Dual Slalom

Screenshot from Video by FIS Alpine

Overview

  • Racing in a dual slalom event is a head-to-head competition where athletes navigate through parallel courses marked by paneled slalom gates.

  • Key strategies include an explosive start, looking ahead, aiming for the shortest line through gates, focusing on one’s own race to avoid distractions and driving through the finish line.

An introduction to Dual Slalom is provided by this video.

Video by FIS Alpine

Racing Dual Slalom

  • Racing in a dual slalom event involves navigating through a course set with two parallel lines of gates, which are usually marked by panels hanging between poles.

  • This format pits two racers against each other at the same time, one on each course, adding a head-to-head competitive aspect. Here’s how to approach a dual slalom race effectively:

Equipment : Slalom Skis and Forearm Guards

In the Start Gate

Positioning: Line up your skis straight in the direction of the first gate or the initial part of the course. Keep your weight slightly forward, with your shins pressing against the front of the boots to be ready to push off.

Grip: Grip the handles firmly with both hands. Your arms should be bent and ready to extend, providing the initial thrust forward.

Screenshot from Video by FIS Alpine

Focus on the Start Signal

  • Stay focused on the starter’s signal. Reaction time is crucial, so as soon as the signal is given, you need to initiate your movement.

Explosive Start

Screenshot from Video by FIS Alpine

  • Push-off: Use your leg muscles to generate the most power. Push off strongly with your legs while simultaneously pulling on the handles to create additional forward momentum.

  • Hand and Arm Action: After the initial pull, quickly grab your poles and move your arms in the direction you intend to go, helping to stabilize and increase your speed right from the start.

Coaches Tip: Practice the action of grabbing your poles after releasing the handles, as it is not uncommon for racers to struggle with gripping their poles after the start.

Look ahead and Ski an Aggressive Line!

Look ahead to anticipate the next gate as you exit the current one. Aim to ski the shortest possible line that you can control through the gates without getting too close and risking straddling a gate.

Clearing Gates

There are two tactics for clearing panelled slalom gates: brushing the gate with the inside arm or using both hands to push the panelled gate over.

This racer is clearing the panelled slalom gate with their inside arm.

Screenshot from video by FIS Alpine

This racer uses both hands to push both poles over.

Screnshot from video by FIS Alpine

Focus on Your Race

  • Concentrate on your course and the gates directly ahead of you, rather than on your opponent. Getting distracted can lead to mistakes.

Drive to the Finish

  • Continue to race aggressively through the finish line. Even if the other racer is ahead, circumstances can change rapidly due to the adrenaline and excitement of head-to-head racing.

Screenshot from video by FIS Alpine

Key Takeaways

  1. In dual slalom racing, success hinges on having the proper equipment, mastering an explosive start technique, including the action of grabbing your poles when leaving the start gate.

  2. Racers must maintain an aggressive line, look ahead to anticipate gates early, clear gates with either their inside arm or with both hands, stay focused on their own race and drive through the finish line.

Suggested Learning Modules

Return to Slalom

Important Message: Skiing and ski racing involve inherent risks. It’s essential to ski responsibly and stay within your skill level and personal comfort limits.