The function and correct use of our poles can seem as ambiguous as a politician’s speech. Good pole usage complements and aids upper body movements in dynamic skiing. Missing pole plants, poorly timed pole plants or directionally inappropriate pole swings can create dysfunctional elements in your skill set. Diverse terrain requires attention to rhythm and strong core movements that are directed down the fall line. The pole swing is timed with an extension move at the start of th turn, this aids in directing your momentum toward the apex of the turn. As the pole is planted it helps stabilize your body as you change from the uphill set of edges to the downhill set of edges. The pole swing should originate from the wrist and not the elbow. As your turn shape changes, the direction and timing of your pole swing adjusts accordingly. When skiing steep terrain and bumps your pole swing will directed more towards the fall line rather than the apex of your turn, your pole plant will happen as you pull away from the fall line and the skis turn across the hill. Next time you are out on the hill think about the timing and directionality of your pole swing and plant and what it does to your rhythm and stabilization of the upper body.
Tag: ski lessons Portillo
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Daydreaming about Portillo……..
Counting down the days till we are in sunny and snowy Portillo. That place is so much fun, it’s a wonderland for skiers. If you like to ski and you like to have fun, this is where you need to go this summer. We can hardly wait to ski under the brilliant blue Andean sky, miles and miles of terrain infront of us with the breathtaking Lago del Inca as a backdrop. The skiing at Portillo is just downright fun, there is a level of challenge for everyone. Even the thought of riding up the Rocajack or Cara Cara lifts make you want to chuckle. Then there is the delicious food and of course dessert. Portillo has some of the best ice cream around in unique delicious flavors like, Lucuma, Maracuja, Chirimoya, and Manjar. And there is the ‘mil hojas’ cake that is sooo good. It’s a good thing we ski everyday otherwise we’d be in trouble. One of the fun things to do is hit the bar after dinner, when the band starts playing and watch the place go off. If the band is particularly good, you will get people dancing on the tables, the windows will steam up and it’s a good time whether you jumping in on the action or just watching it. Then there is the disco, which can be hit or miss, it kinda depends on the crowd. Don’t miss out on La Posada if you want to an authentic cultural experience. The bbq’s in the Posada are always a great way to start the night. Everyone’s favorite spot is Tio Bob’s. What is there to not love about this place. When the sun is out, you can sit outside and take in the phenomenal view. The salads up there are the best! The best part about Portillo……the people! Everyone is so friendly and you get to meet some of the nicest and coolest people. You don’t miss summer one bit while you are there, if you do, just head down to the pool (it’s heated) or hot tub with a beverage and you’ll forget just about everything. C-H-I….Chi L-E….Le, chi, chi, chi, le, le, le VIVA CHILE!