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Many people look for a ski holiday bargain to keep the cost down or to get the most added value from their holiday. The money saved can always be put to good use, for example to arrange some ski lessons to help you learn how to jump higher and longer on the slopes! Jumping adds another dimension to your ski experience, one that is exciting and gets the adrenalin flowing. As you become a more accomplished skier, adding jumps to your “repertoire” turns a great day’s skiing into an unforgettable one. Here is some basic information on jumping. We hope it will show you that it’s really not that difficult to master (but you still need to practice) and with a little perseverance, you’ll soon be performing jumps that will amaze your friends. Two Basic Techniques – Springing and Ollie Like a normal jump, springing entails using the upper legs and body to spring into the air. The Ollie (similar to the basic skateboard Ollie jump) also uses the flexibility of the skis as a “spring” to increase jump height Both techniques have advantages and disadvantages. But if you save enough money on your ski holiday bargain package, you’ll be able to get professional lessons that will maximise your skills and results. The Ollie Pros: Gives you the most air time and increases you jump distance. Cons: Steep learning curve with lots of practice needed. Timing and balance are critical. The Ollie is a more complex technique that produces better results, but it needs more practice and greater accuracy when implementing. This description of the technique will demonstrate this and why it’s worthwhile using some of the money saved by booking a ski holiday bargain package for lessons. 1. As you approach the jump point, lean your upper body forwards at about 250 angle. 2. At the take off point, bend your knees slightly and throw your weight backwards so that you’re almost in a sitting position. 3. As the front of the skis begin to lose contact with the snow, bring your body forwards. 4. To gain extra height, jump up with your body leaning forwards at about 250 keeping your weight over the skis’ centre. 5. To increase air time and distance travelled, tuck your body in. 6. Before landing, begin to straighten your body but keep your waist and knees bent at point of impact. 7. As you land, crouch down to absorb impact and then slowly stand up to continue skiing. Springing Pros: Quicker learning curve and timing and balancing your jump is a lot easier. Cons: Air time and distance covered is less than with the Ollie. 1. As you get closer to your “take off point” crouch down keeping your body in the centre of the skis at all times. 2. To jump, push your body upright as the front of the skis go over the take off point. Done properly, this gives you the most height and, if you tuck your body in, it also increases air time and distance. 3. As for balance, as long as you maintain the body’s position in the centre of the skis, you should have no problems at all. So, when you’re away on your ski holiday bargain package – jump high and aim for the sky – but come down safely. Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service which has been helping avid skiers craft their perfect winter holiday for over a quarter of a century. With a team that has years of experience on the slopes, Ski Amis is the go-to company for winter sport fans looking for a great ski holiday bargain in the Three Valleys, Paradiski, Espace Killy or Chamonix Valley.
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