Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Ice axe" in English language version.
After proper footwork, knowing how to self-arrest adds another layer of security when you're mountaineering. You should consider this skill an insurance policy and not something you want to have to use in real time. It's far better to rely on good, balanced footwork to prevent a fall or slip in the first place. Before you climb snow slopes or travel on glaciers, self-arrest is a skill you should practice, practice, practice until it becomes second nature. There are different ways to get into the self-arrest position depending on your body orientation when you fall (see below). But the end goal is the same: Stop your fall by planting the pick of your ice axe into the snow and using your body to stop your momentum.
