The season’s only a couple of days in and already, we’ve been seeing some pretty hot-rat snowboarders shredding down the mountain – clearly they took our last Tips From The Team on board before strapping in this season. Skiers on the other hand, y’all need some work…
JOKING! We don’t want any angry skiers busting down our door, we just thought it would be a good way to introduce our next edition of Tips From The Team: How To Ski Like A Pro This Winter.
For this issue we’ve decided to get the expertises of none other than Rhythm Hirafu Ski Rental Supervisor, Demi Goddard.
If you’ve ever seen Demi cruising down the slopes of Hirafu, hiking the backcountry, or smashing laps in the park, you’ll know how easy it is to spot her effortless style almost instantly.
So, if you’re looking for some tips on how to elevate both your skiing and riding steez this winter, take a couple of notes out of her book:
Tip 1: Pick The Right Skis For The Conditions
“Powder skis will make your life easier on a powder day even if they seem intimidating.
Here at Rhythm our rental fleet has skis for all conditions and ability levels. Talk to our friendly experts to find out what ski will get you ripping the pow or the groomers. Epic face shots in the deepest pow are guaranteed with our K2 Reckoner 124s. For our all mountain heroes, give the Armada ARV 100s a spin. If you’re ripping the groomers try out the Volkl Peregrines or the Mantra/Secret.”
Tip 2: Stay Fueled
“Onigiri is the perfect ski sized snack – or a night ski dinner on the go. Stuff your pockets or backpack with snacks and water to stay hydrated. Skiing is a strenuous activity, and you’ll be able to enjoy the JaPow for longer and feel better about your skiing if you keep yourself fueled. Stop in for a cheeky toastie and coffee at the Rhythm & Beans cafe before heading back across the road to the lifts.”
Tip 3: Ride With Skiers That Push You Out Of Your Comfort Zone
“Skiing with people of a higher ability level will push you to improve your riding. As soon as I started mimicking my friends’ style and stance, my riding drastically improved. You won’t get better by skiing within your comfort zone. Falling helps you learn, and there is no comfier place to fall than the powder mecca of the world.”
Tip 4: Strength and Conditioning
“Here’s to strong knees on skis. A good strength and conditioning routine helps with mobility and injury prevention on the slopes. Help take the strain off your ligaments by strengthening the surrounding muscles. Haven’t started yet? Even a couple weeks of ski specific strength exercises could save you on the slopes and keep you skiing for longer with less fatigue.”
Tip 5: Adjust Your Stance – Don’t Be A Backseat Driver
“Keep it forward and aggressive for charging down the piste, and stay nice and centred over your skis for the powder. Don’t lean back, or you won’t be in control of your skis. Bend your knees and push your shins into your boots, stacking your body over your feet. Fixing your stance will improve your control, especially manoeuvring through powder.”
Tip 6: Trees Don’t Move
“Some of the best powder is found in the trees. When tree skiing, make sure to look where you want to go and your skis will make it happen. The moment you look at your obstacles, you will subconsciously move towards them.”
Still feel in need of some extra tips for this winter? Have a look into our Private Lesson options with Rhythm Rides – if you’ve got a riding goal, Rides has an instructor that’ll be able to help you get there.
