Match and Glide Drill - Skiing Drill for Medium Skiers

Overview

Focus on the matching phase by holding it longer.

This drill is rated for medium-level skiers. This drill refines an existing skill. Make sure you have a solid foundation before adding this level of challenge.

What You Need

• Terrain: groomed green, groomed blue
• Equipment: Standard ski setup, properly fitted boots
• Time: 15-20 minutes of focused practice
• Conditions: Decent visibility, not too crowded

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start a wedge turn as normal
2. As you come across the fall line, match your skis
3. Hold the parallel position and glide for 3 seconds
4. Begin the next turn with a small wedge
5. Repeat, gradually reducing the wedge phase

What to Feel For

The right sensation during this drill is controlled and deliberate. You should feel like you are choosing each movement, not reacting to the terrain. If you feel rushed or off-balance, slow down or move to easier terrain.

Pay attention to where you feel pressure under your feet. This feedback tells you whether your weight is in the right place. The goal is consistent, predictable pressure that you can adjust intentionally.

Common Mistakes

Going too fast. Speed makes everything harder to feel and correct. This drill works best at a pace where you have time to think about what your body is doing.

Practicing when tired. Fatigue degrades your movement patterns. Better to do 15 focused minutes than 45 sloppy minutes. When your form starts falling apart, take a break or call it a day.

Skipping the easy terrain. Practice on slopes that feel almost too easy. The point is building the movement pattern, not testing your limits. Challenge comes later, after the pattern is solid.

Progression

Once this drill feels natural and repeatable on easy terrain:

1. Try it on slightly steeper terrain
2. Increase your speed gradually
3. Link it with other movements
4. Practice in varied snow conditions

Related Skills

This drill develops Wedge Christie, which is part of Turn Lab’s Medium-level skill progression. Building a strong practice habit with drills like this accelerates your overall development.

For more drills at this level, explore the drills section.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Match and Glide Drill drill?

Focus on the matching phase by holding it longer. It targets wedge christie and is designed for medium level skiers.

How many times should I practice Match and Glide Drill?

Do 5-10 repetitions per run, for 3-5 runs per session. Quality matters more than quantity. Stop when you notice your form deteriorating or your attention wandering.

What terrain is best for the Match and Glide Drill drill?

Practice on groomed green, groomed blue. The terrain should feel easy enough that you can focus entirely on the drill movement rather than navigating the slope.