Figure Skating/Double Axels

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Question
Hey Dianne.
I have been monitoring this board and noticed that some of the advice that is given regarding the double axel is to skid the take-off. To me this is a big no no.  I know it is done, but I consider it lazy. What is your take on it?

Thanks,
Jeff

Answer
Hi,
I hate the skid too!  But many great jumpers use it.  It is a bit of a cheat on the takeoff.  It is also a risky jump this way.  If a skater does have a skid I still try and teach them to hit a toe pick at the end to push off.
But untill the takeoff is considered for rotation checking on review the skids will continue!
Dianne

Figure Skating

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Dianne DeLeeuw

Expertise

I can answer questions about figure skating, choreography, ISI or USFSA. Also questions about competing (my Olympic experience or your own competition). I`m a National referre for ISI. Recently I also have been appointed a National Technical Specialist for US Figure Skating. But remember I am not your substitute for a coach! They can see what you are doing! To correct or instruct you on manuevers is really not what I want to do.

Experience

Experience: World Champion and Olympic Silver Medalist, coaching all levels of skaters at in California. I coach all levels and ages of skating from tiny tots to adults, first timers to International competitors. I also do choreography, music editing, teach specialty classes and give seminars.

Organizations: USFSA, ISI, PSA, Los Angeles Figure Skating Club

Publications: Recreational Ice Skater, The Edge

Awards: 1976 Olympic Silver Medalist, 1975 World Champion, 1976 European Champion, 6 time National Champion, US and Canadian Double Gold Medalist, 1999 ISI Great Skate Award, 2002 Woman of the Year

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