SkiA Designs Ltd, based in Lancashire, has launched the SkiA Sweetspot Trainer – a revolutionary new device consisting of specially designed balance blocks that clip to the underneath of a skier’s boot to line up exactly with the location of the “sweetspot,” helping to improve balance and coordination.
This unique training device shows skiers how to find their “sweetspot” resulting in better balance, smoother turns and a more professional style
By wearing the trainer, skiers can practice on the balance blocks away from the slopes so that when they hit the snow, their balance and coordination on the sweetspot is dramatically improved.
Martin Breach, Director for SkiA Designs and inventor of the device explains; “Using the sweetspot is the best-kept secret in skiing. Many skiers are unaware of its importance and may mistakenly believe that it is found under the ball of the foot, or even under the toes. In fact, it is right in the center of the foot.
“Expert skiers know that balance on the sweetspot is essential for good style, control and performance. Modern skis and boots are designed to work around this point, and using the sweetspot requires much less effort – which greatly reduces fatigue and muscle pain, making skiing at any speed much safer. The Sweetspot Trainer allows skiers to find and balance on exactly the right point for their skis to work perfectly.”
The Sweetspot Trainer was developed with Hugh Monney – founder of the British Alpine Ski School (BASS) who commented; “The SkiA Sweetspot Trainer gives skiers the opportunity to improve their balance and coordination in a very sophisticated way. After a few minutes practice on the trainers, skiers benefit from a very clear and specific understanding of what it means to balance skilfully on skis. This is an insight that can elude even very experienced skiers. The Sweetspot Trainers will take users directly to this new experience.”
Each pair of SkiA Sweetspot Trainers includes four different sized balance blocks – green (beginner), blue (intermediate), red (advanced) and black (expert). By using the trainer, beginners can progress quickly from snowplough to parallel turns, while intermediates can refine their technique, learning how to make effective turns in all conditions and developing the skills needed for advanced skiing. Expert skiers can also use the Sweetspot Trainer to practice and perfect their skills in preparation for racing or off-piste skiing.
The Sweetspot Trainer also comes with a detailed instruction manual written by Hugh Monney that offers advice and tips on how to improve ski techniques in all areas of the sport.
James Lamb, BASI International Ski Teacher and Director of BASS Morzine added; “Great skiing depends upon great balance, yet most skiers are unaware of how to balance accurately. The SkiA Sweetspot Trainer is a fantastic tool for developing the natural, coordinated movements necessary for skilful skiing and directing them through specific balance targets. The Sweetspot Trainer is a powerful training aid that will benefit every single skier, regardless of ability.”
The Sweetspot Trainer has been tested and approved by former British Ski Racing Squad coach, Chris Hill – who has used it with racers attending training camps of the British Alpine Ski Racing Club.