Section 5: Rules of Play
5.1 In-Run and Takeoff
The athlete starts from a designated gate (starting bar) on the in-run. The gate number determines the in-run length and thus the takeoff speed. Higher gate numbers are higher up the in-run, producing greater speed. The Jury sets the initial gate based on weather conditions and may adjust it between jumpers or between rounds. Athletes must maintain a stable, aerodynamic crouch during the in-run with skis in the prepared groove. At the takeoff table, the athlete extends explosively upward and forward to maximise the trajectory angle.
5.2 Flight Phase
The V-style is the standard modern technique: ski tips are spread apart at 25–35 degrees while the athlete's body leans forward over the skis at an angle of approximately 40–45 degrees from horizontal. This position maximises aerodynamic lift by using the body and skis as an airfoil. Arms are held tight against the body. Any arm-spreading, unstable body movements, or asymmetric ski positioning results in style deductions.
5.3 Landing
The telemark landing is the gold standard: one ski placed ahead of the other in a lunge position, with knees bent to absorb impact, arms extended to the sides for balance. A clean telemark landing with stable outrun earns maximum style points (up to 20). Two-footed (parallel) landings receive lower style scores. If the athlete touches the snow with a hand or sits down, significant deductions apply. A fall results in severe style deductions (typically 7–10 points per judge) and in extreme cases the jump is not scored.
5.4 Wind and Gate Compensation System
Introduced in the 2010–2011 season to ensure fairness when conditions change during a competition round:
- Gate compensation: If the Jury lowers the gate (shorter in-run, lower speed), the athlete receives additional points to compensate for the reduced takeoff velocity. Conversely, a higher gate results in point deductions. The exact values are calculated from hill-specific tables.
- Wind compensation: Headwind provides lift and extends distance — points are deducted. Tailwind reduces lift and shortens distance — points are added. Wind speed is measured at multiple sensors in real time, and the compensation value is calculated automatically using hill-specific wind factors.
5.5 Team Event Format
Four jumpers per team, jumping in a fixed order. Each jumper completes one jump per round across two rounds (8 total jumps per team). The team's total score is the sum of all individual jump scores (distance + style + compensation). Teams are ranked by total score. In the Mixed Team event, the order alternates between women and men within each round.
5.6 Qualification and Trial Rounds
A qualification round may be held the day before competition to determine starting order or to reduce the field. In World Cup events, the top 50 qualifiers advance to the competition. A trial round on competition day allows athletes to test conditions but results do not count toward the competition score.