Comprehensive Guide to Learning Freestyle Ski Tricks: Essential Drills and Techniques for 360s and Jumps

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Introduction

Freestyle skiing is an exhilarating and challenging discipline that requires a combination of skill, practice, and patience. This guide focuses on the essential drills and techniques for learning freestyle ski tricks, specifically 360s and jumps, while emphasizing safety and control.

What are the Essential Drills for Learning Freestyle Ski Tricks?

Ski Freestyle Tricks Lernen

  1. Four-Point Landing Drill
  2. Practice landing with all four points of your skis (tips and tails) simultaneously to improve balance and control.

  3. Start with small jumps and gradually increase the height as you become more comfortable.

  4. Springing and Ollie Techniques

  5. Springing: Compress your body downwards and then jump upwards to create momentum. Tuck your knees to your chest for aerodynamic purposes and balance upon landing.

  6. Ollie: Lean forward, throw your weight backward, and then forward again to use the spring from your skis to catapult yourself into the air. Tuck your body for balance upon landing.

  7. Pop and Safety Grab Drill

  8. Pop: Flex your ankles, knees, and hips as you approach the jump, then release the pressure by extending your ankles, knees, and hips to take control of the jump.

  9. Safety Grab: Reach under your boot and grab the outside edge and base of your ski to maintain control and style.

  10. 360 Drill

  11. Winding-Up: Rotate your shoulders in the opposite direction you want to spin before taking off.
  12. Pop and Rotate: Pop off the jump, bring your shoulders square to the landing, and let your legs, hips, shoulders, and head rotate in a fluid motion.

What Safety Measures should be Taken for Jumping?

  1. Start Small: Begin with low-consequence jumps and gradually increase the size as you gain confidence and control.
  2. Soft Snow: Practice on soft snow (fresh or slush) to reduce the impact of falls.
  3. Film Yourself: Have a friend film you to identify areas for improvement.
  4. Get Feedback: Work with an experienced instructor or friend to receive in-depth feedback on your technique.

How to Maintain Control During Tricks?

  1. Body Position: Keep your body straight and centered over your skis to maintain balance and control.
  2. Weight Distribution: Shift your weight to control your rotation and direction.
  3. Arm Position: Keep your arms out beside you to maintain stability and balance.

Additional Tips and Guidelines

  • Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to improving your freestyle skiing skills.
  • Focus on Fundamentals: Master the basics before moving on to more advanced tricks.
  • Stay Relaxed: Tension can throw you off balance; stay relaxed and focused to maintain control.

Reference Links

  1. 10 Freestyle Ski Drills for Beginner to Advanced Skiers – YouTube

  3. Ski & Snowboard Freestyle Tricks Guide – Alltracks Academy

  4. Getting Air: A Beginners’ Guide to Ski and Snowboard Freestyle Tricks

  5. Easy Ski Tricks For Beginners – Mpora

  6. https://mpora.com/skiing/ski-tricks-for-beginners/

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