by Marie Harger |
“Before I begin, I close my eyes and visualize the perfect JUMP in my mind three times, then I open my eyes and go!” As one of the top 10 U.S. Nordic combined skiers, (cross country and ski jumping combined) of his time, Peter Kendrick remembers the joy, thrill and freedom of ski jumping and landing that “Perfect Jump.”
Peter grew up in Colorado and began his skiing career at the age of two. By the time he was twelve he was ski jumping. He competed in ski jumping, cross-country ski racing, and Slalom, giant Slalom and downhill racing.
Most coaches will emphasis the importance of building a solid foundation with the basics and fundamentals of your sport, and in that regard Peter is no different. To be the best you must gain experience by taking baby steps. Spend time on the basic skills and fundamentals when you are first learning, and then, as your skill and ability evolves, warm-up with the basics.
Another important component to being the best at your sport is attitude. Peter knows his state of mind is a major factor to the outcome of his performance. Whether your performance is lacking or at its best, be positive, and believe in yourself because in the end this will be what is the difference between first place and second.
To actually jump, go for small jumps, and easy simple tricks. To avoid injuries, always warm-up and stretch before you attempt any jump. Develop flexibility and believe in yourself. You must also learn how to fall. This sounds crazy but falling is part of the game. Learn to roll instead of trying to stop yourself. When landing your jump, be sure to land in the middle of your board and think of a soft landing. If you land hard you will either chatter (when the ski edges skip sideways along the snow and you are not making solid contact) or bounce, which will throw your rhythm off. Land loose, relaxed and smooth. Do not get too serious or uptight, it will impede your progress. Be safe and jump in areas that are designated for that activity, such as snow parks and competition areas.
If competing, two nights before your competition try to get plenty of sleep. Whole food nutrition will contribute to optimal performance, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods that nourish the body (avoid junk food).
Other helpful ideas are to attend a camp. Camps will expose you to different coaches and you will learn new techniques. Also, a major advantage is to cross-train with other sports. Often the skills learned from other sports will enhance your ability in your preferred sport.
Finally, remember to put in the training with a smile. Then jump for joy and experience the thrilland freedom of the “Perfect Jump.”
