The best method of rod insertion is called the "Peter Principle." It requires the least amount of strength and upper body flexibility and is the quickest. Once learned, it should take between eleven and fifteen seconds. A twenty-run day of skiing will therefore require but five minutes of attention to becoming CADS-ready.

Drop the cord with your left hand (it is retained by the pulley.) With your left hand grab the rod, about a third of its length from the pulley, and let go of the rod with the right hand.

Stand up straight with your shoulders back and level.  Bend your knees forward a little, so you are resting your shins against the front of your boots.  Position your skis in a slight snow plow.  Drop your right hand as low behind the small of your back as possible, with palm facing out, such that your knuckles touch the spine.

With the pulley continuing to retain the cord, your left hand should move to angle the rod toward your waiting right hand, and you should grasp it so that you gather in the rising and descending strings. The best grip is achieved by taking advantage of the diameter reduction in the transition from pulley to rod. See picture two.

Press your the knuckles of the hand holding the pulley against your back, and, a) straighten your knees as you, b) rotate your hips counterclockwise so you view the rod pointing toward the socket.

Use your left hand only to guide, not to lift, the rod.  You will see that the rod has been elevated, and the elastic elongated, without much exertion.

Be sure that the rod and the Power Unit are sufficiently lined up that the rod slides in and seats.

Now do the other side, and then ski. Try this indoors with no distractions before you use the technique on the slopes.