Technique
Around / Between / Over Line Selection
HOW TO DO IT
Around / Between / Over Line Selection
Around, between and over are line options in a bump field, not three mandatory progression levels. Selection depends on shape, available space and rider control.
Preparation and setting
Readable terrain and controlled line changes.
Execution / practice sequence
- Inspect the immediate section and continuation.
- Identify usable routes around, through troughs or across tops.
- Choose the easiest coherent sequence.
- Place turns to prepare subsequent spaces.
- Stop or change route when the pattern changes.
How to learn / practise
Compare short planned routes without demanding the most direct path. Describe why each choice was made.
Errors and corrections
Choosing over-the-top just because it looks quicker ignores absorption and exit. Repeating one fixed route despite a changed pattern removes adaptability.
Observable checks
The rider chooses and explains a route that remains within current control.
HOW TO DO IT
Around, Between or Over: Selecting a Bump Line
These three labels describe relationships between a track and terrain. Around uses a mound's side; between uses space separating mounds; over crosses a high point. They are options, not a ranking from beginner to expert. A low broad top may be easier than an icy slot between taller bumps. Each route creates different demands. A top crossing may reduce the board's contact length and make redirection easier, while asking for better absorption and a controlled descent beyond the crest. A trough can constrain heading and increase compression. A shoulder can provide a curved supporting surface, but may end abruptly. Choose based on usable support, turn space and continuation.
Preparation and setting
The rider should already manage a short around-the-bump sequence and a grounded low crest. Inspect a small section from a safe vantage. Do not stop below a blind crest to study the next move. If the next route cannot be seen, choose a visible alternative rather than treating the unseen portion as an exercise.
Planning and execution
- Identify two plausible routes through the same short section.
- For each, state where direction will change, where speed can be regulated and where the rider can exit.
- Reject any route requiring an unlearned movement or crossing a hazard. The shortest path has no priority.
- Ride the easier route with a deliberate turn outcome. Observe actual snow support rather than assuming the surface behaves as it looks.
- Compare the actual track with the intended route from a safe stopping place.
- Try the alternative only if it remains within established controls. Otherwise document why it was rejected and keep the successful option.
Progression and transfer
As complexity grows, mix route types within a short sequence. A rider may pass beside one bump, over a small shoulder and between the next pair. Flexibility of decision is the skill. Do not impose a zipper line as a completion test for recreational all-mountain riding.
Mastery and links
explain and execute an appropriate choice without requiring all three types in every run. Related: AMTA-03, 07, 19 and 21.
Diagnostic hypotheses and rechecks
Possible causes are hypotheses to test, not diagnoses inferred from one attempt.
| Observation | Possible cause | Diagnostic exercise | Correction | Recheck |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rider follows every trough regardless of exit | Habit mistaken for route planning | AD05, identify a shoulder alternative | Select turns by continuation, not groove alone | Chosen route has room for the following turn |
| Top crossing produces uncontrolled drop | Crest chosen without inspecting far side | Inspect from a safe position | Use lower shoulder or different section | Entire exit is visible and within control |
| Route changes at the last instant | Gaze too close or plan too long | Shorten to two decisions | Scan one usable space beyond the immediate turn | Fewer urgent corrections |
Existing target
AM25-05
Methodology notes
M02, M03
Environmental boundary
Managed terrain only; preserve the stated exit and fallback.
Editorial status
detailed_text_draft; coaching review pending.
SOURCE-BACKED DETAIL
Characteristics
- Record type
- tactic
01
editorial review notes
S1 emphasizes routing around bumps; S2 combines routes — options, not incompatible universal rules.
CONNECTED KNOWLEDGE