Speed skiing is an extreme sport that is exhilarating and fun to do. However, if done improperly, it can also be very dangerous, as it often involves speeds that can reach up to 200kph. As such, it is important to control your speed when skiing in order to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Luckily, there are several different techniques and strategies you can use to keep your speed in check.
Check Your Stance
The position of your body plays an important role in how fast you can ski. Keeping your body upright and your skis close together will help reduce your speed, while tilting them further apart or leaning forward will increase it. Pay attention to your posture and adjust it accordingly to maintain a comfortable speed.
Use the Terrain to Your Advantage
Ski slopes can be broken down into sections, each with its own type of terrain. Depending on which terrain type you are skiing on, you may be able to use it to slow down your speed. For example, if you are skiing on a slope that has a lot of bumps, using the bumps as jumps can help reduce your speed. Similarly, when skiing on a flat surface, edging your skis with better grip will help reduce your speed.
Pick the Right Gear
Choosing the right gear for speed skiing is essential to controlling your speed. Your choice of skis, bindings, and boots will all impact how fast you can go. Choose skis that are designed for speed skiing, as these will allow you to reach higher speeds. Similarly, look for bindings and boots that provide good support and stability, as this will help keep your speed in check.
Use Breaks and Slowing Techniques
If you find yourself skiing faster than desired, there are a few techniques you can use to reduce your speed. One technique is to “dog-bone” or “plow” your skis by bringing your feet together and pointing your skis straight ahead. This will cause you to slow down significantly. Alternatively, you can also use ice skating breaks, as this will cause you to come to a complete stop. Finally, you can also make angled turns by leaning your body into the turn in order to slow yourself down.
Know Your Limits
Above all, it is important to know your limits and ski within them. Skiing too fast can be dangerous, so make sure that you are skiing within a speed that you are comfortable with. If you find yourself going too fast, or if you start to feel out of control, it is important to slow down immediately. Don`t push your body past its limits as this can lead to serious injury.
Control your speed skiing and stay safe by using proper technique, the right gear, and knowing your limits. This will help ensure you have an enjoyable and safe skiing experience.
Happy skiing!