Audrey Weisiger continues her discussion of how to introduce spins to young skaters. The previous parts of this discussion are here: Part 1 and Part 2.
In this video, Audrey discusses various ways young skaters can develop strong balance in order to start learning scratch spins. Beginning at the wall, she starts with simple balance movements, then makes sure the skaters can safely attempt to spin around. Part of the challenge is keeping them interested in the drills.
One way she motivates skaters to work on balance is by creating friendly contests among skaters (with perhaps a healthy bribe for the winner!). She shares a story about how she once had skaters stand on one skate for up to 10 minutes for a prize!
Translating these drills to teaching scratch spins, Audrey has her students explore the toe-pick and ‘sweet spot’ on their blades. Using simple drills like walking around and pivoting on their toe-picks will help young skaters develop a comfort level with where they need to balance on their blades.
Audrey ends with a challenge she gives skaters who have the bad habit of wanting to pivot on the very top of their toe-pick.
Audrey is an Olympic coach and we are very lucky to have her contributions to iCoachSkating.com. Please leave a comment for Audrey or other members below.
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One response to “Figure Skating Spin Tips For Beginners – Part 3 (Audrey Weisiger)”
Fantastic drills – thank you!