GÆSTEINDLÆG: Training vertically or horizontally

One conversation was about the observation that as skiers we like to feel good when we ski. We postulated that maybe we ski our favorite runs at the same speed, turn in the same places, and even start the run from the same places because we know it will feel good. Do you do this? Do you have a favorite speed, turn shape, line?
 

Regarding training, the idea put forward was the idea of vertical versus horizontal skill development. If the skill development is vertical, we change external factors ie speed or terrain difficulty, or surface type and adjust our skills blend to accommodate the changes noted. On flat, icy terrain we need to blend skills in one way, in deep powder and narrow chutes, a different blend. The goal is always to be as efficient as possible as we descend.

If we develop horizontally, the idea is that we focus on a skill in all situations ie a centered and mobile stance at all speeds, in all turn shapes, types, snow and environmental conditions. We then understand what adjustments we need to make (i.e. to our stance) in specific situations.

The idea behind the horizontal view is that combined learning will eventually allow us to instinctively/intuitively make the changes we need to the skill blend regardless of what conditions/external factors change. (This fits well with the idea of external cues to improve performance. Talk about this idea in another article and then tie them both together in a third). This is in contrast to the vertical model which requires that we dissect and understand what combination of adjustments were needed to achieve our goal as we changed a single or multiple external factor(s).
 

Powder, bumps, groomed, green, blue, black, double black, icy, hard pack, slush, cut up snow, fast, medium, slow, big turns, short turns, wedge, situational stem, narrow runs, wide runs, rollers, blind spots, trees, glaciers, sunlight, flat light, fog, snow, wind, blowing snow, wet snow, crowded slopes, un-crowded slopes, familiar ski area, unfamiliar terrain, tuned skis, dull skis, race course, training course, gates, stubbies, brushes, - you can build a matrix/chart and prioritize the skills as it relates to the terrain and snow conditions, etc.
 

For Example: