Amy Brolsma shows how she discusses forward outside brackets. She starts off with a definition for brackets and she also talks briefly about the “bunny ears.” As she begins discussing the details of the forward outside bracket, she offers specific information regarding shoulder and hip placement and where the weight is on the blade. Keeping the hips “parallel to the barrier” is an effective way to help skaters maintain the proper positioning.
Amy lists some of the most common problems and errors associated with brackets. Body lean is very important for proper brackets and many skaters tend to lean outside the circle. Amy suggests that coaches put their hand on their skater’s backs so the skater can feel the proper lean into the circle at all times. Another common problem is hitting the toe pick. Amy’s solution is to spend some time controlling the rocking on the blade and doing these moves in a quiet ice arena (so you can hear the turn).
Amy also discusses variations on free leg placement. Amy has a preferred placement and she gives reasons for it. This discussion also offers helpful suggestions and problem solving tips.
Add to “My Favorites” (Beta testing)
4 responses to “Ice Skating Turns Advanced: Forward Outside Brackets (Amy Brolsma)”
Thank you for your explanation. I always wondered about where the free leg goes and when.
Thank you again for the detailed explanation 🙂
Thank you Amy! I love as always the detail of your explanations including the specifics of placement on the blade and the leg and arm positions. This is extremely helpful!
I’m just learning these. I am guilty of kicking my free leg to the front (on the turn) and my coach is trying to get me to keep it behind at my heel the entire time. I am going to try your suggestion of moving it back forward after the turn is stabilized and using the forward foot to stay on the circle. (ps I am an adult skater)