Speed
Overview: To increase speed on straight sections of a racecourse, consider three key strategies: gliding on the ski bases, minimizing edge angles during direction changes, and adopting appropriate aerodynamic body stances. These stances, including the high and low tuck stance, can significantly enhance your racing performance. Also learn how to ski fast carving turns.
Gliding and Changing Direction:
When not arcing a turn, look for opportunities to glide on the ski bases to increase your speed. Skis are quickest when gliding flat on the snow, especially when the bases are properly tuned with the right wax for the snow conditions of the day.
Deb Armstrong reviews when and how to tuck in her video.
High and Low Tuck Stances:
· The more the racer is required to change direction the more the body should be in the High Tuck stance.· When the racer can ski straight down the hill the Low Tuck is more aerodynamic.
High Tuck
· Flex both ankles forward, keep your back mostly flat and tip forward hinging at the waist until the elbows are in front of the knees.
· Push your hands forward in front of the face so you can just see over your gloves.
· This position allows the legs, knees, and ankles to flex and absorb changes of terrain.
This photo demonstrates the High Tuck Stance
Low Tuck
· Assume the High Tuck stance but lower your body so your elbows are in front of your knees and shins, curving your back to create a more aerodynamic position.
· Move your your feet and legs apart to enhance aerodynamics.
· Concentrate on your skis gliding flat on their bases by feeling pressure evenly on the arches of your feet.
Marco Odermatt of the Swiss Alpine Team demonstrates the Low Tuck while skiing forward.
· Be prepared to shift to a higher tuck stance and bring your legs closer together as the racecourse turns or the snow becomes rough.
Coach’s Tip
Practice your aerodynamic stances at home or at the gym. Stand beside a mirror. Hinge at your waist for a flat back, move your hands forward with elbows ahead of your knees (High Tuck) or ahead and below your knees (Low Tuck).
Speed Drills
Drills to help you ski confidently at speed are demonstrated by this video.
Question
What tuck positions do the World Cup racers use in this 2-minute video of a World Cup Downhill?
Fast Carving Turns
Skiing fast carved turns is a skill that can be learned and will both improve your skiing and prepare you for racing. Click below.
Key Takeaways
- To increase speed on straight sections of a race course, three key strategies are essential: gliding on ski bases, minimizing edge angles during direction changes, and adopting appropriate aerodynamic body stances, such as the high and low tuck positions.
- The choice between high and low tuck stances depends on the racer’s need to change direction. The high tuck stance is optimal when changing direction, involving flexing ankles, a mostly flat back, and pushing hands forward, while the low tuck stance, with a curved back, is better for skiing straight. Racers should switch between these positions as needed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and safety.
- Learning how to ski fast carving turns will improve you skiing and racing skills.
Suggested Learning Modules
Return to Learn to Race or Forward Movement or Giant Slalom
Return to Visualize for Performance and Safety
Important Note: Skiing and ski racing come with inherent risks. As such, it is imperative to ski responsibly and remain within the boundaries of your skill level and personal comfort zone.
