Expert: Dr. Bruce Forciea - 2/12/2009

Question
hi my name is michelle and 16 yrs old and I am in the beta level I am having a lot of trouble with the backward crossovers any tips in which it can help do them

Answer
HI Michelle:

The backward crossovers can be a bit tricky to learn. The key is to develop a good backward outside edge. Many skaters lean outside of the circle while crossing their leg instead of maintaining the lean to the inside of the circle when first learning these.

You can develop your back outside edge by skating backwards in a circle on two feet then lifting the foot to the outside of the circle. For example if you are skating backwards clockwise you will be lifting your right foot. You need to maintain the edge when you lift the foot. Once you can do this then work on lifting the foot and crossing it over--again while maintaining the lean to the center of the circle. Once you cross your foot then you change the weight to the crossing foot.

Doing this in steps should help you learn the crossover. You need to stick with it as it takes time to learn.

Good luck with your crossover...

Bruce