Trevor Laak provides clarification using video examples for a recent video by Audrey Weisiger on toe loop myths. In this video, Trevor addresses these myths and shows they are not true.
Myth 1: On a toe loop a skater should reach back as far as possible and put the toe pick in as far back as possible. This is false. Although a skater should reach back as far as possible, there is a scissoring motion of the feet drawing together before the toe pick goes into the ice. The feet are only separated by 6-10 inches from front to back on a good toe loop (single, double, triple, or quad).
Myth 2: On a toe loop a skater should place the toe pick into the ice directly behind them with the toe pointing straight down. This is false. The picking foot should be slightly open or turned out to facilitate the required pivoting on the toe pick.
As a bonus, Trevor also addresses this myth:
Myth 3: On a toe loop the skater reaches back with a straight leg and the picking leg remains straight throughout the jump take-off. This is also false. The video clearly shows the picking leg bends.
In the slow motion video, you may also observe the pivot or turning on the toe pick before the take-off. Many skaters and coaches do not realize that the toe pick turns on the ice, so this qualifies as yet another myth.
Trevor also discusses the importance of the reach. Please leave a comment.
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4 responses to “Toe Loop Myths Clarified – Video Examples (Trevor Laak)”
Hi Trevor! I have to say I’ve watched so many of the videos you post and have never commented but it is definitely time to. Every morning I sit down at my computer and look forward to what I might learn. I also watched Audrey’s video related to this one and thanks so much for both. I had a lengthy discussion with a skater the other day who refused to believe that I was right…Audrey’s video was perfect timing! I showed it to her and she was surprised! Your website has been so useful in so many ways to me. Although I have attended seminars presented by the likes of Michelle and Audrey, it is wonderful to be able to go back and view videos and get reminders. Keep up the great work…love the videos, love the website and always look forward to more 🙂
Thank you N.R. for the shout out. I love getting this kind of feedback as it helps me know I’m on the right track. I’m pumped you’re finding the site so valuable. I know what you mean about looking forward to the content because I actually go through something similar as I’m putting the videos together and posts to share. I’m constantly learning or relearning. Thanks again!
Hi Trevor I evry day look your video and after use info in my lessens.It very help me and naw I have many ideas.You do very good jobs
As a skater father, I used to argue the myth 3 with my daughter. Now we both understand it. Thanks.