Get Forward

"Get Forward."  This is probably the most given piece of 'instruction' ever doled out by a ski instructor.

And with good reason, not being in a 'forward' position on one's skis is the single most common flaw seen on the hill. Very few skiers ever learn to stand correctly on their equipment.

There are a number of reasons for the failure to accomplish this position; one is that it is seldom taught to complete understanding, another is that it's really a little scary at first to learn it and do it consistently.  But the most basic reason is that very few skiers truly know just where forward or forward enough really is.

Here are a couple of thoughts that should help make a difference.

Look at your ski, in the area under the center of the binding. All ski manufacturers put a mark on the top skin or side wall of the ski to mark it's center. This to facilitate proper placement of the binding. We can use it too. "Forward" or forward enough will be when your hips are directly over that mark or, better yet, slightly ahead of it.  Another look at it is to stand (statically), balancing on one foot. Using no poles for support keep flexing your shin into the front of your boot until you are able to balance solidly one foot and be able to shift alternately from foot to foot with out making adjustments. In fact, while instructed to be forward, we are simply moving into balance. It is the foundation of all expert skiers.

The hard part will be staying in that balanced stance while sliding down the hill.

Submitted by Bill Austin
PSIA Level III Alpine, PSIA Level II Telmark, USSA Coach. 
Want Bill's instruction?  Go to the Ski School Desk at Okemo, or call 802-228-4041 and request Bill as the instructor for your next lesson.  Private lessons by request.

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