This article is reprinted from The Professional Skier.
All copyrights apply.
Please see our copyright and disclaimer notice page. There is something magically captivating about a smooth telemark skier. Many a skier and snowboarder, regardless of their skill level, will stop in their tracks to watch the long, arcing turns of an accomplished freeheeled downhiller. When coupled with dynamic body position, the skier's exaggerated change of the lead ski makes the telemark turn fluid and elegant-hence the visual appeal. However, whether performed on the beginner hill or in the steeps, this smooth lead change is also the single most difficult move for most skiers to master when learning to telemark.