiing is sometimes called Free-heel Skiing. In this section, we will look at different aspects of Telemark Skiing:

History

The word Telemark originated from a region in Norway where Sondre Norheim introduced the so-called Telemark turn in 1868. One important highlight in the history of Telemark Skiing is the introduction of the first super-sidecut Telemark Ski in 1996-97. Many skiers look with respect and awe at Telemarkers admiring both the grace and skill that is connected with Telemark Skiing. Telemarking has grown a lot in popularity through out the world with more specific equipment and lessons becoming available to more people.

Telemark Disciplines

There are at least three Telemark Disciplines which are governed by the International Ski Federation - Telemark Giant Slalom, Telemark Classic, and Telemark Sprint Classic.

• Telemark Giant Slalom
  This competition event is similar to Giant Slalom, except that Telemark Giant Slalom features a jump which is judged based on style and distance.
• Telemark Classic
  Also has a section of Giant Slalom. This competition event includes one jump, one 360º turn, as well as one uphill run.
• Telemark Sprint Classic
  In this competition event, the skier executes a 360º turn after finishing a downhill section and runs using the Cross-country Skiing's Classical Technique for about 200 meters.

Learning How to Telemark Ski

Telemarking is something you really have to try to learn it. Watch how others Telemark and try to understand their body movements. You can try your first Telemark turns without the help of an instructor by using any free-heel Skiing equipment available to you. If you decide that you really want to get into it, it would be better to look for a qualified instructor. Here are some guidelines in learning how to Telemark:

• Begin to slide down a slope with feet shoulder - width apart and in a balanced posture.
• Slightly bend your knees, ankles, and waist toward the ground.
• To start a Turn, flex one knee close to the ground and slide the same foot backwards. Then glide the other foot forward.
• To turn left, place the left Ski Pole downhill and to the left side of your body. Similarly, plant your other Ski Pole when you want to turn to the right.
• Rotate your hips, knees, and ankles to maneuver your feet to where you want to go. Turn around using the planted Ski Pole as your indicator.
• Make sure that weight is distributed evenly on the uphill edges of your Skis.
• After the Turn, extend your knees, ankles, as well as your waist upward.

Telemark Skiing Equipment

You need special gear in this Skiing Discipline, at least for some equipment. Generally, there are specifications for Skis, Ski Boots, and Ski Bindings, and you can make use of the same equipment you use in other Skiing activities. Here are some of the features of Telemark Skiing equipment:

• You actually do not need specific Telemark Skis to learn how to Telemark. Many regular Alpine Skiing Skis will do in the beginning. Just make sure to use relatively wide Skis that are not too long. You can switch to Telemark Skis which are usually less stiff than Alpine Skis as you improve. Nonetheless, here are some things to consider when buying Telemark Skis:
  
• Flexible and lightweight Skis are very helpful to Telemarkers because there is less pressure from the legs when carving a Turn. To see if the Skis are flexible, push the Ski on the middle while bracing on its tail and tip.
• You can have two options: a conventional Ski or the shaped Ski. The first one offers more stability and speed, while making Turns is easier if you use shaped Skis. Choose the one that will meet your requirements.
• Take your time in choosing Telemark Skis. Check a couple of Skis and choose the one that meets your Skiing needs.
  
• Skiers who are into Telemark Skiing usually use Ski Boots made of plastic.
• One primary feature of Telemark Skiing is that the heels of the Ski Boots are not attached to the Skis. Therefore, you should have a combination of Ski Boots and Ski Bindings which permits you to raise your heel from the surface of the Ski.

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Snowcat Skiing: What Is It?
 
by: Lachlan Brown

Backcountry skiers near Golden, British Columbia travel high into the Rocky Mountains in the warm comfort of snowcats. Traveling in groups of 12, lead by two qualified guides, skiers and snowboarders are carried to elevations of almost 10,000 ft., to ski and ride on a glacier or down great alpine bowls. The views across North America’s continental divide are spectacular. Soft powder snow and fresh tracks is the expected norm, every run, every day. The small group of 14 skiers and riders make a small mark on the vast landscape.

Intermediate and expert skiers wanting a very special powder snow holiday experience generally have three options: backcountry touring, snowcat skiing and heli-skiing.

Backcountry touring is slow-paced and as relaxed as your want to make it. It usually requires quite a bit of time, a high level of physical fitness, considerable experience and specialized clothing and equipment.

Snowcat skiing is adapted to short holidays and many operators offer 3-day and 4-day full-service tour packages. Snowcat skiing is not normally weather-dependent and there is no “down-time”. Every day is a good ski day. Good physical condition always makes a tour more enjoyable, but there is none of the climbing and walking of backcountry touring. Snowcat skiing provides a relaxed vacation that requires no prior experience or special equipment.

Heli-skiing is the “Cadillac” option for backcountry skiing. It is also the most expensive, being about twice the cost of snowcat skiing. It is also weather-dependent. To allow for “down-days”, tours tend to be a few days longer than cat skiing tours. Heli-operators usually offer a guaranteed minimum amount of skiing. Significant additional cost can result if guests exceed the minimum, which often occurs with good weather.

Efficient operation of helicopters is an economic necessity for operators and helicopters are usually shared among groups. This can result in a pace of skiing influenced by factors other than the individual needs of each group. Unless guests pay for a dedicated helicopter, there is little opportunity to “sit out” a run. Typically, skiing groups can be as small as 4 and as large as 12, depending on the type of helicopter used.

Snowcat skiers enjoy a dedicated cat that moves according to the needs and ability of the group. Snowcat rides are warm, quiet, relaxed and very sociable. They give guests an opportunity to converse with their companions, to rest for the next run, and to adjust clothing. Guests wanting a longer rest can sit out a run and visit with the cat driver on the ride back down the mountain. Lunch is grazed on over the course of the day. Guests can leave extra clothing in the cat and adjust what they wear each run. If a guest wishes to quit early for the day, a staff member will take them back to the lodge on a snowmobile.

Heli-skiing operators use vast tenures covering many hundreds of sq. kms. This permits great access to “good” alpine snow under a variety of conditions. Snowcat operators use much less terrain. However, in Western Canada there are a number of snowcat operators that have tenures as large as 130 sq. km. These operators make effective use of the land and have more than enough area to provide consistently good skiing and “fresh tracks”.

A number of operators have remote backcountry lodges. These offer a unique wilderness experience. Guests ride to the lodges in helicopters, by snowmobile or in snowcats. Lodges are very comfortable and typically offer double-occupancy bedrooms with private bathrooms, excellent cuisine, a games room, a well stocked bar, hot tubs and massage facilities. The first run of the day is nearby and guests often ski to the lodge door at the end of the day.

Remote lodges help guests relax and enjoy their vacation. Guests are isolated from telephones, TV and the bustle of civilization. Soaking in a hot tub, with refreshment in hand, guests watch the drifting snow or the last rays of sunlight leave the surrounding peaks. It’s a relaxing way to cap a full day of powder skiing. The problem of the day becomes whether to have a massage before or after the hot tub (or perhaps to do the hot tub twice). Lodge life is very informal and there are no decisions about what to wear to dinner. You only brought one pair of sweatpants!

Most snowcat operators cater to 12, 24 or 36 clients, who ski from independent snowcats. Skiing tenures are sufficiently large that groups often won’t see one another in the course of the skiing day, even at a distance. Each group determines its own pace. While keeping their group together, guides are expert at finding “lines” to challenge more competent skiers/riders while leading others on a more “mellow” path. Guides set the bounds on every run leaving guests ample opportunity to find “fresh tracks”. Safety is always the first priority.

Some guests organize their own group of 12 skiers, so they are ensured a compatible skiing group of people they know. Many operators offer group organizers a significant discount for their efforts. However, most clients arrive singly, or in pairs and operators work hard to find compatible skiing groups for everyone. New friends are made very quickly.

Most cat skiing operators recommend their clients be at least “strong intermediates”. However, depending on the nature of their terrain, some operators can accommodate less experienced intermediate skiers who are in good physical condition. Potential clients should discuss concerns with operators.

Backcountry skiing usually offers consistently soft powder snow. Sometimes, areas of “wind crust” or “sun crust” will develop, but guides try to avoid these and quickly find better snow. There is no tracked and “lumpy” snow to contend with, and “moguls” are unheard of. The short, fat “powder skis” rented by operators are forgiving and easy to turn. People having little “off-piste” experience find they learn very quickly. Again, fitness is a great asset.

“Tree skiing” is a fixture of all backcountry skiing. When the weather is stormy, snowcat skiers and boarders just head for the trees, where the protected snow is softest and deepest and the visibility is best. Skiers with little experience “in the trees” find that the consistent snow and the powder skis not only allow them to “do it”, but that it’s great fun. Many cat skiers prefer tree skiing to the open alpine slopes.

Snowcat skiers in North America tend to ski between mid-January and the end of March. However, excellent skiing and reduced rates can often be found in December and in April (when longer spring days can mean more skiing). While a few cat operators offer day-trips, most provide multi-day full-service packages. These require a booking at least a year in advance, although shoulder-season tours can be booked on much shorter notice. Cancellations also accommodate short-notice bookings, sometimes at a reduced rate.

The amount of skiing done in a day depends on the group. Typically, 9 to 15 runs will be skied for a “total vertical” between 9,000ft. and 16,000 ft. Individual runs vary in vertical drop between about 800 ft and 2000ft. Long cat rides are usually broken up into a number of short “hops” that provide short rests between runs but keep guests active. The lack of any skiing “minimums” allows guides to focus on the needs of their group and on finding the best skiing. There is no need to “rack up the vertical”.

Overseas visitors might consider combining resort skiing with snowcat skiing. For example, visitors to Kicking Horse Resort in Golden BC could break their visit with a 3-day or 4-day tour at nearby Chatter Creek Mountain Lodges. Also, visitors to Whistler-Blackcomb can do cat skiing day-trips with Powder Mountain Catskiing. Many other snowcat operators are located near excellent ski areas.

The Chatter News Web site ( http://powder-skiing.blogspot.com/) provides a client’s view of snowcat skiing at Chatter Creek. This photo journal provides many pictures and descriptions of different aspects of cat skiing and boarding.

In Western Canada, the BC Helicopter & Snowcat Skiing Operators Association ( http://www.bchssoa.com/) lists snowcat skiing tour operators who operate under its stringent safety guidelines.

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The Art of Uphill Skiing Ski touring is a booming sport. More and more skiers want to leave crowded pistes, lift queues and the mogul-fields of so-called off-piste runs to venture deeper into the mountains in search of untracked snow. More and more mountaineers are attracted by journeying on ski through the icy grandeur of the winter alps. In short, there are more and more ski-mountaineers. But to enjoy touring one definitely needs to enjoy the up as well as the down, for on an average tour eighty per cent of the time will be spent going uphill. Undeniably, beginners are often more conscious of sweat and toil than of beauty in the landscape, more aware of aching muscles and sore feet than of mountain magic and, when the skis are at last pointed downhill, it becomes only too evident that rubber legs will no longer respond to the demands being made of them. This is a pity because in all probability it is equipment or technique as much as fitness that is the problem. Good uphill technique is a much-neglected aspect of ski touring, but to develop it you need the right gear as well. Skinning The crux of the matter is skinning. Skins – once made of sealskin, nowadays of nylon (which lasts longer) or mohair (which glides better) or a mix of the two – stick to the base of the ski and have a pile that enables the ski to glide forward over the surface of the snow but prevents it from slipping backwards. It is important that the skin covers as much of the base of the ski as possible; at the very least, the central third of the ski should be covered to the edge. Some skins now come with a trimmer to cut them to size, whatever the shape of the ski. Don't be tempted to use old narrow skins (64 cms) with a modern broad ski; when the terrain becomes steeper, they simply don't work … Combined with a binding which can be clamped down in descent but will release at the heel in ascent, skins make it possible to walk uphill on skis. However, this is where technique comes in, for it is important to glide the ski forward rather than actually walk. It is surprising how many quite experienced tourers skin uphill badly, lifting the ski with every step and leaving a slightly herring-bone track instead of two neat parallel lines. The combined weight of boot, binding and ski on each foot can be as much as 5kg. After 1000 metres of ascent, the skier who lifts 5kg with every step is unlikely to be appreciating the view! Or, as Tilman put it long ago, a pound on your feet is the same as ten on your back. Performed well, however, in a good track and at a sensible pace, skinning can be a rhythmic, almost effortless movement that leaves the mind free to wander, or even to quieten into a trance-like state in which time loses all significance. To skin efficiently, one ski is slid forward in a long but not uncomfortable stride and the weight transferred to it. At this point in a normal walking pace the foot (and so a ski as well) would come off the ground. Instead, allow the boot to come up until it is almost vertical, but still pressing the ski lightly onto the snow, before sliding it forward and past the first ski. The weight should be kept directly over the centre of the ski, with a firm push downwards on steeper gradients to help the skin to grip. The tendency on steep slopes is to lean too far forward, causing the skin to lose traction and before you can say 'head plant' you are in the snow! Modern touring bindings (Fritschi and Silvretta are the current market leaders) have an attachment for giving the heel of the boot a higher platform to rest on, which makes steep ascents easier. Taking shorter strides helps, too; as does placing the sticks behind you for support, with palms of the hands on top of the handles pushing down. But if the skinning still feels difficult or uncomfortably steep, simply put in a track at an easier angle or ask the trail-breaker to do so. Slipping and struggling up a track that is just a few degrees too steep, even if it is more direct, is counter-productive in the long run. Kick-turns A good skinning track winds its way up the mountain as though it belongs there rather than being arbitrarily imposed on the landscape. It gains height gradually and uses natural hollows and flattenings to change direction in smooth, rounded curves. Sooner or later, however, the angle will steepen, the track must needs begin to zig-zag and the skier is faced with performing the most important manoeuvre in up-hill skiing – the kick-turn. Unfortunately, it is a skill that older people and those with stiff hips often have trouble mastering. Nevertheless, as with skinning, good technique, or even just a knowledge of what to aim for, can make life a lot easier. Most skiers will have been taught to kick-turn facing down the hill, but uphill skiers need to do it uphill – not only is it easier, with a loose heel, but not having to contemplate the drop below makes it less scary as well! I like to start with one pole down the slope for support, the other uphill for balance but well to one side out of the way. With both skis at right-angles to the fall-line, lift the uphill ski until it is vertical then turn both boot and ski to replace it on the snow so that the skis point in opposite directions. This is the most strenuous part of the exercise and where flexibility helps. It is best done as a single fluid movement. Drawing the uphill ski back first can help to give it some momentum in swinging forwards and upwards. At this point, with the skis in opposite directions, the closer the boots are to each other and the nearer the two skis are to parallel, the easier the next stage will be. The wider the gap between the boots – and there will be a gap if the two skis are not parallel – the harder it is to crank the lower ski up and round to join its partner in a more natural position. The ideal is to pivot the lower boot around the upper, simultaneously giving the tip of the ski a little flick to bring it up clear of the snow. On steep slopes drop the lower boot slightly downhill before the flick-and-pivot movement. Avoid the temptation to swing the whole ski up-slope – on steep terrain this becomes highly precarious, and on easier slopes it is unnecessarily strenuous. It is very much a matter of 'feel'. Performed correctly, it requires little effort. Some master it in seconds and for them kick-turns hold no terrors. Others find it much harder but it is worth persevering for otherwise every uphill turn will be a stressful and energy-sapping event. Harscheisen When skinning on a hard surface – wind crust or frozen snow, for example – edging should be avoided, for it quickly leads to strenuous side-stepping. Instead, roll ankles and knees slightly outwards, down the hill, so that the skin can be in contact with the snow, rather like cramponing. If the slope is too steep to do this, the answer lies with harscheisen. These devices fit between the boot and the plate of the binding and allow a row of metal teeth to protrude downwards on either side of the ski. When the foot and the plate of the binding are raised the ski can glide forward; when the foot is lowered the teeth bite into the snow like a crampon. (Some harscheisen are fixed to the ski rather than to the binding which makes for greater security but means that the whole ski has to be lifted with every stride.) Harscheisen are not worth wearing all the time or on easy-angled slopes as they reduce glide and restrict the stride; nor are they designed for use on water-ice or rock which can bend the soft metal of the teeth. But on steep slopes of hard snow, frequently encountered in Spring, they are worth their weight in gold for the confidence and security they provide. Like crampons, they are best fitted at the bottom of the slope rather than halfway up, where it is liable to become a stressful performance. Skin Care Looking after your skins is important if they are to function properly. After use, remove them from the skis and fold each end into the middle so that the skin sticks to itself. Hang them up to dry, folded, either inside or from the top of a vertical ski. Never leave them outside in the sun or in a warm room to dry on the base of the ski – the heat can cause the glue to transfer to the ski with disastrous results. It is impossible to remove it totally without a solvent. However, most problems stem from the unpeeling of the skin from the ski. This happens most often when conditions are very wet or very cold. The warmer and drier both skins and skis can be kept, the better they will adhere to each other. It is essential to take trouble over cleaning and drying the base of the ski before applying the skin – admittedly not always easy, if it is snowing hard, for instance. But a skin working loose is at best irritating and at worst dangerous, as the whole party is held up while the problem is sorted out. The usual remedies are adhesive tape wrapped round skin and ski at the tail, quick-acting spray-on glue, or temporarily replacing the whole skin with a spare. Trouble with skins is much less likely to occur if they have an attachment at heel as well as tip. Although more expensive, this type of skin is well worth buying for the security and peace of mind it affords. In cold conditions, if using skins more than once in the day, tuck them inside your jumper or jacket to keep them warm. It makes a surprising difference to the effectiveness of the glue. More often than not, skins start to unpeel not because the glue is inadequate but because the base of the ski was not dry or because of clumsy skinning technique. However, after several weeks' use they will need to be re-glued. Suitable glue can be bought in most ski equipment shops. It should be applied as thinly as possible and then left to dry overnight in a warm room. After the skins have been re-glued a few times it becomes necessary to remove the old glue. One way of doing this is to buy a solvent; another way is to place newspaper over the sticky surface and warm it with an iron. The glue transfers to the paper which can then be peeled off. Another common problem, especially in warm weather after fresh snow, is balling-up on the base of the skin. The ski can no longer glide and there is nothing, but nothing, more exhausting than heaving pounds of snow up the mountain with every step. The remedy is a spray-on solution or a rub-on wax produced by one of the skin manufacturers such as Coltex, Pomoca or Montana; candle wax will do, at a pinch. But for either spray or wax to be effective the skins need to be dried first; better to pre-empt the problem by treating skins the night before or at the start of a tour. Conclusion A combination of good technique and the right equipment, well maintained, takes much of the sting out of climbing on skis. Admittedly, there is still the rucsack on your back and the matter of altitude to contend with, but it is far easier to develop a rhythm on skis than it is walking uphill on foot. All in all, provided you are reasonably mountain fit, and you persuade someone else to break trail in that metre of new powder, there is no reason why long glacier ascents should not be a conscious pleasure, leaving you on col or summit in a fit state to enjoy the descent. Whether you do enjoy the skiing depends on a whole new set of considerations regarding technique and equipment. But that is another story.

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The Road to Expert Skiing
 
by: Jim Safianuk

Imagine yourself cruising down a groomed run carving elegant turns with your new shaped skis. In the distance you see two symbols, a blue square for a left turn and a black diamond for a right turn. Without hesitation you steer to the right. The pitch becomes steeper, the snow is un-groomed, and there are trees, lots of trees. You stop momentarily, pick a line, push off, and tighten your turns as you begin the descent.

Many skiers would have taken the left fork with the gentle groomed slope. Some intermediates reach a plateau in their ability and find it difficult to advance to the next level. This doesn't have to be. The keys to unlocking your true potential lie in your mind and body. When you are physically fit and mentally prepared the goal of becoming an advanced level skier can be realized.

Skiing at an advanced level means being adept at handling varied terrain in different snow conditions on marked trails. The terrain may include steeps, glades, or moguls. Snow conditions might include hard pack, crud, ice, or powder. At this level you need to be able to make quick adjustments to your speed, turn radius and balance to maintain control at all times.

Ski Fitness Level

Advanced level skiing is more demanding on the knees, thighs, hips, abdomen, and back so preseason preparation is the norm. Try to begin your ski fitness program at least two to three months prior to your first day on the slopes. Your routine should include stretching for mobility, strength exercises for staying power, and cardiovascular conditioning for endurance.

The good news is that you don't need a lot of money to finance your program. All you'll need is a mat, free weights, runners, and an hour a day. One approach is to do stretches and strength exercises the first day followed by stretching and cardiovascular conditioning the next day. By alternating your workouts you can reduce the time spent each day and give the different muscle groups a chance to recover.

Stretching

Improved mobility will do more to improve your skiing then you think and it will help protect you from injury. The areas to concentrate on are the back, calves, hamstrings, quads, and shoulders.

A good book on the subject is Stretching by Bob Anderson (Shelter Publications, Inc. 1988). It has specific stretches for downhill skiing, weight training, walking, and running. You may want to include the stretches for weight training in your fall routine and do the downhill stretches during the ski season.

Strength

These exercises will improve your ability to ski short-radius turns through enhanced staying power and impact absorption while minimizing muscle fatigue and soreness. The strength session should include calf raises, partial squats for the quads, and abdominal exercises for the stomach, sides, and back. Include weight training for the arms, chest, and shoulders using dumbbells and barbells.

Rotate through the exercises working one muscle group while the other groups are in the recovery mode. Perform a leg exercise, a weight maneuver, and then an abdominal exercise.

Endurance

This is the ability to perform at a given level for greater periods of time. Endurance is important for those long mogul and glade runs that never seem to end. To improve endurance the focus is on cardiovascular conditioning. Exercise three times a week keeping your heart rate elevated for fifteen to twenty minutes. Good ways to do this are cycling, inline skating, rowing, jogging, or general aerobics. An alternative to running is a brisk, forty-five minute, non-stop walk.

Mind-Set

You won't need a treatise on the latest breakthrough in the psychological aspects of fear to conquer the steeps, glades, and moguls. The old adage, you have nothing to fear but fear itself, applies to skiing. Mental toughness and focus are essential to master your subconscious mind.

Mental Toughness

Being tough mentally will put you in control of your thoughts. You need to tell yourself over and over that you're in charge, not the ski hill. This will help develop the right attitude and keep a lid on you anxieties.

Focus

Focus allows you to break up the run into smaller tasks so you can zoom in on the next two or three turns. The pause, approach, divide and conquer technique should help you pick a line, set the tone, and focus on the immediate.

Pause: Take a moment or two to size up the terrain and pick a line appropriate for your skill level. If you wait too long you will give your subconscious mind a chance to take control. To avoid this anxiety trap, stop, survey the terrain, pick a line, and push off with your poles. This sequence should take between five and ten seconds to complete.

Approach: Develop the correct turn radius early. This should occur within the first three or four turns. This sets the rhythm and gets your legs pumping. You want to be moving at a constant speed with good balance over your skis.

Divide and Conquer: This method will break up a difficult run into manageable tasks. After the approach always look two or three turns ahead if you are on the steeps, two or three bumps ahead if you are in a mogul field, or two or three trees ahead if you are on a glade run. Looking ahead will allow you to quickly alter your course for any unusual conditions. This technique takes practice to learn, but once mastered, will prove invaluable.

Summing Up

The mind and body have to work in unison to ski black diamond runs safely and effectively. Condition your body in the preseason for peak performance on the slopes. To ski strong, you have to be strong. In addition, strive to master the mind techniques in stages. You need to be mentally tough and focused to keep your anxieties in check.

Make an effort to ski thirty percent of all runs on more difficult terrain with an even split between steeps, glades, and moguls. You will know when you have reached an expert level because you will be the one in the descent of that forty degree, un-groomed, glade run.

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The Ultimate Skiing Experience.
 
by: Lachlan Brown

For downhill skiers, “powder snow” provides the ultimate skiing experience. For most skiers however, good powder skiing is a short-lived and infrequent event. Ski areas in some geographic areas enjoy fairly frequent “powder days” but in most areas, powder days are rare and the dryness and depth of snow is often marginal.

In most ski areas too, when powder snow does occur, it is only a matter of hours before it is completely "tracked out”, lumped up and beaten down. Only those few early birds that ride the first chairs in the morning get the ultimate run of the day, in deep, consistent, smooth, untracked snow.

For years, diehard powder snow enthusiasts have headed for the backcountry to “ski the powder” among remote alpine peaks, far from crowded ski areas. Many enjoy the peace and quiet of ski touring and move and ski at a pace governed by their own physical fitness.

Others who may be less ambitious or have less time, but who have ample disposable funds, have headed for the backcountry in helicopters. For about $1000 per day or more, heli-operators offer small groups of proficient skiers 5 to 7 days of guided skiing on huge pristine slopes, high in the mountains. Guests stay in comfortable lodges and spend their days being shuttled back and forth with their guides, with each run on a fresh untracked slope. Heli skiing has its problems. There are “down days” when storms make flying impossible and there is always the inherent risk of all backcountry skiing: avalanche.

Avalanche risk depends on many factors. All reputable backcountry operators provide highly qualified guides who choose areas for skiing and a safe route down the hill. On days of poor weather or unstable snow, guides may avoid alpine areas and restrict their groups to "skiing the trees”. Tree skiing is a fixture of all mechanized backcountry skiing and is preferred by some skiers to the more open “alpine” skiing.

In recent years, a new type of mechanized backcountry ski operator has emerged. Snowcat skiing operators use snowcats to transport skiers and snowboarders into backcountry regions. Snowcats are fitted with a large cab that seats clients in a warm, comfortable environment. A snowcat typically carries a group of 12 clients, two guides and a driver.

Of course, snowcats are much slower than helicopters. They are also much less expensive and guests can expect to pay between $500 and $600 a day, including transportation, lodging, meals, and guiding. As slow as snowcats may be, most clients will wear themselves out every day and get just as much skiing as their group can handle.

The great advantage of cat skiing is that “down” days almost never occur. Clients ski every day and bad weather can often mean extra-good snow. Cat skiing is more relaxed and “laid back” than heli skiing as there is no need to share equipment between groups or to maximize equipment usage. Cat skiing is very “client-friendly”. Each group has a dedicated machine and it moves at the group’s pleasure. Weaker skiers can feel at ease and not “pushed”.

Snowcats provide a relatively quiet, comfortable, warm and relaxed environment in which the trip back up the hill can be almost as much fun as the run down. Guests can “unbutton”, dry out, warm up, converse and browse on sandwiches, cookies, cake and drinks. If a guest gets tired, it’s easy to “sit out” a run and ride down to the next pickup with the cat driver.

Snowcat skiing is more restricted geographically than heli skiing. However, that has a drawback. Since they can operate in a larger area, heli-operators may sometimes be less familiar with changing snow conditions and risk factors than snowcat operators who work in a more restricted area.

Most snowcat operators have ample terrain to consistently provide good snow, even in periods of drought, and to ensure that clients exhaust themselves every day. Chatter Creek Mountain Lodges Ltd. operates in a 95 sq. km area and ski between the elevations of 5400ft and 9500 ft. Monashee Powder Adventures advertises an area of 66 sq. km and operate between the elevations of 7800 ft and 3,000 ft.. Baldface Lodge uses over 140 sq km. Guests need not worry about running out of terrain!

Snowcat skiing provides a wonderful holiday for intermediate and advanced skiers alike. Individuals, family groups, groups of friends, business associates can have a “trip to remember”. Operators with remote lodges offer a real “backcountry” experience, usually with good food and very comfortable accommodations.

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