To be more precise, observe the duration, intensity, rate, and timing (DIRT) of body movements, along with ski action. Also take note of the direction of the movement or action.
- Duration is the length of time a movement occurs. A skier may extend his or her legs throughout the first half of a turn, or shorten the extension duration by applying it only within the initiation phase of the turn.
- Intensity refers to the amount of power given to a movement. A skier hopping in the air at the start of a turn will extend his or her body with greater intensity than if she wanted to maintain ski-to-snow contact.
- Rate is the speed at which movement occurs. Edging movements occur at a faster rate in short-radius turns than long-radius turns.
- Timing refers to when movement occurs. A skier may edge skis at turn initiation or delay the timing and not edge the skis until the shaping or finish phase.
- Direction of movement can be observed relative to the slope, the turn, or the ski orientation. Through turn initiation, a skier may direct the CM down the hill, toward the apex of the turn, or along the length of the skis.