Skiing

Telemark skiing is a turning technique in which the skier's heel is kept off the ski, allowing for a greater knee bend during turns. In this method, there is a continuous, fluid movement where one knee is bent and lowered to the snow, while the other leg remains straight. Due to its high stability and strong push against backward movements, it allows skiers to make wide, natural turns on downhill slopes and flat terrain. Telemark skiing demands a high level of balance and stability, as the skier must control the free heel while maintaining a balanced rhythm and smooth, unforced travel during the turns.

Heliskiing is an exciting way to ski where a helicopter takes people to the top of remote mountains that regular ski lifts cannot reach. Once dropped off, skiers get to glide down through fresh, untouched snow in beautiful, wild areas far from busy ski resorts. This activity is perfect for adventure lovers who want to experience skiing in unique and challenging places. Because it takes place in isolated and sometimes risky terrain, strong skiing skills are needed, and experienced guides often accompany participants to ensure safety. It is a thrilling way to enjoy nature and skiing at the same time.

Skibobbing is a fun winter sport where a person rides a special bike-like device on snow. Instead of wheels, the skibob has skis, and the rider sits on a seat while steering with handlebars. The handlebars are used to control direction and balance while riding downhill. It is a thrilling way to enjoy the slopes, whether for fun or in competition. Skibobbing requires balance and control to handle the terrain and maintain speed, but once mastered, it is a great way to experience the winter outdoors.

Nordic skiing is a type of skiing that includes both cross-country skiing and ski jumping. It involves using skis where the heel is not fixed to the ski, allowing for a more natural gliding motion across snow-covered terrain. Skiers move across flatter ground or gentle slopes, using their own strength to push forward. Nordic skiing can be done for recreation or in competition, with events ranging from endurance races to jumps. The sport requires good stamina, coordination, and technique to handle the various conditions of the terrain and maintain speed.

Extreme skiing is a type of skiing that involves navigating difficult and dangerous terrain, often at high speeds. Skiers tackle steep slopes, deep snow, rocky areas, or even cliffs, pushing their limits and performing risky stunts or jumps. This sport is meant for experienced skiers who are skilled at handling challenging conditions. Extreme skiing requires strength, courage, and excellent control over skis, as well as quick decision-making to avoid obstacles and stay safe while taking on the thrill of the mountains.

Backcountry skiing is a type of skiing that takes place outside of the marked trails or ski resorts, typically in remote, untouched areas. Skiers navigate natural terrain, such as forests, open slopes, and mountains, often relying on their own strength to move uphill using special equipment that helps grip the snow. The sport offers a more adventurous and quieter experience compared to resort skiing, but it also requires good knowledge of safety, navigation, and avalanche risks. Backcountry skiing demands skill, endurance, and preparation for unpredictable conditions.

Parallel skiing is a technique where skiers keep their skis side by side, parallel to each other, while turning down the slopes. This method is typically used by beginners and intermediate skiers because it provides better control and balance compared to snowplowing, where the skis are angled inward. In parallel skiing, the skier shifts their weight and adjusts their body position to make smooth turns, allowing for a more efficient and comfortable ride down the hill. It is an essential skill for progressing to more advanced skiing techniques.

Snowplow is a skiing technique where the skier points the tips of the skis toward each other, forming a wedge shape, with the backs of the skis spread apart. This position helps slow down the skier and maintain control, especially on gentle slopes. It is a basic skill often taught to beginners, as it provides stability and balance while learning to navigate the hill. By adjusting the size of the wedge, the skier can control speed and make turns more easily. Snowplowing is a key step in developing more advanced skiing techniques.

Para cross-country skiing is a type of cross-country skiing adapted for athletes with physical disabilities. The sport uses specialized equipment, such as sit-skis or skis with adaptive poles, to help athletes move across snow-covered terrain. Para cross-country skiing events are similar to traditional cross-country skiing but are designed to accommodate different levels of ability. Athletes race on flat or gently sloping trails, and the sport requires strength, stamina, and coordination. It is a popular competitive and recreational activity, offering a way for athletes with disabilities to experience the thrill of skiing.

Para alpine skiing is a type of alpine skiing adapted for athletes with physical disabilities. The sport uses specialized equipment, such as sit-skis or skis with additional supports, to help athletes navigate downhill slopes. Just like in traditional alpine skiing, athletes race on marked courses that include posts to weave through, and they must maintain balance and control while turning and changing direction. Para alpine skiing includes different events that require strength, skill, and coordination. It allows athletes with disabilities to enjoy the excitement of skiing in a competitive or recreational setting.

Para Nordic skiing is a type of Nordic skiing adapted for athletes with physical disabilities. The sport includes both cross-country skiing and biathlon events and uses specialized equipment, such as sit-skis or adaptive skis with poles, to help athletes move across snow-covered terrain. Athletes use their upper body strength and coordination to glide on flat or gently sloping trails. Para Nordic skiing is a competitive and recreational activity that requires strength, endurance, and technique, offering athletes with disabilities the chance to experience the challenges and excitement of skiing.

A parallel turn is a skiing technique where the skier keeps both skis side by side, parallel to each other, while turning down the slope. To perform a parallel turn, the skier shifts their weight onto one ski while the other ski follows in the same direction. This technique allows for smoother and more controlled turns, making it easier to navigate down the slope. It is a key skill for intermediate skiers and helps with maintaining balance, speed, and stability while skiing.

A jump turn is a skiing technique where the skier quickly changes direction while in the air, typically during a jump. To perform this move, the skier launches off a bump or jump, then uses their body and skis to rotate and face a new direction before landing. This technique requires strong control, timing, and balance, as the skier must make the turn mid-air while preparing for a smooth landing. Jump turns are often used in more advanced skiing, especially when navigating obstacles or steep terrain.

A stem turn is a basic skiing technique where the skier turns by pushing their heels outward and bringing their toes inward, creating a wedge shape with the skis. This position helps control speed and makes it easier to turn, especially on gentle slopes. The skier shifts weight to one ski to guide the turn, gradually bringing both skis back into a parallel position as they gain more control. The stem turn is often taught to beginners as a way to develop balance and learn how to navigate downhill safely.

A pole plant is a technique in skiing where the skier taps their ski pole onto the snow to help with balance and timing during turns. The pole is placed ahead and slightly to the side of the skier, providing support as they shift their weight and turn. This action helps the skier maintain rhythm and control while skiing, especially on steeper terrain. A proper pole plant can also help the skier anticipate the next movement and make smoother, more precise turns. It is an important skill for improving overall skiing technique.