STRAIGHTEN UP AND FLY RIGHT

For maximum efficiency glides must be straight as possible, not only in direction of flight but in profile as well.  Careless waste of altitude leads to time lost regaining that height.  On the other hand, climbing higher than necessary, in even the very strongest lift, will never enable you to reach the next objective sooner.  When you’re high enough to get where you’re going within your chosen safety margin, stop climbing and GO.  And when running on course, always fly exactly the appropriate speed for each individual moment.  These are the most fundamental principles of soaring strategy, yet they’re ignored by too many pilots far too often. Maximizing glides should be a habit, and good habits need cultivation.  Even when you’re just gliding down to a landing, why not see that too as another opportunity to practice judgment and technique?  It will surely pay off later.