Start the New Turn by Releasing Edge Pressure, Not Pushing

What This Cue Means

When you’re working on basic parallel turns, one of the trickiest parts is getting the timing and feel right for starting each new turn. The cue “Start the new turn by releasing edge pressure, not by pushing. Let gravity help” is a practical way to smooth out that transition.

What does it mean to release edge pressure? Imagine your skis are gripping the snow firmly at the end of a turn. To start the next turn, instead of pushing down or forcing your skis to change direction, you slightly ease off that grip. This unweighting or “pressure release” lets your skis become more free to pivot. Gravity then naturally pulls you downhill, guiding your skis into the new turn arc without you having to muscle it.

When to Use It

When done right, this feels like a gentle lightening under your feet. You’re not pressing hard into the snow to make the skis turn; instead, you’re easing off just enough so the skis can roll onto their new edges smoothly. The movement is fluid and less jerky, which helps maintain balance and rhythm.

How to Practice

A common mistake is trying to start the turn by pushing aggressively on the new outside ski. This can cause the skis to skid or catch unexpectedly, making the turn feel forced and unstable. Pushing too soon also tends to lock your body position, reducing your ability to adjust dynamically as the turn unfolds.

Use this cue every time you transition between turns, especially when you want to keep your speed controlled and your movements efficient. It’s a subtle shift in how you think about initiating the turn — from “pushing” to “releasing” — but it makes a big difference.

For more on refining your parallel turns, check out the basic parallel turns skill page and related cues like “Engage edges progressively” and “Keep your upper body quiet.” Turn Lab emphasizes this cue as a foundational step toward smoother, more confident skiing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I release edge pressure instead of pushing to start a turn?

Releasing edge pressure lets your skis unweight and pivot more easily, allowing gravity to initiate the turn smoothly. Pushing too early can cause stiffness and resistance, making turns jerky.

How do I know if I’m releasing edge pressure correctly?

You’ll feel your skis lighten slightly underfoot as you transition, with less grip on the snow before edging into the new turn. The movement feels smooth rather than forced.

Can this cue help with controlling speed during parallel turns?

Yes. By releasing edge pressure first, you avoid abrupt forces that can cause skidding. This control helps you manage speed more naturally through the turn shape.