Telemark skiing is also know as free-heeled skiing. In contrast to the skis used for alpine skiing, Telemark ski bindings do not attach at the heel. Thus, the term "free-heeled skiing."
Telemark Skiing History
Telemark skiing gets its name from the region where it was developed; the Telemark region of Norway. In 1868, a local farmer by the name of Sondre Norheim was credited for developing a smooth, fluid turn, which was eventually called the Telemark turn.
The Telemark Ski
Eventually, Norheim invented the curved ski, as well as bindings that connected to the ski with willow heel bands. Although the ski manufacturer Elan is usually credited with "inventing" the shaped ski, Norheim actually developed the idea over 100 years earlier.
The Telemark Turn
Upon initiation of a Telemark turn, the outside or downhill ski is placed slightly ahead of the inside or uphill ski as it moves in the direction of the turn. Meanwhile, the heel of the inside ski is lifted, and the knee is bent as if performing a lunge.
The Telemark Revival
While nobody is absolutely certain of what prompted the Telemark skiing revival in the United States, some credit it to the "back to nature" movement of the 1970s. Apparently, a group of skiers at Crested Butte, in Colorado, wanted to experience natural snow, which did not exist within the confines of the resort. Since traditional alpine skis were not sufficient for the deep snow in the backcountry area, they used Telemark skis.
Telemark Today
As more people become interested in backcountry skiing, many found that Telemark skis are more efficient for climbing, since they are not attached at the heels.
About The Author
Lisa Marie Mercer is the author of "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness," "101 Fitness Tips for Women," "Breckenridge: A Guide to the Sights and Slopes of Summit County" and a novel, "Reflections in the Snow." She's been a fitness professional since the '70s, and has lived in New York City, Boston and Italy.
