Telemark skiing is a unique and challenging discipline that requires precise technique and control. One of the most critical elements of telemark skiing is the lead change, which involves smoothly transitioning from one turn to the next while maintaining balance and control. In this guide, we will provide detailed techniques and strategies for mastering the lead change in telemark skiing, along with effective drills to improve your turns and avoid common mistakes.
What is the Importance of Timing and Positioning in Telemark Skiing?
Proper timing and positioning are crucial for executing a successful lead change in telemark skiing. The lead change should occur at the apex of the turn, when both skis are facing downhill. This ensures a smooth transition and maintains rhythm and flow. Additionally, maintaining a weight distribution of more than 70% on the front leg, especially during the lead change, helps to load the front ski and engage the edge effectively. Keeping a strong telemark stance with equal weight on both skis, and using the rear foot’s little toe edge to create the arc of the turn, are also essential for maintaining balance and control during the lead change.
What are the Effective Drills to Improve Telemark Skiing Lead Change?
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Tele J-Turns: Practice J-turns by going straight down the hill in tele-stance, then turning right or left back up the hill. This drill helps develop muscle memory for the lead change.
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Mono-Mark: Perform linked turns without a lead change, alternating between telemark and alpine stances. This exercise helps develop a solid stance and rear foot pressure.
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Tele Shuffles: Practice smoothly rising and falling while changing leads without turning. This drill improves the transition between turns and helps maintain rhythm.
How to Avoid ‘Fake-a-Marking’ in Telemark Skiing?
‘Fake-a-marking’ is a common issue in telemark skiing, where the skier appears to be in a telemark stance but is not truly engaged with the rear ski. To avoid this, it’s essential to maintain a proper telemark stance with equal weight on both skis. Actively engaging the rear foot by using the little toe edge to create the arc of the turn is also crucial. Additionally, it’s recommended to start practicing on smooth, wide, and gentle terrain to build confidence in your telemark stance and lead change, before moving to more challenging slopes.
What are the Key Techniques for Mastering the Lead Change in Telemark Skiing?
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Timing: The lead change should occur at the apex of the turn, when both skis are facing downhill.
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Weight Distribution: Aim for a weight distribution of more than 70% on the front leg, especially during the lead change.
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Body Positioning: Maintain a strong telemark stance with equal weight on both skis, and use the rear foot’s little toe edge to create the arc of the turn.
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Drills for Improvement: Practice Tele J-Turns, Mono-Mark, and Tele Shuffles to develop muscle memory and improve your lead change.
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Avoiding ‘Fake-a-Marking’: Ensure a proper telemark stance with active rear foot engagement, and start on smooth terrain to build confidence.
By mastering these techniques and strategies, you can take your telemark skiing to the next level and execute smooth, flowing lead changes with confidence.