The spelling of "stem turn" is straightforward if you know the IPA phonetic transcription. The word starts with the sound "st" (represented by /st/ in IPA), followed by the vowel sound "ɛ" (represented by /ɛ/ in IPA), and ends with the consonant sound "m" (/m/ in IPA). The second word starts with the consonant sound "t" (/t/ in IPA), followed by the vowel sound "ɜː" (/ɜː/ in IPA), and ends with the consonant sound "n" (/n/ in IPA). Together, the word is pronounced as /stɛm tɜːn/.
A stem turn is a skiing technique used to change direction and control speed while descending a slope. It involves a simultaneous rotating and sliding movement of the skis, allowing the skier to initiate a turn. The term "stem" refers to the positioning of the skis during this maneuver.
In a stem turn, the skier begins by assuming a snowplow position, with the tips of the skis pointing inward and the tails apart. By pushing the heels of the skis outwards while keeping the tips together, the skier creates friction and starts to slide down the slope. This sliding motion initiates the turn.
The stem turn is characterized by a deliberate and controlled movement, making it particularly useful in tight and confined spaces or in situations where a slower speed is desired. By applying pressure on the inside edge of the uphill ski and simultaneously pushing out with the downhill ski, the skier can control the rate and shape of the turn.
This technique is commonly taught to beginners as it provides a solid foundation for learning how to execute turns effectively. As skiers progress, they typically transition to using parallel turns, where the skis maintain an equal distance throughout the turn. However, the stem turn remains a vital skill, especially in challenging conditions or for mastering more advanced techniques such as carving.
The word "stem turn" is a compound phrase that combines the words "stem" and "turn".
The word "stem" originated from the Old Norse word "stemma", meaning "the stern" or "the end of a ship". It later extended to refer to the back or rear part of various objects. In skiing or snowboarding, the word "stem" specifically refers to a technique where the heel of one ski (or snowboard) is pushed outwards while the tip is angled inwards, creating a wedge shape with the skis/snowboard. This technique is employed to slow down or control speed.
The word "turn" comes from the Old English word "tūrnian", which means "to rotate" or "to revolve".