How to Hit Huge Jumps with Skis

After perfecting the slopes and getting bored with regular ski tricks you'll want to take it to the big air. Taking off on large ski jumps requires balance, coordination and guts for proper execution. With larger jumps the landing is just as important as the jump itself. Scouting the ski jump, controlling your speed and absorbing the impact with your knees will help you to conquer large intimidating ski jumps.

Instructions

    • 1

      Check out the ski area and other skiers around the jump. Make sure the jump is clear of trees, rocks or other skiers. Observe the snow conditions on the takeoff and landing area to ensure it's safe to jump. The snow should be hard and packed down in the takeoff area. The landing area should be angled downhill to ensure you don't land on a flat surface, where too much impact from the landing can cause injury. Ski through the jump area and observe other skiers executing their jumps. Notice their speed as they approach the jump.

    • 2

      Place your spotter in position. A spotter is someone who is on lookout to notify you when it is safe to jump. The spotter should be positioned slightly just past the landing side of the jump, but still in your range of view.

    • 3

      Wait for your spotter to lift his arm in the air to indicate you are clear and safe to go. Ski down the hill toward the jump, controlling your speed by carving or turning back and forth through the snow. Observe other skiers' speed and match it. It may take a few runs to get a feel for how fast you should go as you approach the jump.

    • 4

      When your skis reach the lip or crest of the jump bend your knees and spring off the jump . Stay relaxed by keeping your lower body still and using your arms to maintain balance as you glide through the air. Lean forward to match the angle of the slope as you approach the landing area.

    • 5

      Spot your landing as you come close to the landing area in the snow on the other side of the jump. Keep your feet shoulders'-length apart and your knees bent to absorb the landing.