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Austrian
Ski Racing Technique
Editor's Note: This outline of the Austrian basic coaching method has
been provided by the Austrian Ski Federation.
Although
this material is somewhat general, these basic principles could serve as
a foundation on which ski coaches and advanced instructors can base
their educational and training process.
Specific
Characteristics of the Austrian Racing Technique
General
guidelines (apply to all kinds of turns, from slalom to downhill):
-
Open
athletic stance with skis positioned wide.
-
Basic stance generally stays the same (may change slightly to fit
the terrain).
-
No
steps or stepping-type movements.
-
Upper body is upright and slightly forward.
-
Upper body position should not unfold or extend to resist the
pressure built-up in the turn.
-
Skis are kept
parallel.
Turn progression:
Photos of
Hermann Maier (GS) and Benjamin Raich (SL) by Stan Petrash
1. Transition
 
During the
unloading phase in transition, the upper body remains in neutral
position, while skis, legs and knees cross under the body into a new
turn in pendulum-like motion.
2. Initiation
 
During the
initiation stage pressure is building up mostly on the outside ski.
Inside ski is also used troughout the turn and carries some weight.
3. Fall-line
 
Upon
entering the fall-line, pressure increases slightly (basic stance should
stay the same or slightly more extended/stretched). Getting too
far back should be avoided.
4. Exiting Fall-line
 
Exit out
of the fall line and un-weighting of the skis are performed by a fluid
transition from the outside ski onto the inside ski (the new outside
ski). |
