Ski Jumping Acclimatization

Ski Jumping Acclimatization

Suggestions for various activities for ski jumping acclimatization.

  • 6+ years
  • Group size: 1+
  • Duration: 30 min
  • Alternative physical activities
  • Snow / ice
  • Skis

For participants who have not ski jumped before, a gradual approach is important. For jumping to be enjoyable, they must feel safe and at the same time feel a 'thrill'. It should be challenging, but not too difficult.

Below are suggestions for simple introductory exercises for the least experienced ski jumpers:

  • take a small run-up and glide gently over the jump
  • take a slightly larger run-up and glide over the jump
  • adjust speed and try to push off a little on the jump
  • increase speed and push off more on the jump
  • adjust speed and gradually increase the push-off

Work on seating position:

  • practice seating position (bend at hips and knees, low center of gravity)
  • ski in a seating position down a gentle slope
  • take a small run-up, sit in seating position, stand up on the jump and glide over
  • take a small run-up, sit in seating position and glide over the jump
  • seating position + small run-up + small push-off on the jump
  • adjust speed and push off more and more
  • try to jump a little further each run
  • take a small run-up, don't push off, but focus on landing (try to stand steadily)
  • push off a little more, glide over the jump and land

Progression

Once participants are more comfortable on the slope, you can add extra challenges to increase difficulty and fun:

  • ski over the jump with closed eyes (on short, safe jumps and under good supervision)
  • ski over the jumps while swinging your arms
  • jump two by two together, while holding hands
  • jump over with only one ski
  • jump two by two, one ski each
  • try a 360-degree turn (small jumps, playful)
  • try various 'tricks', for example small twists or arm movements
  • try the 'tuck': pull your legs well up under you in the air
  • the 'copycat game' in the jump track: one jumps first, the other mimics the movements
  • set up 'gates' on the jumps – children must go through the gate before jumping
  • set up bell poles before the jump – children must touch the bell before jumping

Always adjust speed, jump height, and task according to the skill level and safety of the group.