Recently named U.S. Ski Hall of Fame member Jonny Moseley single-handedly changed freestyle moguls with his “heli-mute grab” at the 1998 Nagano Olympics, and his equally innovative “dinner roll” jump at the 2002 Games opened the door to previously banned inverted aerials. The World Cup combined and overall champion in 1996, and also 1998 World Cup moguls champ, Moseley retired in 2002 with 18 World Cup victories before accepting the job of ski ambassador at Telluride Resort this winter.
What’s your best training technique?
Skiing is the first choice. Trampoline is second-best. You can move to the front of the trampoline and keep your chest and hips aligned, then depress the tramp bed with your feet and legs going side to side like skiing. Also, a slide board in the gym or rollerblades are great. Pilates for trunk strength.
Your worst injury?
I chipped the front of my shoulder socket coming in short on a full, full, full (triple backflip with three twists) and had to get it rebuilt.
Most frightening moment?
First time I ever did a Lay tuck full on snow. I finished the third flip and was still about 50 feet in the air. That was a long drop to head/neck and back. I had lot of time to think about it while I was plummeting through the air. I woke up later that night with cramps in my chest and could not breathe. I thought I was going down right there. I could not even make enough noise to call for help.
How do you push through mental fatigue?
This is not my strong suit. I tend to switch into other activities rather than be monotonous. What’s the sickest thing you’ve ever seen?
Danny Bergoust shattering his femur on impact from an inverted aerial jump in Lake Placid, N.Y. I saw the thing literally break in half.
Who do you admire most?
I am pretty impressed with surfer Kelly Slater.
What music revs you up for a big event?
I keep it tuned to Sirius satellite radio Channel 28 Faction. They always have the best tunes – rock, punk, Dr. Dre/NWA.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
“No man is an island.”
What is your most essential tool when it comes to skiing?
Lately I am loving the face mask! Sun and wind protection.
What do you know now that you didn’t know then?
It’s a woman’s world.
