Adult Ice Skating: Back Spin (Trevor Laak)

Trevor Laak discusses the backspin, particularly as it relates to adult skaters. The backspin is generally a very challenging spin for low level skaters, and many adult skaters have a particularly hard time with the spin. Trevor explains why and addresses the major issues with exercises and drills. The first drill develops balance and builds confidence as well as alignment.

The purpose of the second drill is to get skaters to shift their weight forward so they are skating backward on the front of the blade. Most young skaters are more willing to spin fast and they are most likely to make the transition from forward inside edge to back outside edge very rapidly as part of a fast accelerating spin. On the other hand, adults tend to want to make gradual changes to slow and controlled spins that ensure their safety but slow their progress.

The last exercise is a novel way for skaters to feel the correct use of the blade, but it allows them to do it in a safe, two-foot manner. By mastering it on two feet and then slowly learning to reduce the weight on the second skate, most adult skaters can learn a backspin safely and relatively quickly.

This video was originally shot as part of a promotion for adult skaters, but these drills of course are appropriate for young skaters as well.