Pre-requisites

Head up out-Face carving is among the first of the dynamic movements for free flying bodyflight. First, your instructor will give you a briefing that will cover all of the safety aspects of this movement, along with the basic information for increasing the wind speed for out-face carving. You should be very comfortable performing the low wind speed carving move out-face/belly flying before increasing the speed as it can create the potential for unwated or un-controlled drive.  

Objectives

The primary objective is to be able to safely and successfully carve around the tunnel head up, while facing the outside of tunnel and having your back to the center. Having this position down pat will allow you to start carving with others, and is one of the fundamental skills of dynamic flying routines.

Preparation

You will need to either begin in an upright sit flying or knee flying position if you're comfortable with it, or you may wish to begin at the low wind speed more belly flying position and then increase the wind in order to become vertical. Ideally you'll position yourself as close to the outer edge of the tunnel in order to maximize the use of the entire diameter of the tunnel.

Technique and Drills

Basic

Helpful tip: Don’t get too comfortable in the “traditional” sit position! Take a few rotations to just try and fly different, awkward, and strange positions in a static sit, especially with your legs! One leg down, both legs down, legs in a split, kick…Get creative with it. This not only develops leg awareness, but it increases your willingness to just go for it when the instructor asks you to. Many flyers progress too slowly because they are too comfortable in their traditional sit.

The techniques you are looking for while in-face carving:

• Hips broken, legs straight. You’ll want to achieve both simultaneously
• Your upper body should be straight but leaning against the wind to provide the power needed 
• Use your shoulders and chest to direct the movement and will essentially help in speeding you up when necessary
• Use your arms to help with control, the more straight up they are, the more speed you will generate, start slow and work your way to getting faster

Post-flight questions / suggestions

•  Were you able to maintain the correct body position?
• Did you maintain a consistent level and shape of the carve?
• Are you comfortable carving in both directions at the appropriate wind speed?