Technique
Retraction in Carved Turns
GLOSSARY
In advanced carving, the AASI guide lists retraction — pulling the legs up toward the body to release the edge — alongside up- and down-unweighting as a way to change edges.
Context and distinction
The guide keeps the three strategies separate, and so does the Bible.
Explore the glossary →HOW TO DO IT
Retraction in Carved Turns
Retraction draws the legs toward the torso to help release and reposition the board. The board's motion relative to the body is central; a low posture alone does not prove the strategy.
Preparation and setting
An established flexed-transition task and gentle terrain.
Execution / practice sequence
- Complete a supported arc.
- Bring the legs inward during release.
- Allow the board to move toward the new-edge position beneath a comparatively organised torso.
- Re-establish contact progressively.
- Finish with movement available.
How to learn / practise
Compare a modest retraction with a familiar extension-based transition. Track the leg sequence, not just head height.
Errors and corrections
Collapsing the whole torso instead of retracting legs: reduce range and reorganise support. Edge remains locked: revisit release timing. Do not assume every down-unweighted turn is identical.
Observable checks
The release and board-under-body movement are deliberate, with a controlled next arc.
SOURCE-BACKED DETAIL
Characteristics
- School / framework
- AASI (2022)
- Movement strategy
- retraction
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editorial review notes
The three labels are kept distinct as in the source.