Camel Spin For Adult Figure Skaters (Trevor Laak)

Trevor Laak discusses the camel spin, particularly as it relates to adult skaters. Trevor covers three important issues for camel spin. The first is the lack of a long and controlled entrance edge. Trevor discusses the two standard entrances and gives a tip for opposite hand lead. The rotational energy from the spin needs to come from the edge and not from twisting in the upper body.

The second issue is the tendency to open the shoulders and pull the body up when trying to balance n the camel position. Trevor recommends doing a lot of spirals to build awareness and comfort with the proper camel position. He also wants his skaters to initially learn to spin with the shoulders flat to the ice.

Finally, the last issue related to camel can also be addressed by practicing spirals. The hips must shift back to allow the body to balance properly. Many adult skaters become so tense they cannot release the hips back. Releasing tension in spirals and camels takes practice and an awareness of the proper positions and balance points. Note that instead of releasing the hips back to balance, another way to think about it is to push the skating foot forward. This concept seems to work better for some skaters.

This video was originally shot as part of a promotion for adult skaters, but the information is of course appropriate for young skaters as well.