Skiing In

This hour of intensive lessons from veteran ski instructor Lito Tejada-Flores puts the focus on two areas feared by many intermediate skiers: skiing over bumps and in heavy powder. Tejada-Flores begins with some words to build confidence, stating that "mastering bumps" can be done if some fundamental skills are learned and practiced, and with careful study "you can ski bumps better than you ever imagined." After a quick review of some principles covered in the first tape of this program, Tejada-Flores begins showing films of skiers practicing "bump turns," as the principles of turning are central to safely navigating bumps. The films are shot very well, with occasional graphic overlays demonstrating the "exit lines" a skier can choose when traversing a bump. There is even some footage of a skier making obvious mistakes, so the student can learn from his bad example. The section of skiing powder begins with Tejada-Flores noting that one must visualize skiing "inside the snow" rather than on top of it, and all the basics of turning in deep powder are covered in a series of detailed lessons. It goes without saying that considerable practice following the viewing of these tapes would be required to fully develop the skills shown, but the lessons on the tape are very detailed and would provide a great foundation for learning. Also included is a booklet that essentially duplicates the information on the video. --Robert J. McNamara