Pole Position

When holding the pole, think of it as a little bird. Don't kill it, so grip it gently. Use the thumb and the index finger to grip it firmly, while the bottom three finger are looser so the pole and pendulum in the hand. Practice this technique before going on the slope. The common misconception is that the pole is used for planting. The word "plant" is a misnomer. If the pole is actually planted every time, you would have to slam it into the ground with a strong grip. This strong grip will make it necessary to use an arm movement. Try gently kissing the ground with the pole tip. This technique is especially helpful when the terrain is groomed.

The pole is used in conjunction with the rising motion of the crossover. As the uphill leg is straightened and the body rises toward the new turn center, the pole can be swung using only the wrist. As extension occurs, enough room is made for the pole to come forward. When the top of your rise is reached, that is when the pole is gently touched. The pole tip touches on the ground near the tip of the ski or further down the hill as the terrain steepens. It is imperative that the arm position doesn't change. In fact, it rarely changes. Hold the hands out like holding a tray. If you drop your hands, a proper pole touch cannot be achieved. The magic word here is wrist action.

Alpine Skiing School section in english version of WWW.SKI.BG is based on
"A Guide To Becoming An Expert: From First Time To A Lifetime"
by John Mukavitz Copyright © 1998