2 - Sliding

Question 1

What is the best choice of terrain for sliding?

Answer 1

Medium-steep slope without a side slope.

Question 2

Explain sliding on the heel edge and the toe edge.

Answer 2

Heel edge:
Standing, slowly loosen the heel edge attachment, stretch the ankle joint, which causes the board to start sliding. When learning, we advise that in order to successfully slide on the heels, it is necessary to lean slightly on the back of the binding (highback), lift the toes and straighten the torso. It is important not to look at the ground, but a few meters forward in the direction of sliding. Reduce the speed by lifting the toes more intensively or by applying a larger edge pressure, which can also be done by slowly lowering down to the ground if necessary.

Toe edge:
Stand on your toes with your back facing the valley or in the direction of sliding. Slowly release the toe edge extension, bending your ankle joint (ankle). By pressing on your toes and lifting your heels, you activate your ankles, and push your knees in the direction of the slope. Pay attention to your hips, which must remain above the board. Your torso is straight and active. Your head should be looking over your shoulders, and your torso and shoulders should not be turned.

Question 3

What are the 5 most common problems and causes with sliding?

Answer 3

• Uncontrolled change in the direction of the board’s sliding towards the slope due to incorrect distribution of the center of gravity on the board.
• Falls on the buttocks when sliding on the heels due to improper body position over the board, sitting or leaning back.
• Looking at the board is a common occurrence among beginners, it causes a deceptive sense of security. A surfer who stares at the board is not aware of their surroundings.
• The forward bend when gliding on the heels is the result of an overextended knee joint and is a result of initial uncertainty. The bent upper body when gliding on the toes is, similarly to gliding on the heels, the result of an overextended knee joint, resulting in a shift of the hips or an unbalanced position.
• Body twisting is a result of an attempt to maintain direction and speed, which leads to an unstable balance position.

Question 4

What are 3 exercises to strengthen sliding knowledge?

Answer 4

• Downwards sliding with varying speed, where the speed is controlled by varying the edge setting.
• Gradual lowering of the center of gravity until stopping or complete
• Downwards sliding with teacher assistance.

Question 5

Explain how and where to start sliding sideways as well as 3 common problems.

Answer 5

Where: wide, medium-steep and smooth slope.

How: during the side slide, we look in the desired direction (2/3 of the weight is transferred to the front leg).

Most common problems: sliding in the wrong direction, turning the upper body and leaning forward, excessive sliding on the edge