Figure skating spin specialist Kim Ryan gives a young skater a lesson on the beginner backspin. The real value in this video is not only the process that Kim uses, but the coaching along the way. This skater is struggling with generating enough rotational energy from the entry edge, so Kim immediately uses the back pivot entrance.
Also, because skaters have a tendency to want to pull in tight for the backspin immediately, Kim has the skater keep the free leg straight and in front in the spin. The position of the arms and free leg slow the rotation and force the skater to develop proper balance on the blade.
After some level of success is achieved with the straight leg, Kim allows the skater pull in. But she wants the skater to pull in with a straight leg, simply bringing the feet together, rather than lifting the knee. This approach reduces problems associated with the hips during this part of the learning process.
Notice the improvement from the beginning of the lesson.
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