One of the things I have always focused on with slalom skiing is technique. There are two major reason for that in my opinion: 1-Proper technique makes for less work (so more efficient), and 2-Proper technique can prevent injury (so longevity of career whether hobby or job).
Over the years with my won skiing I have had seasons/years where I focused heavily on this, but I have also had seasons where I really just tried to “give it hell”. I have had success with both and failures with both. These trends in my training have invariably followed trends in my overall attitude toward life.
I say all of this in order to step out of my typical coaching character for a moment. Being a coach that spends a lot of time preaching the value of proper mechanics married with great rhythm, I think it is important to admit that sometimes you just gotta go for it. When you have been skiing for years and know your way around a slalom course no matter what level you ski, you need to occasionally recognize that you are good enough to run a PB on any given day while skiing on what you might call and “brutal” form of autopilot. I see my competitors do it quite often and even find myself getting pats on the back for “looking great” and having “beautiful technique” only to go home with something like a 15th place finish. These experiences along with my more honest training partners have insured over the years that from time to time, I just ski the pass and keep skiing no matter what happens. We have watched Andy Mapple (the legend) ski through several mistakes for years and literally crush his competitors. In fact 98% of the pro skiers who run 39 and go deep at 41 aren’t making it pretty when they get to their max pass.
I was sent the video below by my good friend and occasional training partner Srdjan Dragic. He sent it to me to pound home the idea that I was good enough to run 39 even on my worst day (a fact I am not altogether aware, but if he says so…). Anyway, watch the super-sloppy 39 I run below (well, I lost the handle at the exit gates) and tell me you don’t agree that it doesn’t always have to be pretty (pay no attention to the fact that someone tried to do me a favor at six ball with the boat…but perhaps a little late). Enjoy, and when you’re done…just go ski for a set or two!
By Seth Stisher