The name 'basic swing' covers a variety of turns, depending on the exact point at which the skis are matched. As you gain familiarity, you will be able to introduce the parallel skid earlier and earlier.

In North America, basic swings are known as wedge or elementary christies (any turn that involves skidding is called a christie). Whatever the name, it is an extremely versatile turn: mastering the basic swing will give you the freedom of your ski area and lay the groundwork for parallel turns and more advanced ski techniques.

Many skiers progress naturally into the basic swing as they perform snowplough or stem turns with more speed. In a fast snowplough or stem turn, your inside ski is almost unweighted and flat on the snow. Allow it to drift in, parallel to your outside ski, and the result is a basic swing turn.

Start in a shallow traverse in the standard traverse stance.	Push out both skis into a gliding snowplough.	Sink slightly and steer your skis into the fall line, edging your outside ski strongly and allowing the pressure to shift off your inside ski.
Bring your inside ski parallel to your outside ski.	Continue the turn in a controlled, parallel skid. Keep the pressure firmly on your outside ski.	Rise back up into the standard traverse position ready for the next turn. Photos: ifyouski.com]

Tips

• The secret to matching your skis lies in allowing the pressure to transfer fully to the outside ski. If you are still encountering difficulties, try lifting your inside heel and pivoting the ski about its tip.
• The skidded stage should feel similar to sideslipping: balance against the edges of your skis as they skid over the snow. This means allowing your skis to move to the outside of the turn, while your weight follows a shorter path. This is called angulation, of which more later.
• Avoid using your shoulders to initiate the turn. Start the turn by steering with your feet, and your skis will do all the work for you.
• Don't worry about your poles. This form of basic swing does not have a sharp initiation, so a pole plant is not yet necessary.
• As you gain in confidence, cut out the traverse between turns. Get into a rhythm: rise and plough, match and sink.

Exercises

• Can you lift your inside ski as you match and keep it off the snow until the turn is complete? This is the real test of whether you are transferring pressure effectively to the outside ski.
• Match your skis earlier in the turn. Can you bring them together before they reach the fall line?