WaterSki Magazine

An out-of-balance position raises the blood pressure and creates a fight-or-flight response. This inherent trait exists in all sports. The body’s internal compass is alert, and when we sense minute changes in balance, we’re forced to react.

A controlled action as opposed to an involuntary reaction may depend on how you stand over the ski. Stand forward or stand back on the ski — what is the proper stance? Imagine for a moment that you are one-legged. Which binding would you put your foot into? The obvious answer is the front binding. The broad part of the ski under the front binding provides a stable platform conducive to balance. Even getting up with one leg in the back boot would be a daunting task. That is why standing centered over the ski in an axis position with your head over hips and hips over feet provides great stability compared with standing with your weight in front or behind your feet.

Next time you’re out on the water, stand up over your ski and use its length to your benefit and allow the width and bevels to do their job supporting your weight. When you ski balanced, an enhanced visual perspective gives the mind an almost sonar-like ability to judge distance, speed and angle, and you’ll be well on your way to great performances.