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Falling Before you begin the on-snow portion, it is important to teach your athlete the proper way to fall. Falls are a natural part of snowshoeing and falling in the correct way can prevent injury. Take some time to talk to your athlete, letting them know that it is OK for a fall to occur. By practicing falling an athlete will become less apprehensive if a fall does occur. Be sure that the athlete also has all of the proper protective equipment prior to practicing falls.   90% of the injuries from falling in snowshoeing are to the wrist and shoulder. Most of these injuries happen when a snowboarder falls forward in the incorrect way. Practice these movements side by side with your athlete. Start on your knees and let yourself fall forward onto your forearms. Catch your weight with the forearms away from the body slightly with the elbows bent (picture of starting and falling positions). Allow your forearms to touch the ground first. Try to resist reaching out toward the ground, or placing the hands out in front. As contact is made, absorb the fall with your arms. You may want to practice this movement with your athlete until he or she is completely comfortable with the movement.     Skill Progression Your Athlete Can: Never Sometimes Often Fall safely Be aware of arm and hand placement when falling   Teaching Points Emphasize that falling can be safe. Emphasize keeping elbows bent and close to body when falling. Teach athlete how to tuck and roll (roll on shoulder). Make sure the athlete is not physically injured.   Faults & Fixes Chart   Error Correction Drill Reference Athlete does not fall correctly Teach athlete how to fall Fall on command while running Athlete falls with arms extended Teach athlete to keep elbows bent and close to body Fall on command while stationary

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