AboutDianne 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
Question I have a problem with getting past the loop and flip. I really, really really want to nail them. I'm 26 and have been skating for 2 years. I have good boots and blades so can't blame those. I just lose the confidence when it comes to the 'jump' and flunk it every time, either landing on the wrong foot or simply bottling it out totally. This has been going on for ages. It's kind of frustrating and makes me think I may never do it! I can spin very well, three jump, salchow, toe loop..... but that's it. How can I get through this wall. Surely I can't be the only person in the world who 'just can' do it'. I feel like I may slip or something and just don't go through with it. My coach tells me to "just go for it!" But I fail. I hope you can help me. XDX
Answer Hi,
Can you do full turn rotations in your shoes? Work on this landing in a proper position. The loop is the easier to get. Try to take it from a Forward Inside 3 turn keeping your free leg in front. Allow it to turn a bit on the ice before pushing up. You should be able to gain confidence from this "baby loop".
Good luck,
Dianne
