Using Zero-Off Settings as a training aid

[Kelvin]

As of this fall, we now have Zero-Off in the new SN200.  My son (a new Boys 3 skier) has been skiing on the B2 setting in tournaments - mainly because we never had the opportunity to practice behind ZO to experiment with different settings.  This fall was the first chance to play with different settings - althought not very much.  With the coaching he has received over the past couple of years, he's been told to hold his pull just a touch longer behind the boat and past the second wake.  One set on ZO we used A1 and A2 settings.  With those settings, he was not able to get wide enough to get around the buoys on his harder passes (22 and 28 off - 36mph).  After thinking about it for a few months, it is starting to make sense.  A settings give more of the pull into the buoy and he is giving up good ski position before that point.   With that background - do you guys think it would make sense for him to practice more using these A settings to force him to stay on the handle longer?  All thoughts and comments appreciated.

 Kelvin

[6balls]

I would choose a setting he likes and work on the handle control/body position rather than trying to have a ZO setting try to mold the skier.  Envious of your new 200!   

[scoke]

Kelvin,

 

It sounds like he has quite a ways to go before he isn't skiing at 36 any more.

 

Most, in general, 36mph guys are skiing on C due to the differences in technique and speed needed vs 34mph.

 

I've seen your son ski; strong skier and impressive. He is progressing there is no doubt about that.

 

IMO, i'd think about migrating him more towards C slowly obviously starting with B.

 

 

scoke.

[eleeski]

I would go to the extremes if you want to really feel differences. 36 is hard enough, you don't have to make it worse with a setting that doesn't work. It sounds like C3 might suit him well. At very deep shortline A might help. If it is fun, absolutely mix up the letters. Eventually the letter won't make a difference.

Eric