Expert: Dianne DeLeeuw - 5/1/2009

Question
Im wondering what is the correct way to do an axel jump..? Everyone is telling me different ways!

If using the one of the 4 hockey circles in the rink corners, are you supposed to;

- Glide (on the hockey circle line) backwards on an right outside egde, stepping forward and glide on the left forward outside egde (still on the hockey circle line), then jump THROUGH straight forward, and rotate and land OUTSIDE the hockey circle..?

- Glide (on the hockey circle line) backwards on an right outside egde, stepping forward and glide on the left forward outside egde (still on the hockey circle line), then jump THROUGH and rotate so you land AT the hockey circle line..?

or

- Glide (on the hockey circle line) backwards on an right outside egde, stepping forward and glide on the left forward outside egde (still on the hockey circle line), then jump THROUGH on a deeper LFO edge and rotate so you land INSIDE the hockey circle..?

Someone says you have to jump outside the circle, someone says inside etc, its very confusing, cuz the different angles and edges makes these three approches very different from each other! and "the feel" this jump is very different, when trying all three approches..

Personally I feel it is easier when jumping outside the circle, its easier to get full rotation than when jumping inside the circle.. But I dont know which technique that is the correct one..?


Sara

Answer
Hi,
you are hearing so many ways because there are alot of correct ways!  As a coach i will try many methods if one is not working.  i prefer to have the skater jump off the curve.  But talk to your coach and keep working on it the way they see as best for you!
Good luck,
Dianne