Steeps Progression Drill for Confident Control on Steep Terrain

When it comes to steep terrain, confidence and control don’t come from rushing. The Steeps Progression Drill is designed to help you build both by gradually increasing your commitment to the fall line, step by step.

Start on a moderate black run where you can focus on form without the pressure of extreme steepness. Begin by making rounded turns with full edge engagement at the end of each turn. You want to feel solid grip on the snow and maintain balance over your skis. This stage is about controlling speed and setting a rhythm. Aim for about 5 to 10 turns before moving on.

Next, shift your turns to be more direct. Spend more time pointing down the fall line between turns instead of rounding out wide. This increases your speed naturally, so focus on staying balanced and centered over your skis. The goal here is to get comfortable with the feeling of moving more aggressively downhill without losing control.

Once you’re comfortable with that, add a pole plant just before each turn. The pole touch isn’t just a formality—it should pull your body forward and down the hill, helping you commit to the turn and maintain good upper body position. Think of it as a gentle lead-in that sets the tone for the rest of the turn.

Finally, work on quick edge-to-edge transitions. The faster you can change edges, the less time you spend in the neutral zone where you pick up unwanted speed. This part takes practice—start slow and focus on smooth, deliberate movements. Over time, your transitions will become quicker and more confident.

Common mistakes include leaning back, which reduces edge grip, and rushing through turns without full commitment, which can cause skidding or loss of control. Keep your weight forward and stay engaged with the snow.

Try to do this drill regularly, focusing on smooth, controlled turns rather than speed. Using tools like Turn Lab can help you analyze your technique and track improvements over time.

For more on edge control and turn shape, check out the related Edge Control Drill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why start on a moderate black run for this drill?

Starting on a moderate black run allows you to focus on technique without being overwhelmed by extreme steepness. It sets a solid foundation before moving to more challenging terrain.

How many repetitions should I do for each step?

Aim for 5 to 10 smooth, controlled turns per step before progressing. Quality matters more than quantity—focus on feeling balanced and in control.

What’s the main purpose of the pole plant in this drill?

The pole plant helps initiate the turn by pulling your body forward and downhill, encouraging commitment and better timing on steep terrain.