When running _straight downhill_ in either normal or Telemark position either foot may lead, and you should change about, when practising, until you find you can lead as easily with one as with the other. When _traversing_ in _normal_ position the upper foot should lead, in _Telemark_ position, the lower foot--that is to say, that in traversing the _weighted_ foot should _always_ be the _lower_ one.
The more weight is carried by the lower ski, the less difficulty will you find in keeping the other one close to the side of it.
Should the upper ski show a tendency to run uphill, away from the other, put no more weight on it, but merely turn its inner edge slightly downwards, and press on the toe, when it will run back to its proper position.
If you have any difficulty in preventing it from running downwards, and crossing the other, you can slide it to the rear, and drop into Telemark position, lower foot leading.
Although, generally speaking, you should avoid all effort and hold yourself easily and loosely, you must, when your balance is disturbed, make every effort in your power to keep it.
One very often falls simply through expecting to fall, and doing nothing to save oneself, when a determination not to fall would carry one through.
Don't be afraid of running straight down the steepest slope, _provided the ground is open and fairly smooth, the snow easy and safe_,[7] _and the change of gradient at the bottom not sudden_. Remember that the pace does not go on increasing, but attains its maximum in a second or two. It is only while you are gathering way that the sensation is at all alarming; when full speed is reached--provided the ground be smooth--a steep slope feels no more difficult than a gradual one. If, however, there are any undulations--however small--you had better run down a steep slope in the Telemark position. For though on a moderate slope you might hardly notice them, or could allow for them as directed above, on a steep slope the high speed will very much increase their effect, and to run over a small mound may shoot you into the air if your legs happen to be rigid at the moment.
Whenever you are actually running freely and not trying to put on the brake, or stop (explained later), the very best safeguard to the balance is a desire to go faster.