Coach Kate Charbonneau continues her presentation and demonstration of how to perform and teach an A-frame or upright forward spin (see Part 1 here). She begins this video by explaining that the A-frame spin “feels very different than the three basic positions – upright, sit, and camel.” It requires a high level of core strength and flexibility, making it a “difficult variation that takes a lot of practice to master.” Kate notes that it requires real effort to remain properly balanced over the skating foot and she describes the free leg as “floating” but under control. She explains she is “hanging on” with her left (skating) foot as hard as she can.
Next, Kate describes and demonstrates the A-frame from a camel spin. This entry typically has increased energy and the spin speed in the A-frame can be very high, requiring even more control and strength. The transition from the camel to the A-frame is similar to a camel to sit transition, just without bending the skating leg. It’s important to press the free foot forward far enough and quickly enough to allow the catch foot for the A-frame position.
Here Kate also reiterates a concept she discussed in Part 1 that the A-frame can make skaters really dizzy if they aren’t used to spinning with their heads down. The solution is to practice sit spins with the head down to get more comfortable with that head position.
NOTE: The audio in this video is poor during the demonstrations, but it’s just fine during all of the discussion and talking.
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