18. Position for Downhill Running

Begin by practising on gentle slopes, with a gradual change of gradient, and then yon will be able to tackle steeper slopes. Ski down the slope, at first standing upright, and then with a more and more forward Hexing of the knees. There are essentially three positions for downhill running: upright, medium position, and the crouch. The ankles, too, should be flexed, thus enabling the ski-er to place the weight well forward, and to achieve a more correct position. Terrain and snow conditions will decide what position is most suitable. The easier the going, and the better the chance of being able to foresee any obstacles, the deeper you can crouch down to increase your speed.

Provided the surface is hard the weight should be distributed evenly on both skis. When negotiating deep snow, one ski should be thrust a little in advance of the other, and die weight should correspondingly lit- transferred to the back (i.e., not die lead­ing) ski.

Slow comfortable speeds down .1 gentle slope. Upright posi-tion,   skis   parallel,   knees   well   Hexed,   hands   (lose   to   the   body.

Vs your speed increases, assume a more crouched position. Toes, knees, and face should be in a line. The inner ski should as a rule be about one foot ahead of the other.

At great speed the top part of the body should be leaning forward, the weight should be on the front part of the skis; knees together and well  Hexed.

At extreme speed the weight should be placed still further forward. The body should react like a coiled spring. Hexing with every bump. Arms should be pointing forwards, elbows resting on  the knees, with the sticks pointing backwards.

When negotiating a dip or hollow it is no good "pressing down", as most people still believe. I he result is hound to he that you will shoot into the air when you meet the bump at the other end of the depression.

In order to achieve a smooth consecutive movement you must follow the terrain, skimming over the bumps with your skis always in contact with the snow. When you reach a depression, press on your skis before you reach the change of gradient. When this is reached, raise your body slightly, to counteract the force of gravity.

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