Turning on skis is something that every beginner learns early on, since it is one of the primary movements you’ll be doing as you’re skiing downhill. There are several different types of turns, some of them easier than others. One that skiers must inevitably learn is the parallel turn.
What is a parallel turn?
You’ve likely seen skiers parallel turn before, whether you know what it is or not! A parallel is when a skier is turning with their skis parallel to each other (also called the “french fry” position). These look smooth, effortless, and make any skier look like a pro. This is why many beginners are excited to learn these!
Why should I learn to parallel turn?
There are several benefits to learning parallel turns. For one, learning how to parallel turn while skiing will help you cruise more easily down steeper terrain and bigger hills without using as much energy. Another benefit to learning how to parallel turn while skiing is that once you get the hang of it, it will allow you more control. Last of all, it will make you feel more confident as a skier!
How to Parallel Turn While Skiing
The prerequisite to learning how to make parallel turns while skiing is knowing how to do wedge turns (also called pizza or snowplow) smoothly. Once you’ve gotten this down, you’re ready to learn how to parallel!
Step 1: Start on an easy hill
This should be obvious, but you don’t want to learn new skills on steep slopes. It will make it more difficult, and you will put yourself and others at a greater risk of injury. It may feel like you’re moving backwards to head back to the bunny hill after you’ve been making your way down green runs, but remember, this will be the best place to start!
Step 2: Practice shrinking your wedge turns
When learning how to parallel turn while skiing, you will want to start by reducing the size of your wedge or pizza shape. In other words, you’ll want to bring your skis closer together and into a parallel position. How exactly do you do this? One way you can start is by focusing on your uphill ski as you go and try to align it with your downhill ski towards the end. You can also lift your uphill ski as you turn and tap it on the snow as you line it up. This exercise will help you learn how to bring your skis closer together.
Step 3: Practice releasing your edges
Next, you will want to practice releasing your edges. What exactly does this mean? Releasing your edges is when you will stand sideways on the slope (again, be sure you’re not on a steep hill when practicing) and release the edges of your skis so that you will slide down the hill a little way. Practicing this will help you learn to keep your skis parallel while you transition while skiing.
Other tips for smoothing out your skiing form:
- Keep your legs hip-width apart. Having your legs/skis too far apart will reduce your mobility and make learning parallel more difficult, so keep your stance in mind as you’re skiing.
- Put your weight on your downhill ski. This is especially important when parallel turning and something that may not feel intuitive, but it’s how you will do it successfully!
- Use your legs to steer through your parallel turns. Rather than steering with your whole body, parallel turns really only require you to steer with your legs as you keep your upper body facing downhill.
- Don’t be afraid to point your skis downhill. In order to successfully parallel turn, you’re going to need to have your skis pointed downhill at least briefly! While this can be scary and perhaps make you afraid that you’ll gain too much speed, it’s important to push through and focus on transitioning into your turn. It might take a little bit of practice to get comfortable with this.
- Visualize making a smooth S shape. Parallel turns should be smooth and flowy rather than sharp. Focusing on making them smooth will help you to link them together more easily as you’re skiing downhill.
Other things to note:
Learning anything new can be frustrating, especially if you’re struggling to get the hang of it. Be patient and keep a positive attitude while skiing! Remember that you will not master parallel turns right away so don’t expect to.
Also make sure that you have all of the proper gear as you’re learning! Skiing in any worn-out gear will likely make things more difficult than they need to be. If you’re searching for a new pair of skis, bindings, boots, or any ski clothing, be sure to check out our ski shop! We have ski equipment for all ages, preferences, and experience levels, so you’re sure to find something that will feel great and make learning how to parallel turn while skiing all the easier.
