How to Make Basic Parallel Turns on Steep Terrain

How to Perform Basic Parallel Turns on Steep Terrain

Skiing parallel turns on steep slopes can feel intimidating at first, but with the right technique and mindset, you can keep your skis aligned and your turns smooth. The key is to maintain balance and control without stiffening up or letting your skis drift apart.

Step 1: Set Your Stance and Balance

Start by standing with your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed over both skis. On steep terrain, lean gently into the hill to stay balanced and avoid falling backward. Think of your body as a stack of blocks—keep your hips over your feet and your upper body quiet.

Step 2: Initiate the Turn with Your Legs

Begin turning by gently rolling your knees and ankles in the direction you want to go. Keep both skis parallel and avoid opening up your legs. A good mental cue is to imagine your skis are glued together, sliding smoothly side-by-side.

Step 3: Engage Your Edges

As you start the turn, press down on the edges of your skis to grip the snow. On steep slopes, this edge pressure is crucial for control. Don’t rely on skidding to slow down; instead, use your edges to carve the turn.

Step 4: Shift Your Weight Gradually

Move your weight progressively from the downhill ski to the new downhill ski as you transition between turns. Keep your upper body facing slightly downhill and your hands forward to help maintain balance.

Step 5: Complete the Turn and Prepare for the Next

Finish the turn by flattening your skis briefly before starting the next turn. This pause allows you to reset your balance and edge pressure. Keep your movements smooth and controlled.

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Mental Cue: “Skis Together, Lean In”

Remind yourself that your skis stay parallel and close, and that leaning slightly into the hill helps maintain balance and edge grip.

Additional Tips

• Practice on moderate slopes before moving to steeper terrain.
• Use poles for rhythm and balance.
• Keep your upper body stable and avoid twisting.

For more detailed techniques on parallel turns, check out Turn Lab’s Intermediate Parallel Turns and Edge Control Drills.

With patience and practice, you’ll find basic parallel turns on steep terrain become smoother and more confident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between parallel turns and snowplow turns on steep terrain?

Parallel turns keep both skis aligned side-by-side throughout the turn, offering better speed control and smoother transitions, while snowplow turns involve a wedge shape and are less efficient on steep slopes.

How do I maintain balance during parallel turns on steep terrain?

Focus on keeping your weight centered over the skis, slightly leaning downhill, and use your edges actively to grip the snow. Avoid leaning back or stiffening up.

Is it okay to slow down by skidding on steep slopes when doing parallel turns?

Yes, controlled skidding can help manage speed, but aim to keep your skis parallel and use edging to maintain control rather than relying solely on skidding.