Ski Jumping

Ski jumping is an amazing winter sport. Skiers go down a long slide called an inrun. At the bottom, they jump off the edge. Then they fly through the air for a long way. They try to land safely on the snowy hill below.

How They Fly

Ski jumpers wear long, wide skis. In the air, they spread their skis into a V shape. This helps them float longer. They lean forward so their body is almost flat. The best jumpers can fly more than 750 feet, which is longer than two football fields.

Scoring

Judges give scores for how far the jumper goes and how well they land. A good landing is called a telemark. The jumper puts one foot forward and bends their knees. Ski jumping is part of the Winter Olympics. Both men and women now compete.

Fun Facts

• Ski jumping started in Norway in the 1800s.
• Jumpers fly at over 60 miles per hour.
• The largest hills are called ski flying hills.

Did You Know?

Ski jumpers only land on snow that is shaped like a hill, which makes the landing feel softer even from very high in the air.