Coaching session 2: Mastering parallels

I've been asked to submit a post related to bridging the gap between 'plough parallel' and 'parallel' turns. I will start by clarifying the terminology - the first term (plough parallel) describes a turn which starts by rotating the legs and feet to create a wedge between the skis, but finishes with both skis pointing in the same direction. The second term (parallel) refers to a turn where both skis point the same way and turn at the same rate throughout the entire manoeuvre.

For most people the plough parallel turn is the best stepping stone between snowplough and parallel turns.... hence it's name! But, "how do I make the transformation into true parallel skiing" I hear you ask!

Firstly, think about the physics of say a bike, going round a corner reasonably quickly - the rider has learned to lean the bike over in order to stay in balance. This probably happens naturally for most of you. Now cast your mind back to riding a bike with stabilisers, to help with those first shaky slow speed attempts at balancing. In skiing, this compares to snowplough or early plough parallel turns, where you are relying on the foot/leg on the inside of the curve, to stabilise you.

In order to remove the stabilisers we need to first become confident at allowing the the skis to slide quicker, whilst also relaxing into the turns . This extra bit of speed will help generate more force against your 'outside' ski as it changes direction and you will soon be able to balance against it without relying on the inside 'stabiliser'......... as Yoda would say "feel the force"!

The more you balance and settle over the outer ski in a turn the more you can start to 'soften' the opposite leg and slide the ski in parallel to match the outer one. Initially this may only happen at the very end of each turn, but as you build your confidence, the skis will remain parallel for a longer section of the curve. Don't worry if it feels easier turning in one direction - most people have a less dominant side which usually requires more balance training!

Be more active earlier in the turn by pressing the outer ski into the snow, but don't be tempted to 'twist' at the start - simply squeeze the big toe edge into the snow and feel how the ski reacts and turns!