International and World figure skating coach Nick Perna talks about jump trajectory and flow in the context of throwing a frisbee. Nick notes, “A jump is supposed to be moving through space, turning, and in a straight line, in an arc.” But a high percentage of developing skaters do not allow the energy of the jump to continue forward or through the jump. Instead they pull back in some way because they are so focused on rotation, and this destroys the flow of the jump.
Nick demonstrates what he means by throwing a frisbee. He also shows how a frisbee throw would look for a jump with no flow. He explains how that incorrect throw is created. He says, “This is caused because as I release the frisbee I actually pulled back to where I came from.” He relates it to a skating jump, saying “A skater thinks they’re throwing their weight forward but they’re actually pulling it back.” Nick offers specific example reasons this happens in a skating jump.
One of Nick’s favorite methods of dealing with this issue is to use a pair throw to help a skater feel the movement across the ice. Usually feeling this just a few times can help switch a skater’s understanding enough to fix the problem.
Sorry, this content is for members only.Click here to get access.
Already a member? Login below… |
Add to “My Favorites” (Beta testing)
Leave a Reply