Diva Ski Tips

My Level II Preparation in 10 Steps by: Shannon Rucker It takes more than you think. I've always been good at tests and I didn't realize how much of a hindrance this was for me until recently. My first season at Liberty, I took my Level I examination and passed at the end of the season. I moved into my second year assuming I would clinic some and work on my Level II skiing for the following year and that's what I did. I went to ProJam and did the Level II ski prep group. I was excited and knew these 5 days were going to get me nearly ready to take the exam. I figured that coupled with a little extra work back at Liberty and I would be in great shape for an end of the season exam. I was horrifically wrong. I learned a lot at Pro Jam and my skiing definitely improved however; what I didn't realize was exactly how far away from the standard I was. I left somewhat frustrated and upset. This was compounded when I heard the same thing upon my return to Liberty. ...

I'm not a feeler. So what.  I said this for a long time myself.   And I didn't get much better at skiing. I'm not a feeler, but I seek intrinsic feedback and sensation to ski (hopefully) better. Just because they are hard to gather, doesn't mean we should leave sensations alone.   What makes a turn "feel" good? I've spent some time asking instructors and students what they feel this year. I believe that we all feel, but to effectively coach (and self-coach), it's essential to identify where our primary sensations arise and train ourselves to recognize those and other sensations. Foot feelings: where weight is on the foot along the sole and notice lateral pressure.  sense changes in where the pressure is throughout the turn.  notice when footbeds are old or socks thicker than usual. Leg feelings:  getting to the 'corner of the boot' and actually know what it means. lighter and firmer pressure against the tongue of the boot.  no...