Ski 180.

1. On a gentle slope, glide straight at a slow, steady speed (just fast enough not to stall), keeping both skis flat on the snow.

   If you tip onto an edge, the skis will catch at takeoff, so keep the full base of the skis in contact with the snow.

2. Decide your spin direction first.

   If you turn more easily to the right, spin right; if to the left, spin left (this guide uses a right spin, so reverse left and right for a left spin). Get ready to send your eyes toward where you want to look after the spin, which is the direction you will travel facing backward.

3. Just before takeoff, bend your knees and sink slightly.

   Keep your weight centered over both feet, over the arches, without leaning forward or back. This sink loads the legs so you can spring up and lift the skis next.

4. From that sunk position, extend both legs to press the snow and lift the skis.

   As you push off, lead with your right shoulder and head toward the spin direction (back and to the right). When the upper body leads, the hips follow a beat later, then the legs and skis chase the turn. The motion passes through the body in order, so it is far easier than forcing the spin with your legs alone.

5. In the air, pull both arms in close to your body and make yourself compact.

   Your spin momentum is set the instant you leave the snow and cannot be added mid-air. Spreading your limbs slows the spin; tucking them in lets the same momentum carry you around faster.

6. Once you have come around 180 degrees, land on the full base of the skis with your legs extended, then soften your knees the moment you touch down to absorb the impact.

   Letting the ankles and knees soak up the landing keeps you from getting bounced.

7. You land riding backward (switch).

   Keep your eyes on your direction of travel (forward while facing backward), stay evenly weighted on both feet, and glide away in switch.

You can pin your own clip to the tricks you've landed (My Video).