Moguls – The slope sets the tempo. The skier follows.
Skiing over bumps may seem a little odd at first but the discipline strikes the perfect balance of freestyle showmanship and skilful control.
Moguls has been a long-standing feature of freestyle skiing at the Olympics. It was first seen as a test event way back at Calgary 1988, before becoming an official medal sport at the 1992 games.
Moguls takes place on a steep hill full of specially constructed bumps which athletes ski down. Each course also has two jumps and it’s unique in that the event is both timed and judged. Every skier gets a time which converts into points, with the judges scoring the turns and the jumps to get the total score. 60% of the total comes from the turns, 20% from the jumps and 20% for the time.
Moguls is perfect for: skiers who like a challenge and are thrilled by being on the edge.
A run down a moguls course is among the most demanding and unforgiving terrains.
There is no quick shortcut to becoming at home with the discipline but learning to ski moguls is not only epic and something to set you from the crowd, but can also go a long way in improving your overall skiing.
The balance, flexibility and quick reactions moguls requires are sure to improve your skiing on piste, in powder, racing and when faced with challenging snow conditions.
Developing your ability in bumpy terrains will give you the confidence of a skilful skier and cruising through mogul runs will make you look like you’ve mastered the mountains.
#MOGULSATHOME
You can try moguls in England! Both Chill Factore and Snozone, Castleford build moguls on a monthly basis. Norfolk Snowsports Club and Kendal Snowsports Club also have moguls as well so check out their websites for when the next bumps build is taking place.
Interested in having a go? We can help set you on your moguls journey:
If you ski moguls yourself, share your photos with us at: iliyana@snowsportengland.org.uk
All you need to know:
1. What ability does a skier need to be in order to be able to have a go?
You need to be an intermediate skier. Be able to ski down the normal slope at an indoor centre. Be able to link turns together consistently. As important as you ability is your attitude and willing to give it a go.
2. Why is moguls a skilful discipline?
It adds challenge to the slope and you need to be able to adjust to maintain your posture and balance as you navigate the moguls. Managing speed in the bumps and maintaining the rhythm is tough and can take time to master.
3. What kind of an athlete does it suit?
Someone who wants to push themselves and willing to try something new. Also, you will need the confidence to be able to jump, so being athletic and flexible helps hugely.
Alpine racers who have the skiing skills from slalom but aren’t afraid to go big on the jumps are well-suited to moguls.
4. One unique thing about moguls:
For competition, it is a unique position of being timed as well and judged, it blends so many different aspects of skiing together.
5. Benefits of being able to ski moguls to the recreational skier
It helps your balance and posture on your skis and you can learn the skill in England.
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