Skier Anatomy 101

Use of All Joints

There are limitless combinations of movements amongst the various joints of the body. These moves translate into the ski then into the snow.

Effective moves for most objectives will require a strategic blend using multiple joints. However, for clarity, we'll discuss the function of each joint in isolation. 

Open and Closed

In open kinetic chain movements, the segment furthest away from the body, usually the hand or foot — is free and not fixed to an object. In a closed chain exercise, it is fixed or stationary. In skiing, we're often referring to the feet while they're pushing against the snow in a closed chain, however, quite often your skis are in the air or able to slip and slide on the snow surface, moving in a open chain fashion.