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Track Layout:
Ski jump uses a man-made track using the natural lay of the land to reach heights necessary for the jumpers to achieve the greatest distance from take-off to landing. The track curves slightly uphill at the take-off point to gain greater heights, and curves uphill beyond the landing area to help slow down the jumper.
Distances over 110 metres (360 ft) can be reached on normal hills and over 145 metres (476 ft) on larger hills. (Ski Flying is a whole different ball-game.) ^.^
Rules/Strategy:
Skiers must meet a minimum safe body weight mass, or be penalized with a shorter maximum ski length, thus reducing the aerodynamic lift they can achieve. The only real strategy involved with ski jumping is to hit the end of the jump (take-off point) at just the right time, as getting off too late or too soon will hurt their chances of making a long jump. At the moment of take-off, skiers will want to stretch their bodies out, straightening up as quickly as they can and leaning forward (with their arms at their sides) towards the tips of their skis to reduce drag. The tips of the skis will be spread out in a V-shape to provide lift.
The landing needs to be as smooth as possible. The best way for a skier to land is in the Telemark position, where one leg is a little out in front of the other leg. The skier will straighten up for the Outrun, which is a continuation of the finish until they are able to come to a complete stop.
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