It is not easy to function well on the slopes, even less on the mountain outside of it. And it is that if it is the first time that you face virgin powder snow, it will be better that you take note of some good tips. Skiing is an entertaining sport that takes on a new dimension when you change the pitch and it is more difficult than it seems. However, keeping in mind certain rules and recommendations can help you a lot:
1. Safety first
On a slope we have the help of other people such as skiers or pisteros, but outside of it you will find yourself alone. It is very important to know the level you have and act accordingly. The first thing is to choose the terrain through which the skier will descend and check its condition to avoid avalanches, as well as the technical material that is available. Be that as it may, it is very important to act decisively to overcome and overcome each obstacle. If you act out of fear off the track, it is preferable to leave.
2. Different possibilities of skis
There are several possibilities, although as a general rule they should be longer and wider to be able to function better. It may happen that the surface has a hard bottom, it is crusty snow or there is a large amount of snow and we do not notice the bottom. For each particular case it is possible to use different types of skis. If there are doubts about it, just ask professionals to buy the most successful equipment, you have to be advised. To do this, you must conveniently choose the length of the skis and their width, especially in the skate area, in addition to knowing how to adjust them properly. Fortunately, the material has evolved a lot over time and adapts to each skier.
3. The speed must be adequate
Speed is a very important factor to take into account so that the skis can behave properly and act in different curves. It is convenient to remember something, the higher the speed, the less chance of sinking. The same happens with respect to the terrain, because the flatter it is, the less we will float. In these cases, in order not to sink and have to “paddle”, it is important to ski at the right speed. Even if you are not an experienced skier, you should find the right speed so as not to sink but to feel that you control the skis, and not they control you.
4. The technique must be adapted
Skiing in the mountains in these circumstances requires a change of technique. It is important to maintain a balance and go centered on the skis, or very slightly leaning back if the snow is virgin light. One of the most popular tips is that our reference position is the center of the ski, neither further back nor further forward. The correct thing is to go with the body straight and in a flexed position, so that the skis do not sink. Just as there are different skis, there are different skiing techniques: bringing your feet closer together, taking advantage of external forces so as not to push, etc.
5. Know how to use the sticks in powder snow
It is important to keep them in sync so that the balance and rhythm is right. When one of the sticks leans forward, the other leans back, but both should be at the same angle and the hands should be roughly the same level. Obviously, the result is not perfect at every turn, but it is the thought that counts.
6. Patience, fundamental requirement
In skiing it is necessary to have patience and even more so when it is carried out off-piste. In these cases, the reaction time is slower and it is recommended not to force turns. The rhythm must be regular and the body must anticipate the movements to create the best possible balance.
7. Attitude to adapt to the new challenge
The turns will never be perfect and our body will be the one in charge of rebalancing the situation, since the imbalance will be constant. Now, you have to have a good attitude and know how to adapt to the situation in order to enjoy it. The material has to be the right one, but it takes some practice and taking into account some specific techniques to practice this sport with pleasure.
A very interesting video to see these tips put into practice on the ground.
