- \n
- Preparation and evaluating personal capability<\/a><\/li>\n
- Basic fitness as a prerequisite for a controlled descent<\/a><\/li>\n
- The best technique for controlling speed<\/a><\/li>\n
- Strong edging makes for easier steering<\/a><\/li>\n
- The right equipment for black runs<\/a><\/li>\n
- The top 5 black runs in the Alps<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Preparation and evaluating personal capability<\/h2>\n
![\"An](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Skiing-technique-black-run-preparation.jpg\")
The right technique and good preparation are essential for black runs such as the Harakiri \u00a9 Mayrhofner Bergbahnen<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Anyone who plans to conquer black runs on their next skiing holiday should be well-informed beforehand about the skiing resort, its slope markings (blue, red and black) and the genuine l<\/b>evel of difficulty<\/b>. For those who are not entirely sure about their own proficiency, many resorts have websites offering a digital \u201cbird\u2019s eye view\u201d perspective of the slopes, which many skiers find helpful.<\/p>\n
It is important for skiers to correctly evaluate their own capabilities. This reduces the chance of accidents or injuries and helps avoid the frustration that can arise after skiing a slope that was too difficult.<\/p>\n
Advanced skiers should also trust their basic instincts and only attempt a black run when the feeling is right. Although the necessary respect<\/b> for speed and the slope is essential on these slopes, fear has no place; with the right degree of calm and concentration, any black run can be mastered.<\/p>\n
Basic fitness as a prerequisite for a successful descent<\/h2>\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Copy-of-Skitechnik_Schwarze-Pisten_Grundfitness.jpg\")
Basic fitness is the best prerequisite for adventure but also fun on a black run<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Skiing black runs requires a certain level of basic fitness alongside the right technique. As with other intense sports, skiing demands a lot from the body. Coordination, stamina, stability and strengthened muscles are prerequisites, and comprehensive preparation beforehand is a must for those planning on spending their winter on the slopes.<\/p>\n
When short turn skiing and edging on icy slopes, the leg, core and arm muscles <\/b>take most of the strain. Ideally, specific training for these muscle groups should begin a few months before the season starts<\/a>. The complete musculoskeletal system has to be well-prepared, so as to be adaptable to the changing demands and challenges on the slope. Yoga and Pilates exercises<\/b> are particularly helpful, as is classical stretching<\/b> before and after sport.<\/p>\n
The best technique for controlling speed<\/h2>\n
Keeping a cool head<\/b> and regulating your speed whilst on a black run requires an advanced technique. Whilst having the same basis as on flatter slopes, this technique needs to be applied more carefully on high gradient slopes.<\/p>\n
The trick to mastering the black run is having a polished short turns technique<\/b>. This is important for keeping the skis under control on steep, icy slopes. It also enables a relaxed descent where speed doesn\u2019t take the upper hand. The short turn enables the skier to flexibly adapt the curve radius to the current terrain conditions. Leading the skis as rapidly as possible over the fall line significantly reduces the speed increase within the curve and so the pace can be better regulated. A weighted outer ski and fast short turns within the curve are vital in counteracting the strong downhill force on steep slopes. Simple exercises can notably improve your short turns technique <\/a>.<\/p>\n
In addition to the increased weighting on the outer ski and a rapid lead over the fall line<\/b>, it is important to briefly unweight the skis. The toes initiate a pressure build-up in the curve change, which relieves the pressure on the skis and they steer into the fall line. This helps the skier to turn more easily. However, the unweighting moment <\/b>should be kept to a minimum.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip:<\/b> Even if your legs take the most strain during short turns, a stable torso will prevent speeding and prevent uncontrolled slipping in the curves. Including a short core muscle workout into your pre skiing fitness programme will help train your upper body for black runs. Ideal exercises are planks, or reverse push-ups.<\/p>\n
Strong edging makes for easier steering<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/skiing-technique-advanced-black-run.jpg\")
Former professional Ingrid Salvenmoser demonstrates edging<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Icy patches on the slope can often be found on black runs. These should be skied with a cool head. Focused concentration and strong edging help you maintain control. It\u2019s important to stay calm, ignore the noises of the skis on the ice and to build up the pace with caution, as reducing speed on a steep slope can be very challenging.<\/p>\n
What is the best way to create a higher edge angle? Firstly the pressure on your outer ski is built up through a balancing movement from the upper body (direction valley). Simultaneously, the ankles, knees and hips should lean towards the slope. Use leg pressure <\/b>to build up the tension on the skis and achieve minimal surface contact. As the force is concentrated on a relatively narrow area, the edges grip the slope more effectively and skiing icy areas becomes a great deal easier.<\/p>\n
It takes a good deal of courage to master the demands of an icy slope. After the curve, the edging angle should be increased and the outer ski edge should bear the main load. This hinders side-slipping <\/b>and the skis can be lead more easily.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip: Position your skis wider apart <\/b>if you have the feeling that you\u2019re losing your balance on steep slopes and want to improve your stability. Wider positioning expands the surface area, resulting in improved stability. Well-considered pole use can also help you keep your balance.<\/p>\n
The right skiing equipment for black runs<\/h2>\n
In general, specific skis are not required for black runs. However, there are several other points that have to be considered when choosing the right equipment.<\/p>\n
No matter which type of skiing equipment you use, the joker card of black runs is sharpened edges<\/b>. Sharp edges grip on icy, steep slopes, ensuring a secure hold and making for a better all-round skiing experience. For this reason, it is recommended that you have your skis regularly and professionally serviced.<\/p>\n
Alongside tuned edges, the length of the skis also influences technique on black runs. Skis that are too long hinder turns on steep slopes as they demand more power to turn. On particularly short skis, the contact area is too small. Skis with so-called tip- or tip-tail-rockers <\/b>curve upwards at both ends and ease the skiing of black runs, as the shorter contact area makes them easier to turn.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip:<\/b> Those looking for professionally-serviced skis with perfectly sharpened edges for their adventures on the black runs should hire<\/b> out skis locally. When booking advanced ski courses with a focus on technique exercises, equipment hire can often be simply added to the booking.<\/p>\n
The top 5 black runs in the Alps<\/h2>\n
The Alps offer much more than just exceptional mountain panoramas as several of the world\u2019s most adventurous runs are found in the heart of Europe. \u201cDeep black\u201d runs such as the Harakiri, the Streif or the Kandahar belong to the prestigious FIS World Cup runs and guarantee a racing pulse for both the skier and the viewers.<\/p>\n
Black run skiing courses are led by experienced professionals and focus on specified race training and technique. These courses provide optimal preparation for mastering controlled skiing on high gradient slopes.<\/p>\n
The Harakiri run in Mayrhofen<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Copy-of-Skitechnik_Schwarze-Pisten_Harakiri.jpg\")
The Harakiri run in Mayrhofen has a gradient of 78% \u00a9 Archive TVB Mayrhofen\/Dominic Ebenbichler<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n The Harakiri run in Zillertal, Tirol is the steepest ski run in Austria. The 376m descent starts from a height of 1500m and its gradient is higher than that of a ski jump. Therefore it isn\u2019t such a surprise that the name stems from an old and deadly Japanese Samurai ritual.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip: <\/b>This run with its Japanese name is best conquered with the help of local ski guide, who knows the Harakiri like the back of his hand.<\/p>\n
Information about ski lessons for advanced skiers in Mayrhofen ><\/a><\/p>\n
The Streif in Kitzb\u00fchel<\/h3>\n
The Streif in Kitzb\u00fchel is definitely one of the world\u2019s most legendary ski runs<\/b>. The venue for the yearly Hahnenkamm Ski Race presents a very special challenge, even for the professionals. The former Austrian ski racer and alpine sports icon Franz Klammer won the championship title 4 times in his career.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip: <\/b>An advanced skiing course on the Streif is the first step for any adventurous skier who wants to follow in the footsteps of famous ski stars such as Franz Klammer.<\/p>\n
Details about ski lessons in Kitzb\u00fchel ><\/a><\/p>\n
The Kandahar in Garmisch-Classic<\/h3>\n
![\"Skiing-technique-black-runs-kandahar\"](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Skiing-technique-black-runs-kandahar.jpg\")
The Kandahar run has a gradient of more than 90% \u00a9 Bayerische Zugspitzbahn Bergbahn AG\/fendstudios.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n This run holds several records: A gradient of 92% (c.a. 42\u00b0) on a maximum height of 3300m. Professional skiers race down this 3,3km long run <\/b>with speeds of up to 130km\/h and master an elevation difference of 720m.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip:<\/b> Those who would rather leave out particularly steep stretches such as the \u201cFree Fall\u201d will find a solution on the Kandahar-Express. A trained ski instructor can help you work on and improve your technique, so that even the Kandahar can be skied down without too much effort.<\/p>\n
Learn more about the ski lessons in Garmisch-Classic ><\/a><\/p>\n
The Gamsleiten 2 run in Obertauern<\/h3>\n
![\"Skiing-technique-black-runs-Gamsleiten-2\"](\"https:\/\/blog-cdn.checkyeti.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Copy-of-Skitechnik_Schwarze-Pisten_Gamsleiten-2.jpg\")
The Gamsleiten 2 in Obertauern is one of the most challenging slopes in the European Alps \u00a9 Tourismusverband Obertauern<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n With gradients of 100<\/b>%<\/b> (45\u00b0) on the steepest parts of this run, even adrenaline junkies will have their full hit. Additionally, the Gamsleiten 2 is one of the steepest mogul slopes in the whole of Europe.<\/p>\n
checkyeti Tip:<\/b> Mental training is just the thing to best prepare yourself not only physically but also mentally for black runs such as the Gamsleiten 2, Experienced skiing instructors work with you on improving mental balance and concentration, both of which can be vital when skiing steep slopes.<\/p>\n
- Basic fitness as a prerequisite for a controlled descent<\/a><\/li>\n