"Watershed" movements in sports are those critical skills that unlock access to performance and depth of opportunity. And classic skiing is no different. With so many fundamentals happening in harmony with one another, it can be tricky to pull apart the most significant moment in a diagonal stride. For us - both as coaches and skiers?
Being able to glide on one ski at a time was our gateway to performance skiing.
With that, let's get to it.
ban the kickstand
The Goal Of The Glide.
There are lots of ways to enjoy our sport, but if you are interested in skiing faster, finding efficiency, more glide AND fun - you should only be on ONE ski at a time. Here’s a few drills to help you find this ideal position so you can ditch the “kickstand” and unleash new skiing experiences.
push like a pro, yo.
The Lift.
Keep it simple. This isn’t a big movement, it is simply lifting the foot off the snow. Practice this movement repeatedly on flat, solid surfaces to find comfort with your balance.
ban the kickstand
The Flex.
Once your weight is off the “back” leg, 100% of your weight is now on the opposite leg. Start to play with flexion on the standing leg to feel better balance and control while your ankle AND knee are soft. You should feel your weight on the ball of your foot.
👉🏻 It is OK to practice this movement with the other ski in contact with snow. Once you're feeling comfortable, you can start to lift the opposite leg.
ban the kickstand
The Blend.
After steps 1 and 2, it’s time to start playing around with duration. A successful glide phase can be as long as terrain and speed dictate. Lift the back leg, keep the other leg flexed, try to stay in that position for as long as possible and begin to incorporate some arm swing.
ban the kickstand
The Extra Things.
Our ultimate goal is to move forward, UP the trail. As you gain confidence lifting your foot start to focus on the entire leg. Specifically, using the glute to lift the back of the knee to the sky. Why does this matter?
> There is no soccer ball. Being forward with your COM (center of mass) flexed and low at the ankles, the extended back leg is really a byproduct - or effect - of being forward. It is acting as a counterbalance. And if that leg is hanging UNDER your hips, it keeps pressure on your heels and drags you down/back.
> This position sets you up for a BOMBER kick. Your COM is moving forward and your gliding leg is flexed - this is the ultimate position for maximum compression of the ski into the snow - aka - you fast AF.
the closer What We're Thinking About
That in classic striding, finding that single-legged gliding position is really the golden ticket to unlocking the love (obsession?) with classic skiing. Take your time finding the balance - and sometimes - work that is done in the gym or over the summer will help deliver that balanced position and comfort you need when the snow flies.
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