How To Stop On Skis

Need to know how to stop on skis? One of the most important things that you need to know when hitting the slopes is how to stop when you are skiing. Gliding down a hill at high speeds, swishing right and left, the cold breeze rushing past your face doesn’t sound as appealing, if the only way you can stop is by hitting a tree. Follow the simple steps, to learn how to perform a snowplow stop. A snowplow stop is a great beginning way to ensure you are able to stop on skis.

In order to learn how to stop in skiing, you will need:

• skis
• bunny slope (or other small slope)

1. Turn your skis so they form an upside down V. Take the back of your skis and carefully slide them outwards. Make sure as you do this, the front of your skis are coming together. The result should form an upside down V.
2. Slow down until you stop. Once your skis are in this shape, keep your skis still and your knees bent. You will eventually come to a stop.
3. Fall safely, if necessary. If you are going to fall while you are stopping, fall toward the higher part of the hill. Try to position your body so that your elbow and hip hit the ground first. Using a safe falling technique can prevent an injury.

The snowplow stop can be used by both downhill and cross-country skiers. Learning to stop on skis should be the first thing you learn when hitting the slopes. Never attempt to practice stopping while going down a large hill. It is better to stick to the bunny slopes until you have perfected your snowplow technique.