How is it possible for ski jumpers to stay in the air so long and how do they train for that?

Ski jumpers are able to stay airborne for 5 to 7 seconds by transforming their bodies and skis into a human wing that generates aerodynamic lift. Unlike a simple vertical jump that lasts less than a second, ski jumpers use specialized techniques and intense training to manipulate air resistance and glide over long distances.

How They Stay in the Air?

• The V-Style: Jumpers splay their skis into a "V" shape rather than keeping them parallel. This technique increases the surface area catching the air, generating up to 28–30% more lift than the traditional parallel style.
• Angle of Attack: By leaning forward so their bodies are nearly parallel to their skis, jumpers create an ideal "angle of attack" (roughly30 degrees). This forces air particles downward, which pushes the jumper upward according to Newton's Third Law.
• Minimizing Drag: To maintain the high speeds (60+ mph) needed for flight, jumpers use an aerodynamic crouch on the ramp and wear specialized, form-fitting suits. Loose clothing would act like a "parachute," increasing drag and shortening the flight.
• Following the Hill: Jumpers never fly very high; they stay roughly 10 to 15 feet above the ground, following the curve of the landing slope to extend their glide time.

How Do They Train?

Ski jumping requires a unique blend of explosive power and aerial intuition, developed through years of specialized practice.

• Progressive Jumping: Athletes start young (often before age 10) on tiny "springboard" hills and gradually move to larger ramps as they master the timing of the takeoff.
• Wind Tunnel Testing: Elite jumpers use wind tunnels to fine-tune their body and ski positions to the millimeter. This helps them identify the exact posture that maximizes the lift-to-drag ratio without the risk of an actual jump.
• Off-Season Simulation: In the summer, athletes use water rampsto practice their flight and landing in a pool, and use trampolines with bungee cords to develop "spatiotemporal perception"—the ability to sense their position in mid-air.
• Specific Conditioning: Training focuses on explosive leg power for the split-second takeoff and core stability to maintain a rigid, aerodynamic "wing" shape against high wind forces.