Ski Jumping (414)

Ski jumping has been around since the early 1800s. Ski jumping combines aerodynamics and a pair of brass ones. Ski jumping is usually performed during the winter, but recent technology allows us to do it on plastic during the summer. Ski Jumping is a pretty simple sport; go off a ramp and try to glide in the air above the hill for a distance. The distances are created into a point score and the person with the most points at the end of the competition win.

 

 

A ski jump starts at what is called the in-run. You slide onto a start bar at the top of the ramp with your skis in the "grooves". The groves are exactly what they sound like. The groves create a track for your skis to insure that you are going in the right direction (as you have no poles for balance or maneuvering) as well as creating an even playing field. Your jump will start at the top of the ramp to maximize your gravitational potential energy. Push off the start pole with your arms and get in a  tuck position to ensure that you reach maximum speed by making sure that you are as aerodynamic as possible. Keep your skis in the center of the grooves to avoid any unwanted friction on the sides of the grooves. This friction is unwanted because it will slow you down and make your jump shorter.

 

As you reach the bottom of the ramp, explosively extend your legs and jump up and out. Your speed, and power will determine how far you jump. While you're in the air, you should adopt a spread eagle-esk stance with your legs outward, but with your arms at your side for balance. This will prolong your flight and ensure that you get your maximum potential jump.

 

When you start your land, bring your skis out of the split-position and put them underneath your body and over your legs. Bend your knees and lean back when bracing for impact. You will be going very fast, so after recovery you should slow down quickly. You've now just done a ski jump. Hopefully you went 250 meters.

Remember: The ski jump is potentially one of the most harmful sports around if you are not a properly trained veteran. While you’re up in the air for that long, wind is a huge factor that must be considered. Be careful and get a proper coach before trying any of this stuff.