Skill Level: Intermediate – Advanced
Summary: The best skiers don’t just “stand” on their skis—they use constant foot movement. Learn how the Push-Pull skiing technique creates smoother, more controlled turns.
Why Static Skiing Hurts Your Performance
Imagine you’re driving a car and only using your steering wheel to navigate—no gas, no brakes. Sounds limiting, right?
That’s exactly what happens when skiers try to turn without using their lower legs properly. Instead of pushing against the snow, the secret is a push-pull movement that allows the skis to flow naturally.
Traditional Turning Mistake: Rigid stance, pushing against the snow.
Better Approach: Moving your feet forward and backward dynamically during turns.
This small but powerful movement helps create smoother, more controlled turns without unnecessary upper-body compensation.
The Push-Pull Skiing Technique Explained
The Push-Pull Technique is a dynamic foot movement that happens during each turn:
✅ Push Forward: Move your feet slightly forward as you initiate the turn.
✅ Pull Back: Bring your feet slightly backward as you finish the turn.
This allows you to stay balanced, centered, and in control instead of relying on your upper body to adjust mid-turn.
How This Improves Your Skiing
✔ More Stability: Your center of mass stays over your base of support.
✔ Better Edge Control: Helps your skis engage smoothly with the snow.
✔ More Efficient Turns: Reduces skidding and tail washout.
❌ Without Push-Pull: Your skis tend to drift or "chatter" in the turn.
✅ With Push-Pull: Your skis carve naturally, staying stable on edge.
Try This Drill on a Gentle Slope
Want to feel the difference for yourself? Here’s a simple way to practice:
Push-Pull Drill Steps
1️⃣ Find an easy, groomed run with a gentle incline.
2️⃣ Begin skiing in a relaxed stance.
3️⃣ As you enter a turn, push your feet forward slightly.
4️⃣ As you complete the turn, pull them back under you.
5️⃣ Repeat, keeping your upper body stable.
Pro Tip: Exaggerate the movement at first, then refine it for smoother execution.
Why This Works: The Science of Balance & Motion
The best skiers are constantly adjusting their feet underneath them, rather than overusing their arms or torso.
✅ Moving your feet forward keeps your weight centered as you start the turn.
✅ Pulling them back helps complete the turn smoothly while maintaining balance.
✅ The result? More fluid, efficient skiing, no matter the terrain.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
🚫 Mistake 1: Over-Pushing the Skis Forward
❌ If your feet are too far forward, you'll feel "back-seated."
✅ Solution: Make small, controlled movements instead of big pushes.
🚫 Mistake 2: Forgetting the Pull-Back Motion
❌ Many skiers push their feet forward but don’t bring them back.
✅ Solution: Focus on completing the motion with a smooth pull-back.
🚫 Mistake 3: Using Upper Body to Adjust Instead of Legs
❌ If you're swinging your arms or twisting your torso, your balance is off.
✅ Solution: Keep your core engaged and let your legs do the work.
Small Movement, Big Impact
The Push-Pull Technique is a simple but powerful way to improve your turning ability. By making small foot adjustments, you’ll:
✅ Stay more balanced
✅ Improve turn quality
✅ Reduce unnecessary upper-body movement
🎥 See Thomas demonstrate this technique in action: YouTube Video
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