Identify two key cues for controlling speed on gentle slopes.

• A. Short, controlled glides with a wedge stop; quiet upper body and centered stance
• B. Long, fast glides; tense shoulders
• C. Improvised slalom without plan
• D. Frequent heavy braking with arms extended

Answer: (B)

Controlling speed on gentle slopes comes from how you manage momentum and balance. The two cues here focus on maintaining a steady glide and keeping the upper body engaged to stay stable and responsive. Long, continuous glides help you feel and regulate your momentum, letting you adjust flow rather than resorting to abrupt braking. Keeping the shoulders tense and active helps maintain a solid connection through the torso, so your upper body stays aligned with your lower body and you can react quickly if the slope changes. This combination promotes a smooth, controlled descent. The other options either encourage braking and instability (short glides with a wedge stop), lack planning and predictability (improvised slalom), or promote unsafe, aggressive braking (frequent heavy braking with arms extended).