Cant

Table of Contents

The Art of Edging

In the exhilarating world of skiing, where gravity and momentum intertwine to create a symphony of motion, the ability to control one's skis is paramount. At the heart of this control lies the concept of canting, a technique that involves tilting the skis onto their edges to carve precise turns and maintain stability on varying terrain. Canting, or edging, is a fundamental skill that every skier, from novice to expert, must master to unlock the full potential of their skiing experience.

What is Canting?

Canting, in the context of skiing, refers to the act of angling the skis onto their edges. This is achieved by tilting the ankles, knees, and hips in a coordinated manner, causing the skis to deviate from a flat base and engage their sharp metal edges with the snow. The degree of canting, or edge angle, can vary depending on the desired turn shape, speed, and snow conditions.

The Mechanics of Canting

Canting is a complex movement that involves the coordination of multiple muscle groups and joints.

1. Ankle Flexion and Extension: The ankles play a crucial role in initiating and controlling the canting movement. By flexing the ankles inward, the skier tilts the skis onto their inside edges, while extending the ankles outward tilts the skis onto their outside edges.

2. Knee Angulation: The knees act as a hinge, allowing the skier to further increase the edge angle by bending them inwards or outwards. This movement, known as knee angulation, complements the ankle movement and contributes to a deeper and more powerful carve.

3. Hip Angulation: The hips provide the final element of canting. By tilting the hips in the direction of the turn, the skier can further increase the edge angle and maintain balance throughout the maneuver.

The harmonious interplay of these three joints is essential for effective canting. The skier must learn to move them in synchrony, adjusting the degree of canting based on the terrain, snow conditions, and desired turn shape.

The Importance of Canting

Canting serves several critical functions in skiing:

1. Turning: Canting is the primary mechanism for initiating and controlling turns. By tilting the skis onto their edges, the skier creates a point of resistance against the snow, allowing them to change direction and carve graceful arcs down the slope.

2. Stability and Control: Canting provides stability and control by increasing the ski's contact area with the snow. The edges bite into the surface, preventing the skis from sliding sideways and enabling the skier to maintain balance even at high speeds or on steep terrain.

3. Speed Control: Canting also plays a role in speed control. By increasing the edge angle, the skier creates more friction against the snow, effectively slowing their descent. This is especially important on steep or icy slopes, where maintaining control is paramount.

Mastering the Art of Canting

Canting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. It requires a combination of physical strength, flexibility, and coordination. Here are some tips for improving your canting technique:

• Focus on Fundamentals: Start by practicing basic movements like ankle flexion and extension on flat terrain. Gradually progress to gentle slopes and incorporate knee and hip angulation as you gain confidence.

• Use Visual Cues: Pay attention to your body position and the angle of your skis. Use visual cues, such as the horizon or trees, to help you maintain balance and control.

• Seek Professional Instruction: Consider taking ski lessons from a qualified instructor. They can provide personalized feedback and drills to help you refine your canting technique.

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The key to mastering any skill is consistent practice. Spend time on the slopes experimenting with different edge angles and turn shapes. The more you practice, the more natural and intuitive canting will become.

Conclusion

Canting is an essential skill for any skier who wants to experience the full thrill and freedom of the sport. It is the key to unlocking precise turns, maintaining stability, and controlling speed on varying terrain. While mastering canting takes time and dedication, the rewards are immeasurable. By honing your technique and embracing the challenge, you can carve your own path down the mountain with grace, confidence, and a newfound appreciation for the art of edging.

References:

• PSIA-AASI. (n.d.). The Fundamentals of Skiing & Snowboarding. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed]
• You Can Ski. (n.d.). Canting and Angulation: The Keys to Expert Skiing. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed]
• Ski Mag. (2019). 5 Drills to Improve Your Edging Skills. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed]