Wisconsin Skis: Let’s Talk About Falling

Date: February 1, 2015
Total time: 53 minutes
Distance: 4.5 Miles

Today, I hit the Moccasin Lake Ski Trail to get some maintenance miles in. The course was great, but I was a little sore and cold so decided to just do one loop to shake out yesterday’s long ski.

I lost my balance and planted my butt in the snow a couple of times early on on, so I decided that today would be a good time to work on my falling and getting back up technique.

My dad says,  “If you’re not falling not really skiing.” I think that’s a statement that you can carry through to the rest of your life as well.

So, if you’re new to skiing then I recommend some practice falls so you don’t panic when it’s time to get back up after you really biff it on a steep hill.

How to fall:

  • When you fall it’s best to try to fall backwards on to your butt. If you can control the fall at all, just try to sit back between your skis and your butt will slow you down.
  • Now you’re on the ground. If your skis are crossed, then pick them up and arrange them so they are parallel. Make sure that you are not pointed down a hill.
  • You may either want to place your skis in the snow plow position or piece place them parallel against the angle of the hill.
  • Either place both poles in one hand or keep them in both hands and pull yourself back up.
  • Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.

Falling can be a terrifying experience, but don’t let it deter you. Have some faith that you can handle most falls and can pick yourself up and keep going.

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