32 Degrees: Improve Tethering for a Better Bi-Ski Experience

Introduction

• Author: Trevor Hildebrand
• Published: Fall 2022 issue of 32 Degrees
• Source: 32 Degrees Magazine
• Focus: Improving bi-ski experiences through effective tethering techniques.

Goals of Adaptive Instructors

• Promote independence in skiing or riding movements.
• Provide assistance as needed, especially in bi-skiing using various types of outriggers.

Importance of Tethering

• Tethering allows students to be more involved in their skiing experience.
• Tethering is controllable and teachable, impacting the student's experience.

Starting a Run Successfully

• A successful start is crucial to avoid complications during the run.
• Applies to bi-skiing with fixed or handheld outriggers, requiring moderate tethering assistance.

Preventing Whiplash and Wobbles

• Tethering requires days to weeks of guided practice.
• Cause-and-effect relationships in instructor performance directly influence student experience.
• Hands-off Transition: From holding the ski to establishing tether connection.
  • Whiplash Issue: Occurs due to slack in tethers causing unnatural acceleration/deceleration.
  • Oscillation Issue: Caused by improper ski positioning or unequal tether tension, leading to dangerous wobbles.

Tactics for Transition to Tethers

• Fixes for Whiplash and Oscillation: Called "Hip-Hip, Flippity-Flip."
• Dual-discipline method: Different positioning for skiers and snowboarders.

Steps for "Hip-Hip, Flippity-Flip"

1. Hip: Point bi-ski down the fall line, ensure tethers have minimal slack, tension the tether toward the hip.
2. Hip: Ensure bi-skier is centered and stable, tension the second tether similarly.
3. Flippity-Flip: Apply braking, unwrap tethers smoothly, maintaining tension with circular hand movements.

Snowboarders Additional Option

1. Start with seat-assisting, tethers wrapped with minimal slack.
2. Hip: Pull left tether taut.
3. Hip: Pull right tether taut.
4. Flippity-Flip: Unwrap tethers into position, maintain tension.

Benefits of the Method

• Smooth maneuvering for both instructor and student.
• Prevents oscillations and whiplash.
• Keeps the tetherer in control.
• Quick execution: 1.5 to 3 seconds.

Conclusion

• Tethering is a challenging skill requiring focused practice.
• Early-season training is an ideal time for skill development.
• Collaboration with trainers and clinic leaders is encouraged.

About the Author

• Trevor Hildebrand: Adaptive snowboard and alpine instructor, based in Whitefish, Montana.

by Dr. Todd Schleusner