To maximize horizontal speed, jumpers lift out of the back of their bindings on takeoff. They lean forward so that their bodies are almost parallel to their skis. That minimizes the size of their frontal area and therefore air resistance, or drag, enabling them to sustain much of their initial takeoff speed.
The position of the skis during a jump is controversial. Some jumpers swear by the V position, which is thought to simulate a delta wing, in which swirling air coming off the wing increases lift. Others believe in offsetting the skis relative to the body to increase the effective “wing area” and increase lift. Holden says he has found little difference between the two positions.
