Side Slip Drills
Elevator Drill
Place a line of cones or other markers in two vertical lines approximately six to eight feet apart, creating a corridor down the slope. Have the athlete practice maintaining a side slip within the corridor (like an elevator moving up and down). Have the athlete practice with both the heelside and toeside until each can be completed with good balance and body position.
Side Slip with Foot Movement Drill
When the athlete can complete the side slip with good balance and body position, introduce foot movement. While hand-assisting the athlete, have him or her initiate the side slip as described above. When the board is moving downhill, have the athlete experiment by pressuring first one foot, then the other. Always remind the athlete to return to a balanced and centered position before pressuring the other foot. Unequal amounts of pressure will cause the board to begin to change direction and will affect how the athlete maintains his or her balance. Have the athlete experiment with varying amounts of foot pressure while maintaining proper body position. Be sure to practice on both the heelside and toeside.
Side Slip with Changing Speeds Drill
Have the athlete slip down the slope while consciously changing velocities by varying the amount of edge used. This should be done in a rhythmical order in response to commands given by the coach.
Side Slip in a Small and Tall Position Drill
Have the athlete do some side slips in "small and tall" position.
Side Slip to Falling Leaf Drill
Place a line of cones in two vertical lines to make a course that moves down the hill in both directions (not in a straight downhill as in the Elevator Drill). The cone line should look like a snake, forcing the athletes to side slip to the side as well as vertically. The cones should be placed in such a way that it is still possible for the athlete to move vertically if necessary.
