Skating skills and moves in the field specialist Karen Olson continues her discussion of forward spirals, both as a solo skill and as part of the US Figure Skating Pre-Preliminary Moves in the Field test. In the previous part of this discussion, Karen talked at length about how to teach a spiral to a beginner skater. In this video she offers more insights about the spiral itself and common moves pattern issues.
Karen begins this video by discussing how to start the moves pattern, to maximize the effectiveness of the 7 intro steps. She recommends skaters do their intro steps on a very slight diagonal into the wall at the end of the rink to help create a stronger curve for the crossover which results in more power. Later in the video she, skates the intro steps for us.
Next she explains how she uses the analogy of an airplane taking off and transitioning to cruise to help skaters understand the process of keeping the body up while extending and lifting the free leg before transitioning into the final spiral position. This provides a clear and effective image for most skaters. Some skaters struggle with collapsing between the spirals during the pattern, and this is due simply to “letting go” rather than making a controlled transition. She says, “You can’t drop your leg, you need to bring your leg down (purposefully). It’s never like you’re letting go. You never let go (collapse) in skating.” She then demonstrates the pattern (without the spirals).
Finally, Karen notes that she likes to include aspects of presentation for this pattern. This may include presenting with the arms at the very beginning or taking the arms up over the head on the initial stretch into each spiral. She treats this pattern as an opportunity to teach skills that will be helpful later with the Intermediate and Senior spirals.
Sorry, this content is for members only.Click here to get access.
Already a member? Login below… |
Add to "My Favorites" (Beta testing)
