Freestyle skiing has grown from a fringe sport into a major part of the Winter Olympics.
Each discipline is judged or timed differently.
The main disciplines
- ▸Moguls — skiing a bumpy course with two jumps; judged on turns, air, and speed
- ▸Aerials — launching off kickers to perform flips and twists
- ▸Slopestyle — rails, boxes, and jumps on a course
- ▸Halfpipe — tricks in a U-shaped pipe
- ▸Big air — a single large jump
- ▸Ski cross — head-to-head racing on a course with jumps and turns
Judging
Judged events score difficulty, execution, amplitude, and variety. Moguls also includes a speed component.
Ski cross
Ski cross is racing rather than judged. Four to six skiers race together, with the top finishers advancing through heats to the final.
Watching tips
In judged events, look for clean landings, big height, and tricks performed in both directions. Small errors on landing can cost a lot.
This is general sports information and commentary. Rules, schedules, and records change — check official league, federation, and event sources for the latest details. Consult a qualified coach or medical professional before starting a new training programme.