Once you start skating there is no going back and the urge to keep on learning new moves never stops either. It is one of those activities that keeps you engaged. This is because seeing others at the rink with jaw-dropping fills everyone with the motivation to level up their skating. While everyone starts with the basics, there always comes the point when you want to do more than just gliding, stopping and turning.
That’s where advanced ice skating comes into play. This is the type of skating that even the audience at the rink loves to spectate. While they are pleasing to the eyes, they are actually equally challenging for skaters to execute. Unlike the basics, these moves require strength, precision, and practice. By learning these moves you will add style to your skating and feel more confident on the ice.
Let's dig deeper into this and explore the top advanced ice skating moves that you must learn. Keep reading to uncover the moves in detail.
5 Advanced Ice Skating Moves to Improve Your Skills
While advanced moves challenge you they also increase your interest in skating. Practicing them will take time but once you learn them you will be able to impress everyone at the rink. This article has covered some of the top advanced ice skating moves along with the steps to practice them correctly. Scroll down to unveil them.
Here are 5 advanced ice skating moves to take things up a notch.
One-foot Spin
The one-foot spin move is an excellent one for those skaters who are looking to improve their balance and control. This spin rotates on a single skate blade which may sound simple but it actually requires considerable technique and focus. However, mastering this move will allow you to get ready for more complex spins and turns.
Start by practicing on two feet which will gradually build your confidence in a two-foot spin. Then shift your weight on your chosen foot which is usually everyone’s dominant foot. You can extend your arms for balance. Focus on keeping your balance centered over your skating foot. However, doing all this on your own can be challenging. To make your practice go easy, you can book Dubai ice rink tickets and practice with professional coaches to master the moves.
The Mohawk Turn
The mohawk turn is a good yet challenging transition technique that allows skaters to change direction efficiently. Changing directions is something common and doing it effortlessly is the key to smooth skating. This turn involves switching from forward to backward skating or vice versa. This move can build balance and edge control which is important in advanced skating.
You can do this pose by gliding forward on one foot while keeping the weight centered. Then rotate your hips as you bring the other foot into a “T” position right beside your gliding foot. Then shift the weight to the other foot and pivot your body to keep on skating backward.
Spread Eagle
This move is one of the visually striking ones that require edge control and excellent flexibility to perform. The move requires gliding with your feet turned out in opposite directions which creates a straight line. While it's definitely a challenging one to try it’s worth it for the grace and elegance it adds to your skating routine.
To do this move you need to stand on the ice with your skates creating a “V” position, heels together and toes pointing outward. Then push off gently and extend your legs to glide in this position. While doing all this, keep your core engaged and knees slightly bent to control the glide. Practice maintaining this form as you glide forward, keep your focus on form and balance.
Double Salchow
Who doesn’t love to jump on the ice rink? But this double salchow isn’t the basic jump that you learned while starting your practice. It's a powerful jump that can be thrilling to master. It was named after its inventor Ulrich Salchow. The jump involves taking off from one edge and making two full rotations in the air before landing.
Start this move by gliding backward with your knees slightly bent. Then perform a small pivot and push the inside edge of your non-dominant foot. You must also rotate twice in the air while keeping your legs and arms tightly pulled for control. Lastly, land gently on the outside edge of your opposite foot.
Backward Crossovers
Backward crossovers are considered good fundamentals for both hockey players and figure skaters. This move allows you to skate backward with control and power which makes it essential for advanced skating. Once you nail the backward crossovers, you will be able to maneuver on the ice specifically in tight turns and speed transitions.
Start your practice by gliding backward in a straight line with your knees slightly bent. Then, cross one of your skates behind the other while simultaneously shifting the weight from one foot to the other. Continue the crossing motion which will slowly build speed and control. Do it on the right and left sides to gain confidence on both.
Polish Your Skating Skills in a Supportive Environment
While these moves can be thrilling and exciting to learn, you still may require coaching from experts to prevent injuries. At a supportive ice rink with the availability of certified coaches, you nail every difficult move. Feel free to grab your tickets for the rink and head to practice.
