parallellkjøres

Parallellkjøring, a Norwegian term, translates to "parallel driving" or "parallel skiing." In the context of skiing, it refers to a technique where a skier keeps their skis parallel to each other throughout the turn, rather than the traditional wedge or "pizza" shape. This technique is fundamental to modern skiing and is the basis for all advanced turns.

The core of parallellkjøring involves a coordinated movement of the legs, ankles, and feet to initiate and control the turn. Instead of pushing the skis outwards to create a wedge, the skier uses edge control and body rotation to guide the skis through the arc. This requires precise control of the ski edges, which are angled into the snow to grip and steer. As the skier transitions from one turn to the next, there is a brief moment where the skis are parallel and moving across the fall line.

Mastering parallellkjøring allows for greater speed and maneuverability on various snow conditions and terrains. It is the foundation upon which other techniques, such as carving and short-radius turns, are built. The development of parallellkjøring revolutionized skiing, moving it from a more utilitarian form of transport to a dynamic sport. It is typically taught after a skier has a basic understanding of stopping and turning using a wedge.