Here's to Cal!

In all cases, the primary source for edging (creating an edge angle) is always the feet. This is a big one from Cal! Tipping both feet with matching edges, creates a kinetic chain reaction up the body. The kinetic chain starts in the tipped feet then goes to the ankles, from the ankles to the knees, from the knees to the femur, from the femur up through the hips, and finally up the core to the head. All great skiers exhibit this natural flowing progression.

Without it, you lose balance and struggle for control. Not fun! Not a pretty picture!"

To experience the Kinetic Chain, try this simple move in front of a mirror. Stand relaxed in a tall stance with feet about a hand width apart. Slowly put both feet on edge, as if you were skiing. Notice how your head naturally remains vertically in line above your feet, but your hips move gently out to the side. Allowing your body to curve naturally, automatically helps it flow in response to your tipping feet. When both centered and balance from the kinetic chain reaction, you can ski with intention, manipulating your edge angles at will. Your stance will be solid, beautiful, composed, and moreover, it happens without thought.

Wow, the Kinetic Chain--something that happens naturally in skiing--a wonderful thing!

When speed increases, we naturally lean into the turn developing more edge to control our speed and shape our turns. Leaning like this is called "inclination with angulation”. If we incline without angulation, it is called banking (a no-no)! Inclination with Angulation happens naturally and, it all starts in the feet! Skiing from the feet up can take you into worlds you've only dreamt about!