This is the beginner progression I wrote to help my new instructor candidates. I welcome feedback on it. Here are my sources and additional resources.
Why teach rotary?
If a student can stand on skis then balance is working. The skis are in a wedge, so there is edging. Pressure is created naturally. Leaving only one of the four basic skills we need to introduce: rotary. You are also using a movement will serve guests as they continue to improve. Old school pressure turns are a dead end.
Two ski
Goal: Maintain balance while moving, reinforce rotary movements.
Terrain: Flat
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Suggested activities:
• Skating
• Sliding
• Step around – Step in a circle with tips in and then tails in
• Duck walk/Herringbone
• Sidestepping
Coaching Points:
• Actively flex ankles to remain in balance
• Take small steps to avoid tripping
• Use edges to move uphill and stand in place on the hill
Straight run
Goal: Maintain balance while moving, reinforce good stance.
Terrain: Small incline with a runout
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Suggested activities:
• How many fingers? Will help guests keep their heads up and eyes forward
• Don’t step on a crack – Lift one foot, then the other
• Reach for the stars – Glide, reaching hands high over head. Duck low and try to touch boots
• Glide and shuffle – Keep stride to one boot length
• Popcorn – Jump when someone says popcorn
• Glide in a micro-wedge
Coaching Points:
• Skis parallel
• Ankles, knees, and hips evenly flexed
• Eyes up and hands in front
Why teach rotary?
If a student can stand on skis then balance is working. The skis are in a wedge, so there is edging. Pressure is created naturally. Leaving only one of the four basic skills we need to introduce: rotary. You are also using a movement will serve guests as they continue to improve. Old school pressure turns are a dead end.
Two ski
Goal: Maintain balance while moving, reinforce rotary movements.
Terrain: Flat
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Suggested activities:
• Skating
• Sliding
• Step around – Step in a circle with tips in and then tails in
• Duck walk/Herringbone
• Sidestepping
Coaching Points:
• Actively flex ankles to remain in balance
• Take small steps to avoid tripping
• Use edges to move uphill and stand in place on the hill
Straight run
Goal: Maintain balance while moving, reinforce good stance.
Terrain: Small incline with a runout
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Suggested activities:
• How many fingers? Will help guests keep their heads up and eyes forward
• Don’t step on a crack – Lift one foot, then the other
• Reach for the stars – Glide, reaching hands high over head. Duck low and try to touch boots
• Glide and shuffle – Keep stride to one boot length
• Popcorn – Jump when someone says popcorn
• Glide in a micro-wedge
Coaching Points:
• Skis parallel
• Ankles, knees, and hips evenly flexed
• Eyes up and hands in front
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