Figure skating spin specialist Kim Ryan teaches a spin class. In this first part of the class, Kim explains how she teaches a forward upright scratch spin. As is the case with most spin coaches, Kim likes to start with an upright scratch spin as a way to warm up, both in terms of technical details and centering.
Kim uses the classic back crossover entrance for the class. Notice the emphasis on “stepping back into the circle” and riding the edge for “three quarters of a circle.” She also wants what she calls a “skinny V” with the arms straight. The free leg swings around and once it’s in front the skater should “close the walls to the skinny V” and bring the free leg in, keeping the hips closed. Notice that the technique for bringing the arms in simulates a common jump air position. The feet finish side by side and the free foot is flexed to prevent the toe from going into the ice.
A common error in the class was skaters simply not pushing into the spin. Another error is scratching on the toe pick on the end of the wind-up edge. Another error is the tendency for many skaters to lean backward as the free foot comes in front. Kim says, “You can’t lean away from the spin. You start forward, you go forward, and you’re going to stay forward.” She explains that the skinny V helps skaters stay forward as she wants. Kim also wants the skaters to do 2 or 3 rotations before pulling in. She also makes the point that many skaters who have jump air positions with the elbows out also tend to spin with their elbows out.
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