Can you do one on a tramp yet? Have you tried?
If the answer is yes, you are ready, but you must be 100 % committed to doing it. If you hesitate or chicken out, your going to hurt yourself.
Pick a spot away from the main runs and away from the ski patrol. Make sure you have enough room for a steep run into the jump, and a steep landing, as well as enough room for a run out. You and your friends will need to get their shovels out and start digging.
Jumps are built to either throw you up, or to throw you out. You will be building a jump to throw you up, with a 'Kicker'. A 'Kicker' throws you up and back at the same time. Too many people now call all jumps Kickers, you will be building a 'Back Kicker'. This will have you leaving the jump already in a 'laid out' position.
The mechanics are the same as on the trampoline. Arms out for balance,throw your head back with your back arched, look for the landing, spot the landing and prepare to absorb.
If you do this on a fresh snow day it helps. because the landings are so much softer. If you have a friend that can already do it, watch him first. Remember that 'where your head goes your body will follow'. You've got to look for the landing.
The first time you do it is such a rush. It will get easier each time. Most people can learn them in one day. Remember: Commit 100%, Throw your head back and arch, spot the landing.
Good luck!
'Ski To Be Free'
