Coach and choreographer Kate Charbonneau continues a presentation on the USFS Preliminary Skating Skills (Moves in the Field) Test. In Part 1 she discussed the Forward and Backward Crossovers and in this video she covers the Consecutive Outside and Inside Spirals. She begins by noting she uses a two foot glide on each transition from one spiral to the next, where only one push is allowed. She has her skaters work toward 5 lobes on each pass down the ice because the final lobe then transitions nicely to the end steps that are not technically part of the test.
Kate demonstrates the entire pattern herself, showing 3 entry steps into a two foot glide and then the first spiral lobe. On the forward outside spirals, Kate steps with relatively square shoulders which she maintains throughout each of the lobes and transitions. On the forward inside spirals she explains that it is typically challenging to control the shoulders, so she often presses the free side arm in front to increase control.
Free leg position is obviously important for spirals, with the leg up to or above hip height, both legs straight, and the free leg turned out. Kate mentions that the two foot glide not only helps skaters generate more power on the push into each spiral, it also helps with control between each lobe which makes the pattern look much better. She describes the process of transitioning from the spiral to the upright two foot glide, with the sensation of pulling up through the top of the head.
Kate explains it may be helpful to ask for more shallow lobes when a skater is first learning the pattern, especially the inside spirals. She also suggests performing the spirals and making a complete circle around one of the hockey circles as a way to develop control and strength of position (getting the free leg high enough). This exercise is also a great way for skaters to learn to correctly place the free foot directly behind the free hip, ensuring the foot does not drift inside or outside the circle. Pushing from the two-foot glide is another way to help skaters get the correct free leg positioning.
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