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Toeside Side Slip (To be done on a gentle slope) The toeside side slip is more difficult than the heelside for two reasons: The toeside side slip is done in reverse with the athlete's back facing downhill, and typically balance is easier to maintain when standing on the heels. Begin at the same starting point used previously. Have the athlete clip into the board, then turtle roll into a kneeling position facing uphill. Stand above the athlete and take both hands. Assist the athlete into a standing position. Take a moment to remind the athlete of the correct body position. Tell the athlete to raise his or her heels off of the snow. When ready, assist the athlete downhill, with athlete moving backward as you move forward. The snowboard should be riding on the toeside edge while the heelside edge is up off the snow. Repeat this exercise until the athlete can perform the side slip smoothly and with good balance.   Once the athlete has shown good balance, it is time to try the side slip unassisted. As the athlete performs the toeside side slip, walk behind (uphill) to offer assistance if necessary.   Note: Both side slips should be practiced until the athlete can perform them smoothly and without assistance.       Teaching Points Keep the knees flexed, eyes up. Keep pressure on the toeside edge, equally with both feet. Release toe pressure SLOWLY; snowboard will begin to move downhill. The movement of the side slip should be a smooth, flowing motion     Faults & Fixes     Error Correction Drill Reference Athlete falls forward (uphill) Keep knees flexed Don't bend at the waist Offer hand assistance More support with magic stik Athlete catches back edge (downhill edge) of snowboard in snow Keep constant pressure on toeside edge Move to slightly steeper slope   Athlete slips too fast Apply more pressure on toeside edge   Nose or tail of the snowboard turns into the fall line Keep equal pressure on both heels

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