Learn How to Telemark Turn on Cross Country Skis Like a Pro

Do you want to master the art of telemark skiing? Telemark skiing, also known as free heel skiing, is a popular style that is a combination of cross-country skiing and downhill skiing. In this article, we will guide you through the basic technique of telemark skiing and provide you with step-by-step guidance on how to telemark turn on cross country skis.

Telemark skiing is not only a fun winter sport, but it’s also a great workout for your body. It requires strength, balance, and coordination, and it’s an excellent way to explore the great outdoors. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to get started on your telemark skiing journey.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, our comprehensive guide will help you improve your skills and take your telemark skiing to the next level. So, put on your skis, buckle up your boots, and let’s hit the slopes together!

Are you ready to become a telemark skiing pro? Let’s dive in and learn how to telemark turn on cross country skis like a pro.

Understand the Basic Technique of Telemark Skiing

Telemark skiing is a classic form of skiing that is making a comeback, and it’s not hard to see why. It combines the grace and agility of cross-country skiing with the thrill and speed of downhill skiing, all while providing an intense full-body workout. If you’re new to telemark skiing, it’s important to understand the fundamental technique that sets it apart from other forms of skiing.

One of the defining features of telemark skiing is the telemark turn, a technique that requires a deep knee bend in the lead ski while the trailing ski remains straight. This technique can be tricky to master at first, but with practice, it can become second nature.

Another important aspect of telemark skiing is balance. Unlike downhill skiing, telemark skiing requires equal weight distribution between both skis, which can feel unnatural at first. However, with proper form and practice, you’ll find yourself gliding effortlessly down the slopes in no time.

Understanding the basic technique of telemark skiing is essential for any beginner. In the following sections, we’ll cover everything you need to know about equipment, warming up, common mistakes to avoid, and more, so you can hit the slopes with confidence and style.

Learn How to Do the Telemark Stance

1. Start with proper alignment: When initiating a Telemark turn, start with a good stance. Keep your feet hip-width apart, and make sure that your weight is distributed evenly on both skis.

2. Lower your body: Next, lower your body into the Telemark stance. Keep your knees bent and your back straight. Your front knee should be bent at a 90-degree angle and your back leg should be extended behind you.

3. Keep your weight forward: Make sure to keep your weight forward over the ball of your front foot. This will help you stay balanced and in control throughout the turn.

4. Practice: Practice makes perfect! Spend time getting comfortable with the Telemark stance on flat terrain before attempting it on steeper slopes.

Mastering the Telemark stance is crucial for success in Telemark skiing. Practice regularly and focus on maintaining proper alignment, lowering your body, keeping your weight forward, and building up the strength and flexibility necessary for this challenging technique.

Understand the Weight Distribution in Telemark Skiing

The proper weight distribution is essential to maintain balance while telemark skiing. To achieve the correct weight distribution, you need to shift your weight forward while bending the front knee and keeping the back leg straight. This position is known as the telemark stance.

When you initiate the turn, you need to shift your weight from your uphill ski to your downhill ski. This shift should be gradual and controlled. You should also bend your back leg to engage the rear ski in the turn.

Proper weight distribution will not only help you maintain balance and control but also allow you to generate more power and speed in your turns. Keep practicing the telemark stance and weight distribution until it becomes second nature.

Choose the Right Equipment for Telemark Skiing

Telemark skiing requires specific equipment to ensure the best performance on the snow. One of the most critical components is the binding, which connects the boots to the skis. Telemark bindings come in three types, including 75mm bindings, NTN bindings, and tech bindings. 75mm bindings are the traditional option that works well for beginners, while NTN bindings are the most advanced and offer better control and power. Tech bindings, on the other hand, are lightweight and perfect for backcountry skiing.

Another important consideration is the boot. Telemark ski boots should provide enough flex for the telemark stance and offer excellent support to the ankles. Additionally, they should fit snugly to ensure better control over the skis. When selecting the right boot, it’s important to consider the type of skiing you’ll be doing, as well as your skiing level.

The skis used for telemark skiing are different from alpine skis. They’re typically narrower and have a softer flex, which allows for better control and maneuverability. The skis come in different sizes, and the ideal size depends on your height and weight, as well as your skiing ability.

Lastly, poles are an important part of telemark skiing, and they should be selected based on your height. The poles should be long enough to reach your armpits when standing on flat ground. You should also consider the material of the pole, with aluminum being the most durable and cost-effective option.

Select the Right Type of Skis for Telemark Skiing

If you’re just starting out with telemark skiing, consider renting or borrowing a pair of skis before investing in your own. When you’re ready to buy your own skis, there are a few things to consider:

1. Type: There are two main types of telemark skis: traditional and modern. Traditional telemark skis are narrower and longer, while modern telemark skis are wider and shorter. Traditional skis are best for groomed slopes, while modern skis are better for powder and mixed terrain.
2. Flex: The flex of your ski determines how much pressure you need to apply to initiate a turn. Softer flexing skis are better for beginners because they’re easier to control, while stiffer flexing skis are better for advanced skiers who want more power and control.
3. Length: The length of your ski depends on your height, weight, and skill level. A general rule of thumb is that the ski should be about the same height as you, but shorter skis are easier to maneuver and control.
4. Bindings: Telemark bindings attach your boot to the ski and allow you to lift your heel for the telemark stance. There are three types of bindings: cable, NTN, and 75mm. Cable bindings are the most common and affordable, NTN bindings offer more power and control, and 75mm bindings are traditional and lightweight.

Choosing the right type of skis for telemark skiing is crucial for your enjoyment and safety on the slopes. Consider your skill level, terrain, and personal preferences when selecting your skis, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from a professional.

Master the Telemark Turn with Step-by-Step Guidance

The telemark turn is a graceful and challenging skiing technique that requires proper form and timing. With a little guidance and practice, you can learn how to master this impressive turn and take your skiing to the next level.

Before you start practicing the telemark turn, it’s important to get comfortable with the telemark stance and weight distribution. You’ll also want to make sure you have the right equipment, including telemark-specific skis, boots, and bindings.

Once you’re ready to start practicing, begin by breaking down the turn into individual steps. This will help you focus on each part of the turn and perfect your technique. Start with the basic telemark turn and gradually work your way up to more advanced variations, such as the parallel telemark turn and the hopping telemark turn.

Remember to practice regularly and be patient with yourself. The telemark turn takes time and effort to master, but with dedication and persistence, you can become a skilled telemark skier.

Understand the Mechanics of the Telemark Turn

• Lead with the inside ski: Begin the turn by moving your inside ski forward and leading with your knee.
• Bend your knees: As you lead with your inside ski, bend both knees and keep your weight centered over the balls of your feet.
• Drop your hip: As you start to turn, drop your hip down and in towards the inside of the turn.
• Extend and weight the outside ski: As you come through the turn, extend your outside leg and weight that ski while keeping your inside ski light. This helps you control your speed and turn shape.

Remember to practice the mechanics of the telemark turn slowly and deliberately, so you can build good habits and muscle memory. With practice, you’ll be able to execute the turn smoothly and with confidence, no matter what terrain you encounter.

Practice the Telemark Turn with a Slow Speed and Flat Terrain

Once you have understood the basics and mechanics of the telemark turn, it’s time to practice it on the snow. It is recommended to start practicing on flat terrain with slow speed to get a feel for the turn before attempting it on steeper terrain.

Begin by finding a wide open space: Look for an area with enough space to make the turns without any obstacles. This will make it easier for you to practice the turns without worrying about any obstacles in your way.

Start with the right stance: Make sure you get into the correct stance and balance yourself properly before attempting the turn. Keep your knees bent, and your weight distributed evenly over your skis.

Practice the motion: Start by gliding in a straight line, then slowly move into the telemark stance, and then transfer your weight to your front ski as you turn. Keep your movements fluid and smooth, and remember to always keep your weight forward.

Remember, the more you practice, the better you will become at the telemark turn. With enough practice, you’ll be able to tackle steeper terrain and make beautiful, effortless turns down the mountain.

Get Ready for Telemark Skiing: Warm-Up and Stretching Tips

Before hitting the slopes, it’s important to properly warm up your body to prevent injuries. Start with some cardiovascular exercises, such as jumping jacks or jogging, to increase your heart rate and warm up your muscles.

Next, focus on dynamic stretching, which involves moving your muscles through a range of motion to improve flexibility and mobility. Try lunges, leg swings, and squats to target your legs, which are essential for telemark skiing.

Don’t forget to stretch your upper body as well, especially your shoulders, back, and arms. These muscles are also engaged during telemark skiing, and stretching them can help prevent soreness and injuries.

Finally, end your warm-up with some static stretching to further improve your flexibility and reduce muscle tension. Hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds and focus on your breathing to relax your body and prepare for the slopes.

Do a Cardio Warm-Up Before Telemark Skiing

If you want to get the most out of your telemark skiing experience, it’s important to prepare your body properly before hitting the slopes. One of the most important things you can do is to get your heart rate up and your blood flowing with a cardio warm-up.

Some great cardio warm-up exercises for telemark skiing include jogging, cycling, jumping jacks, and high knees. These exercises will help to get your heart rate up and your blood flowing to your muscles, which will help you to perform better on the slopes.

It’s important to start your cardio warm-up at a low intensity and gradually increase the intensity as your body warms up. Aim to do your cardio warm-up for at least 5-10 minutes before starting your telemark skiing session.

Stretch Your Legs, Hips, and Back Before Telemark Skiing

Stretching before telemark skiing can help prevent injury and increase flexibility. Start by stretching your legs, especially your quadriceps and hamstrings, which are heavily used in telemark skiing. Make sure to stretch your hips, as they play a crucial role in the telemark turn. Finally, stretch your back, which can become strained during the telemark position.

Some recommended stretches for telemark skiing include the standing quad stretch, the forward fold, the butterfly stretch, and the cat-cow stretch. It’s essential to hold each stretch for at least 15-30 seconds and repeat each stretch at least 2-3 times.

Incorporating yoga into your stretching routine can also be beneficial, as it helps build strength, balance, and flexibility, which are all important for telemark skiing. Consider practicing yoga poses like warrior one and two, pigeon pose, and downward dog to help prepare your body for telemark skiing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Telemark Skiing

Poor Weight Distribution: One of the most common mistakes beginners make in telemark skiing is putting too much weight on their back foot. This can cause instability and difficulty turning.

Not Enough Knee Bend: Without proper knee bend, it’s hard to make smooth, controlled turns. Keeping your knees flexed helps absorb bumps and maintain balance.

Leaning Too Far Forward: Leaning too far forward can lead to a loss of balance and cause you to catch an edge, resulting in a fall.

Holding Your Poles Incorrectly: Your poles are important for balance and rhythm in telemark skiing. Holding them too tightly or too far apart can throw off your balance and make it difficult to turn.

Not Using Your Edges: Telemark skis have edges that allow you to grip the snow and make controlled turns. Failing to use your edges properly can result in unstable turns and loss of control.

Leaning Backward Too Much During the Turn

Telemark skiing requires a forward-leaning stance, so leaning backward during the turn is a common mistake that can cause falls and loss of control.

To avoid this mistake, focus on keeping your weight centered over your feet, and use your core muscles to maintain an upright posture throughout the turn.

You can also practice drills that emphasize forward pressure, such as lunges or skiing with your arms extended forward.

Remember that proper form is essential for successful telemark skiing, so take the time to develop good habits and avoid this common mistake.

If you find yourself leaning backward during a turn, take a break and refocus on your posture and weight distribution.

Not Keeping the Body Upright and Balanced

Telemark skiing requires a centered stance with your body upright and balanced over your skis. If you lean too far forward or backward, you’ll lose control and fall.

To avoid this mistake: Keep your core engaged, and your back straight while skiing. Your shoulders and hips should face downhill. Avoid bending your back, as this can throw off your balance. Use your legs to absorb bumps and maintain stability.

Practice: skiing with a tall, upright posture. Do squats, lunges, and other exercises to strengthen your core, legs, and back.

Remember: Telemark skiing requires balance, strength, and control. By keeping your body upright and centered, you’ll be able to ski with greater ease and confidence.

Common issues: Some common issues that can cause problems with balance include leaning back on your heels or not distributing your weight evenly on your skis. Pay attention to your form, and practice your turns slowly and deliberately to develop good habits.

Not Applying Enough Pressure on the Front Ski

Telemark skiing requires proper weight distribution on both skis. One common mistake is not applying enough pressure on the front ski. This can cause the ski to lose its grip on the snow and lead to a fall. To avoid this, focus on pushing down on the ball of your front foot and keeping your weight centered over the front ski.

Another mistake is lifting the heel of the back ski too soon, which can cause the weight to shift to the back and reduce pressure on the front ski. To fix this, try to keep the heel of the back ski down until you are ready to complete the turn.

Using your poles properly can also help you apply pressure on the front ski. Plant your pole firmly on the snow in front of you as you initiate the turn, and use it as a lever to help you shift your weight forward.

Finally, make sure your equipment is properly adjusted and fitted to your body. If your bindings are too far back, it can be difficult to apply pressure on the front ski. Consult with a professional if you are unsure about your equipment setup.

Take Your Telemark Skiing to the Next Level with Advanced Tips

Telemark skiing is a challenging and rewarding sport, but it takes time and effort to improve. Here are some advanced tips to help you take your telemark skiing to the next level:

Work on Your Flexibility – Flexibility is key to mastering telemark skiing, and stretching is crucial. Try yoga or Pilates to increase your flexibility and improve your balance on the slopes.

Focus on Your Technique – Technique is essential to successful telemark skiing. Pay attention to your posture, position, and movements. Take lessons or practice with an experienced friend to fine-tune your technique.

Experiment with Different Terrain – Telemark skiing is a versatile sport that can be enjoyed on a variety of terrain. Experiment with different slopes, conditions, and obstacles to challenge yourself and improve your skills.

Build Your Strength – Telemark skiing requires significant strength in your legs and core. Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine, such as squats, lunges, and core workouts, to build the necessary muscles.

Push Yourself Outside Your Comfort Zone – It can be easy to get comfortable with a certain level of telemark skiing, but pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is key to improving. Try new challenges, such as steeper slopes or more complex terrain, to push yourself and continue advancing.

Use Pole Planting to Improve the Timing of Your Turns

Pole planting is a technique that can improve your timing and rhythm when making turns in telemark skiing. It involves planting the pole in the snow to initiate the turn, providing a visual and physical cue for your body to follow.

Timing is crucial in telemark skiing, and pole planting can help you maintain a consistent and efficient rhythm throughout your run. Make sure to plant the pole at the same time as your lead ski and use it to guide your body into the turn.

Practice pole planting on groomed runs before taking it to more challenging terrain. As you become more comfortable with the technique, you can start to incorporate it into your turns on steeper slopes and in variable conditions.

Try Steeper Terrain and Higher Speeds to Challenge Yourself

If you feel comfortable with the basics of telemark skiing, it may be time to push yourself by tackling steeper terrain and increasing your speed. This will require more control and agility, and will help you improve your technique.

Start with small increments: Gradually increase the steepness of the terrain and your speed to avoid injury or accidents. Take breaks if necessary, and don’t push yourself too hard too soon.

Focus on technique: Keep your body upright and centered over your skis, with your weight forward. Use your core muscles to maintain balance and control, and keep your turns smooth and fluid.

Stay in control: Maintain control by keeping your speed under control and using your edges to maintain contact with the snow. Avoid leaning back or breaking at the waist, which can throw you off balance and reduce control.

Practice, practice, practice: The more you challenge yourself, the more you’ll improve. Take every opportunity to practice on steeper terrain and at higher speeds, and focus on your technique to build your skills and confidence.

Learn How to Carve Turns with Telemark Skis

If you want to take your telemark skiing to the next level, learning how to carve turns is a must. Carving turns involves using the edges of your skis to make smooth, curved turns down the mountain. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Body Position: To carve turns, you need to maintain a balanced, centered stance with your weight evenly distributed over your skis. Keep your upper body facing downhill and your knees bent.
• Edge Angle: To carve, you need to tip your skis onto their edges. The more you angle your skis, the tighter your turns will be.
• Smooth Movements: Carving turns requires smooth, fluid movements. Try to avoid any sudden or jerky motions.
• Practice: As with any new skill, practice is key. Start on gentle slopes and gradually work your way up to steeper terrain.

With a bit of practice, you’ll be carving turns like a pro in no time. Just remember to stay focused on your body position, edge angle, and movements to achieve those smooth, beautiful turns.

Frequently Asked Questions