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Figure Skating/Questions Answered by Expert Dianne DeLeeuw
| Subject | Date Asked |
| age | 12/24/2011 |
| Q: What is the best age to start general group lessons and at what age should one start with a private ... A: We start them at 3 for some Tot classes. But this age only learns by playing. If a child is in ... | |
| AXEL PROBLEMS! | 12/8/2011 |
| Q: I'm victoria and I 'am from Argentina! Thanks for answering the questions and all the tips, they ... A: Well first if good for you to have all singles in 6 months, That is amazing. But axl is another ... | |
| switching from USFSA to ISI | 11/12/2011 |
| Q: If a skater has passed USFSA freestyle 6, and wants to switch to ISI, will they have to start over ... A: There are 2 ways for you to compete in ISI events: There are "Open FS" events that have a minimal ... | |
| When to up blade choice? | 11/2/2011 |
| Q: At what point should skaters move up to a more advanced blade than coronation ace/professional. ... A: This is always a tricky question. Pro blades have been a good starter for doubles forever! But ... | |
| butt pads | 10/31/2011 |
| Q: Which butt pads is the best protection for triple jumps? Is there anything you could recommend? A: You have to experiment on what protects where you fall most. Tailbone is critical, the gel are less ... | |
| Buying the right skates | 10/28/2011 |
| Q: Can you please recommend a brand/style of ice skates for my beginner 6 year old. I had bought him ... A: You need to listen to your coach! Spend more on a better blade. At 6 you are light and growing fast ... | |
| I cant land my axel | 8/25/2011 |
| Q: I am working on my axel but im having trouble landing it properly. I am competing in a competition ... A: Well, this is tough! Is the Axel required? If it is you have a bit of a problem since it takes a ... | |
| fear of falling | 8/4/2011 |
| Q: My 12 year old daughter started skating privately with a coach 3 years ago after taking one year of ... A: Sorry this took so long...I was at 2 competitions. Fear of falling is lack of basic skills. Try ... | |
| Single axel (air position) | 7/23/2011 |
| Q: I've been working on the axel for about a year now and it's so close! I can rotate it fully, but the ... A: Many times it seems perfect off ice but you can't do the same on ice. Work with your coach on doing ... | |
| Reaching a certain level | 7/8/2011 |
| Q: I have been skating since August 2010, so I've been skating a total of about 10 1/2 months. I was 16 ... A: That is no problem, except that you may end up competing with alot of younger kids for awhile. But ... | |
| Reaching a certain level | 7/4/2011 |
| Q: I have been skating since August 2010, so I've been skating a total of about 10 1/2 months. I was 16 ... A: Well, Sounds like you are doing great! But spend enough time on skating skills, not just "tricks". ... | |
| Painful hip | 5/18/2011 |
| Q: I'm an adult skater (35 year old), started skating 3 years ago. I do all single jumps and started ... A: You may be trying to push up a little too hard. On ice you have speed etc. I would keep off ice ... | |
| Triples?? | 5/14/2011 |
| Q: I'm a 17 year old figure skater. I've been skating for 2.5 year for around 2 hrs a wk. Ive learnt ... A: It is very tough to go from singles to doubles first of all. There is alot of technique involved. ... | |
| Dbl salchow and back camel | 5/3/2011 |
| Q: I working on dlb salchow. I`ve figured out how to get or "start" the rotation (when Im on a back ... A: I hope you have a good coach to work with you! You sound like you have good knowledge of your body. ... | |
| age,coaches, brands,technique | 4/22/2011 |
| Q: I have got a load questions if you don't mind, -What are the age limits of the USFSA levels ... A: The US Figure Skating rule book will answer all your questions on eligibility. You can find it on ... | |
| Double Jumps Problem | 4/8/2011 |
| Q: I got my axel and double salchow consist. Then I went and passed all my moves and came back to ... A: I thought I sent this answer already but... You will need to work closely with your on ice coach to ... | |
| Axels | 4/4/2011 |
| Q: I've been having a hard time landing my axel. The thing is that i'm landing on my left foot, when ... A: Sounds like you are in abit of trouble here! You need to work with your coach on weight transfer. ... | |
| cross legs on the double jumps | 3/31/2011 |
| Q: My daughter has trouble to cross her legs on the double jumps. Her double toe, lutz and flip are ... A: This is tough. She must work on a tight backspin position. Work on the harness to over rotate in a ... | |
| Hesitation and confidence | 3/25/2011 |
| Q: All I ever do while skating is doubt myself. When I get ready to do a jump or even a spin I hear ... A: If it helps...this is a very common issue. You really need to build confidence. Make a check list ... | |
| rotation on jumps after double toe | 3/20/2011 |
| Q: hey, i have been skating since i was 6 and i am 15 now, at first i made loads of progress and got ... A: These are issues for you and your coach. That last little bit of rotation is tough. Work off-ice, ... | |
| Same program for different competition? | 3/18/2011 |
| Q: Do skaters skate the same program for different competition? If yes, why do they do that? A: Yes they normally use a program for a season or two. They will have a Short Program with required ... | |
| age=fear! | 3/14/2011 |
| Q: I am 28 years old. I joined figure skating 5 months ago so I could be involved with my 2 daughters ... A: Bravo for you! Figure Skating is great exercise and challenging. there are competition ... | |
| axels and unwritten rules | 2/24/2011 |
| Q: I've been doing axels for a year and have landed them before.Rotation is not a issue, its just my ... A: Good for you to get the rotation! That's the first hurdle. Now you need a strong check to hold the ... | |
| Too old/Tall/Late..? | 1/23/2011 |
| Q: I was wondering what you thought would be the absolute latest anyone could start figure skating if ... A: Figure skating is a great sport for all ages but you need to be realistic in your expectations. ... | |
| axel | 12/28/2010 |
| Q: I am an adult skater and learnt the axel when I was 15 years of age. After that I always had ... A: This is a very common issue with Adults. You do not have to cross but it will rotate faster. If you ... | |
| MK Phantom Vs. MK Gold Star | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: I'm a skater that's moving on to doubles and triples and my coach suggested I buy a more advanced ... A: Most of my skaters use the Ultima FS. We all like them and have had success with them. Gold Seal, ... | |
| Gold Seal Blades too heavy for 55lb daughter? | 12/18/2010 |
| Q: I am ordering new Riedell boots, 43J for my daughter, who wears a size 2, 55 pounds and 49" tall. ... A: I'm not sure Gold Seal comes that small. My students almost all use Ultima Freestyle blades, ... | |
| Is there a video of testing requirements ISU | 12/15/2010 |
| Q: We live in a country with 2 ice rinks and no testing system, so although my children skate 4-5 days ... A: Sorry I thought I sent you an answer... This is an interesting question. I am not sure of the ... | |
| How to conquer fear of attempting triple jumps? | 12/3/2010 |
| Q: I'm 16yr old (girl) figure skater at the Novice level (am planning taking Junior (Canadaian) singles ... A: You sound like alot of my teenage skaters! You are not alone! So first of all, are you wearing butt ... | |
| Pushy? | 10/25/2010 |
| Q: I keep reading things about children being too old / when they need to land jumps and as i sit with ... A: You have entered a tough area in skating...parents that think they know it all! Skaters are all ... | |
| Flying Sit Spin in IJS | 10/23/2010 |
| Q: My daughter is entering Juvenile competitive level (IJS). The FS program requires one of the 3 spins ... A: There is no easy answer here. If you are just looking at this spin it could be a level 2 or 3 ... | |
| Will my dreams ever come true? | 10/20/2010 |
| Q: Well, I have a few questions. First let me tell you a little about me:I'm 13 and I just started my ... A: Sorry this took long I was on a trip. Sounds like you are learning proper technique. ISI and USFS ... | |
| Group lesson vs private lesson? | 10/1/2010 |
| Q: My daughter is 5 years old now and is taking group lesson and private lesson at the same time. Her ... A: This is common in kids. But you need to get both instructors on the same page. Make sure they are in ... | |
| Knee injury | 9/30/2010 |
| Q: yesterday i was helping teach beginner skaters how to skate. I was doing my drag (field move) when i ... A: Sorry, I have been away! Anyway I hope you have gone to a doctor if you still are hurting. If you ... | |
| Death drop and doubles | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: I`ve been doing back camel, camel-change-camel and flying camels for a while now, and want to start ... A: It sounds like you are doing well with death drop. I like to see the "hang time" in the air. Land ... | |
| coaching change | 8/28/2010 |
| Q: She has been with the same coach for 9 years. My daughter would like to change coaches and it is 6 ... A: This is always hard. But first off have a frank talk with your current coach! There may be a ... | |
| Becoming a Figure Skating Choreographer | 8/24/2010 |
| Q: Good day!It's so nice to have you answering my questions. Since I am a Taiwanese(I live in ... A: I think you have good intentions and a lofty goal. You will first need to become a higher level ... | |
| Wanting to learn more... | 8/19/2010 |
| Q: My name is Daniela and I am 11 years old and have been skating for 7 months and I am in basic 5 and ... A: You should have enough skill by now! Check with your instructor. But you can master the basics of ... | |
| am i too old? | 8/5/2010 |
| Q: i am fourteen and i believe i started skating at ten and then eleven seriously. i have a very good ... A: Sorry this took so long, I had several competitions. Axel is a tough jump for most! If you get ... | |
| Axel | 7/29/2010 |
| Q: I am fourteen and have been skating for about five years. I have what I understand is a common axel ... A: Yes it is very common. Work hard on a back scratch. A harness lesson will help you get over the ... | |
| Would this maybe work (pairs skating)? Am I too tall? How do I bring it up to my coach? | 7/25/2010 |
| Q: I have decided I would like to try pairs skating and it would be great if I could find a partner and ... A: Sounds fun, sorry I was not a pair skater. But I have observed most teams have a weak link for ... | |
| MIF | 7/21/2010 |
| Q: I am 16 goin on 17 and have been skating since I was nine. I have two great coaches including Gene ... A: Wow, you are doing good on jumps but the MIF are the foundation of skating. Guess what you get alot ... | |
| Skates | 7/14/2010 |
| Q: I am 12 and just starting to dive into figure skating. It is something i love and I have been doing ... A: Good for you to get lessons! At 12 you really need to work hard to catch up if you are going to be a ... | |
| Spin Combination Levels | 7/7/2010 |
| Q: I am competing at the pre-preliminary level (USFSA) and I have some ideas for spin combinations to ... A: Wow those are impressive spins if they are held long enough and executed fully! The levels are ... | |
| Starting skating again...your opinion? | 7/2/2010 |
| Q: I used to skate recreationally, but I stopped a year and a half ago when I was thirteen. At that ... A: You need to talk to your coach and establish a new relationship. You have matured and now know what ... | |
| Am i really to old to skate | 6/21/2010 |
| Q: i started skating when i was around 13 or so but i kept moving because of my mother's job then i ... A: Sorry I did not answer this sooner... I am happy to hear you are getting back into skating. There ... | |
| Roller skater transition to Ice | 6/17/2010 |
| Q: I am thinking of changing over from Roller skating to Ice. I skate freestyle. Been competing in it ... A: Many roller skaters transition. But stick with conventional blades. Dance blades have a shorter heel ... | |
| Synchronized Skating | 6/16/2010 |
| Q: My question is about my daughter who is 7 years old and in Basic 5. She just tried out for the ... A: Team skating can be alot of fun or a huge headache. Alot depends on the coach and the rink culture. ... | |
| Lack of Motivation? | 6/15/2010 |
| Q: I'm a competitive figure skater, an Open Pre Juv with a double lutz. I got all my doubles in 3.5 ... A: You need to find your love of skating and why you do it. Let go of all your pressures and just try ... | |
| Help w/axel | 6/13/2010 |
| Q: What's wrong with my axel??? Every time I try to take off, it LITERALLY feels like my feet are glued ... A: Well where to start... If you have any desire to compete you must test. You can start competing at ... | |
| figure skating | 5/29/2010 |
| Q: trouble rotating 720 i can do 1 and a half rotations but not 2 for the double to loop A: This can be a frustrating problem. Work with your coach to find out if it is a technique or ... | |
| ISI Tests and Routines | 5/18/2010 |
| Q: For ISI competitions, I know the skater is required to use the items listed at their test level for ... A: For ISI there are no restrictions on the amount of things you do only what you do. Each required ... | |
| figure skating coach | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: I used to be a top figure skater and want to know how to find employment as a coach or judge. I have ... A: Well you need to research where you are. Start with the PSA and US Figure Skating for information. ... | |
| Double salcow | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: My daughter is 14 years old and she started figure skating since 4years ago. She landed axel and ... A: Coming back from an injury is always tough! Don't rush it! Work on skating skills and other jumps ... | |
| Hesitations | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: I'm 16 and recently learned how to skate on ice. I love it and been a figure skating fan forever so ... A: I am sorry to say it seems like where you live is a problem for a serious skater. You will only be ... | |
| track | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: About a month ago I started running middle school track and literally it is ruining my skating. I ... A: Track and skating don't mix that well. The only thing you can do is make sure you stretch really ... | |
| my sit spin | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: when i spin and then go down for the sit spin, i end up falling. any tips on how i can do the sit ... A: It is hard to know what you are doing wrong. Your coach or teacher can help here. I would suggest ... | |
| How long does it take to master a backspin? | 4/17/2010 |
| Q: I am a 34 year old woman on and off ice skating in the last 12 years till last year (Jan 2009). ... A: wow sounds like you are doing great! You have mastered the hardest part already. You amy want to ... | |
| Spins | 4/13/2010 |
| Q: I have been trying to learn the correct entry into a one foot spin and am really struggling. I can ... A: You are jumping ahead of yourself! You need more skills. Work hard on your edges, three turn, ... | |
| axel | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: So i can land all of my double jumps up to the flip. still working on the double lutz. But those ... A: This is a crazy problem! Axel takes off forward so it is different! I have never had anyone with ... | |
| Loop Jump | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: I am struggling to get my loop jump. I am a left footed skater and any tips you could give me I ... A: Work on a back spin with a check out first. There are several approaches to try. Please work with ... | |
| Axel | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: and I still can't get my axel! It's really frustrating, especially when a see a few seven-year-old ... A: Sorry I was updating my computer and it took longer! Axel is a huge hurdle for all skaters. Doing ... | |
| Double Sal | 3/18/2010 |
| Q: I've been working on my double sal for about 4 months or more now. & i cant get it. I am straight in ... A: Work with your coach and a video to see in slow motion where it goes wrong. There must be a moment ... | |
| how do you control nerves? | 3/10/2010 |
| Q: I am an adult skater. I practice great, but when it comes time to test or compete, I am a nervous ... A: I teach alot of adults and this is harder than with the kids! Being prepared helps the most. ... | |
| age...but dream doesn't seem so far now | 3/3/2010 |
| Q: I am 26 years old. I started skating a year and a half ago. Yeah I know that's late. But it's a ... A: Wow! You've gotten to Jr. MIF in such a short time, I've never heard of anyone doing that. So ... | |
| My dream, more than just a passion | 2/28/2010 |
| Q: My name is Miranda, I'm 15 years old and I have been skating since I was 6. Skating is my dream, ... A: Well to realize your dreams you must be able to skate! Perhaps there is a rink in commuting ... | |
| skating dreams | 2/27/2010 |
| Q: My daughter is 11 has been skating for close to seven years. Skating has always been her passion, ... A: This is hard. Skating is a passion for some, a hobby or something to do for others, and sometimes a ... | |
| choregrapher | 2/19/2010 |
| Q: I have danced for almost 10 years and I would like to know if it's possible to work next to a coach ... A: I'm not sure you have the formal training for this, so you would need to try and build a resume. ... | |
| ice skating | 2/18/2010 |
| Q: my name is Joy and i am 14 and i resently decided to start ice scating. im getting a personal coach ... A: This will be a great adventure for you! Start with the best you can afford but make sure you work ... | |
| figure skating age | 2/18/2010 |
| Q: Dianne. I am a 14 year old girl and i want to start figure skating. I was wondering if it was ... A: Many people start later! Find a rink nearby so you can practice alot. The first step is basic ... | |
| Scoring | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: How can one olympic figure skating pair that falls during a routine score higher then a pair that ... A: A fall is no bar to winning. A fall is a one point deduction that is easily made up by a better ... | |
| bottom tooth on figure skates | 2/4/2010 |
| Q: I'm always dragging this protruding bottom tooth. Should I file it off? A: That would be the worst thing you could do! That is the toe pick for jumps, spins, stops, footwork, ... | |
| Age, Olympics, and goals? | 2/1/2010 |
| Q: I've been skating since I was 11, after skating for about two years, I had to take a break for 5 ... A: No, that is not completely what I meant. You need to follow your dream, but be realistic. There is ... | |
| Age, Olympics, and goals? | 1/29/2010 |
| Q: I've been skating since I was 11, after skating for about two years, I had to take a break for 5 ... A: Yes age is a bit against you. But if you are working as hard as you are who knows. First of all ... | |
| DRESS 4 MUSIC | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: What kind of music do you think would go well with this dress? ... A: This is a very pretty dress that could serve you well for many programs. In black it is a bit more ... | |
| single Axel | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: I am an adult figure skater. I have been working on my axel for almost 2 years, and I can land it ... A: Axel is tough to get that last little bit! First of all...make sure you have pads! I have the ... | |
| 14 year old beginner | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: My daughter wants to take up ice skating and is 14. She has previously done alot of ballet (6 ... A: This is kind of a crazy idea. If you have to go a long way you cannot practice much. If you don't ... | |
| lace bite | 12/25/2009 |
| Q: i am a hockey player and i've been dealing with severe lace bite for over a month. i've taken time ... A: Try different padding: Use 2 strips of foam pad on either side of the painful spot. Then put a full ... | |
| figure skating scoring method | 12/23/2009 |
| Q: Considering your career began when compulsory figures were part of the score, has it been a GOOD ... A: Yes all is well with me! Figure Skating has changed alot. I work as a coach and a National ... | |
| Flip Jump | 12/23/2009 |
| Q: I'm starting to learn my flip jump and I need some help. I pick my right toepick into the ice and ... A: Work on this with your coach as it is hard to help you without seeing you. Some things I have my ... | |
| figure skating dream | 12/22/2009 |
| Q: I begged my mom to join a figure skating class but we don't have enough money to afford classes. ... A: Figure skating is a lifelong commitment for the ones you see on TV. But starting later you can ... | |
| axel | 12/18/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has been working hard on the axel jump. Coach advised that she's getting really close. ... A: If you are wearing pads etc. that should be enough. Perhaps there is a technique problem. The ... | |
| toe picks and ice dancing | 12/16/2009 |
| Q: I plan to learn the SkateCanada junior silver level dances and would like to know if the toe picks ... A: I really have no answer for you. We did the same thing years ago for figure blades, then soon they ... | |
| figure skates | 12/15/2009 |
| Q: I found a used pair of skates on ebay - Riedell 320, with Wilson Wizard blades (VZ01A10), blades ... A: I have never heard of the Wizard. My guess is an older blade sold with the boot. The blade sold ... | |
| toe picks and ice dancing | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: I plan to learn the SkateCanada junior silver level dances and would like to know if the toe picks ... A: Wow...are you using hockey skates! All Ice Dance blades have toe picks, just a shorter heel. I ... | |
| all doubles | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: I had one more question, ive been landing all the doubles, except for double axel. like i said ... A: You need to work with your coach on learning to rotate faster and tighter. All jumps need to land ... | |
| IL figure skating coaches | 12/10/2009 |
| Q: How would I find a figure skating coach, in the state of IL, that has some reputable background ... A: First of all check into what is at your rink. The coach should be a member of the PSA, US Figure ... | |
| double flips | 12/9/2009 |
| Q: I was wondering if you have any advice on double flips i feel like i get enough rotation but it ... A: Double flip was one of my favorite jumps! Work on keeping it straight and tapping really straight. ... | |
| too old? | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: I'm from california. I started ice skating when I was four years old. I was always on the top for my ... A: If you want to skate again you need to skate for yourself first. At 16 you are on the edge of Jr. ... | |
| double salchow | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: i've been working on my double for about 6 months. Im very close to landing it when i do the ... A: Double sal takes a lot of work. Keeping your arms in is a must. Work on landing all your singles ... | |
| Games | 12/3/2009 |
| Q: Around Christmas our club does a fun night for the beginner skaters. What are some fun games that ... A: Think about relays adapted to ice. We always do balloon things. 2 skaters work together to make it ... | |
| sore feet | 11/10/2009 |
| Q: The first 15-30 minutes of skating I must leave the ice to rest my feet and/or untie them and allow ... A: I have heard of this before. You may not have been fit right unfortunately. Something is being ... | |
| When should I stop using rental skates? | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: I started to learn figure skating from the basics (correct forward stroking) about two months ago. I ... A: As soon as you can! Unless your rink has great rentals, most don't. Check with your coach about ... | |
| 3 year old in first lessons | 11/8/2009 |
| Q: I'm a British expat in Canada with a 3 year old that wants to skate. Where I lived, there just ... A: Tot classes are the best way to start! But you need good skates. I would get regular figure ... | |
| Off Ice Training | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: I was thinking about taking ballet classes and yoga/pilates/tai chi classes along with strength ... A: My advice is to skate on them...they will dull down. There are many ways to dull them but I don't ... | |
| Off Ice Training | 11/1/2009 |
| Q: I was thinking about taking ballet classes and yoga/pilates/tai chi classes along with strength ... A: All of those things are great for skaters! But time is the issue, nothing substitutes on ice time! ... | |
| jump harness | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: Do you recommend using the jump harness for learning jumps like axels and doubles ? what's the ... A: I use the harness alot, but still have kids I call "queen of the harness" because it is perfect but ... | |
| Maximum age | 10/10/2009 |
| Q: I did figure skating when i was 14 and stop for school. Is it too old to compete again at age 25? ... A: I am not sure in your country but in the US there are many opportunities to compete as an adult. I ... | |
| Toe Loop | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: Okay. So I am just learning a toe loop and I tap my right toe pick into the ice. I don't know if I ... A: Toe loop is tough to learn right. The jump comes from your skating leg assisted by the tap. The ... | |
| Edges | 10/5/2009 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, I'm learning to do a crossover. I start the left outside edge and when I lift the other ... A: This is a common problem when first learning this. Try to adjust your lean. Remember to always ... | |
| Is It Too Late To Start? | 9/29/2009 |
| Q: My name is Alana and i live 'down under' in New Zealand. They do not offer much skating ... A: You are so lucky to have a rink near! Go check out what is there. There should be a Skating ... | |
| how much in how long?! | 9/22/2009 |
| Q: I just started skating three months ago or so, and am in freestyle 3/4/5-ish, which means I'm really ... A: Work hard because you want to see how good you can be. You need a coach to guide you. Start with ... | |
| Is my daughter too old to be in the Olympics? Will ballet Help | 9/14/2009 |
| Q: My daughter started skating at the age of 12 1/2. She has now been skating for 8 months and is in ... A: Sounds like she has done well in a short time to get to FS 5. You need to speak with your coach ... | |
| Why such a prejudice on ice against wrap? | 9/13/2009 |
| Q: Dianne, Just wondering....(not arguing) ;-) When did ice skating instructors/judges etc. start to ... A: The wrap is considered bad technique right now. But times change, years ago no one crossed their ... | |
| Am I too old to become an Olympic Figure Skater? | 9/11/2009 |
| Q: I was wondering if I am too old to want to be an olympic figure skater. I am 18, just taking my ... A: Bravo to you for starting to figure skate! It will be a great adventure to become the best you can. ... | |
| Technical Specialist | 9/1/2009 |
| Q: I'm interested in being a certified technical specialist, but am not necessarily interested in ... A: This is something you cannot do unless you were a skater. All the criteria is set forth on the US ... | |
| Lost Interest | 8/24/2009 |
| Q: My daughter who is and has been skating for 5 years. Told me the other day that she is quitting ... A: This is common! Is there school pressures or issues? Please talk to her coach. Maybe you can come ... | |
| jumps and moves | 8/6/2009 |
| Q: I am a 23 year old skating coach who just recently decided to try to finish her tests. I am on ... A: Sounds like you will know when to try doubles. You need axel to feel good first. As for the MIF ... | |
| Sit Spin | 8/1/2009 |
| Q: I'm 13 years old and I have been figure skating for about 4 months now. I can't seem to master my ... A: Sounds like you are doing great for only 4 months! You will need to work on scratch spin and basic ... | |
| facial expressions | 6/28/2009 |
| Q: I figure skate competitively but only as a hobby (if that makes sense) and I have been looking for ... A: This is different for everyone. For me I hate the overly fake expression. I love seeing joy in the ... | |
| Need New Blades | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: I am an adult skater working on an inconsistent axel and double salchow. I have been having problems ... A: My students love the Ultima FS. Spins all improve and the toe jumps are great. I also used ... | |
| GoldSeal Blades | 6/11/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has new goldseal blades. how long is typical for a 9 year old to get used to new ... A: Gold Seal are great blades but very heavy. This may affect her feel. As for the rocker, that is ... | |
| to become a choreographer... | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: my name is cassy. i am a 16 year old novice skater and have tested some dance. im noy that good to ... A: This is a tough field. You need to become versatile in all forms of dance, take alot of classes. ... | |
| Blade advice | 5/27/2009 |
| Q: Dianne, Hi! I am a freestylist. I have skated on ice and am currently on inlines. I acutally like ... A: Look into ultima Freestyle. Most of my high level kids use them. sharpening is easy and the pick ... | |
| Junior freestyle test requirements | 5/22/2009 |
| Q: I am testing my junior freestyle in a few weeks, and my coaches are at a conference for the next ... A: Sorry I did not have my test book with me. JR Free: 3 different dbls, one must be 2F Jump combo 2 ... | |
| Blades | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: I have a 9 year old daughter who weighs 50 Lbs and is currently a pre-preliminary skater (has her ... A: Always listen to your coach! Gold Seal and Pattern 99 have been around forever for a reason. I ... | |
| Change in our sport | 5/6/2009 |
| Q: I just wanted to get your opinion on the state of our sport today. I am a coach as well and really ... A: I really have to defer this question as I am involved in all aspects. As a National Technical ... | |
| Faster spins | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: I began skating about 4 months ago, I am 19 years old. At first I was afraid I was too old to begin ... A: Wow you are doing great! It sounds like you are progressing well. Ask your coach to teach you how ... | |
| Figure Skating | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: I have started Learn To Skate this year, and I have aspirations to become a figure skater. Trouble ... A: There are many competitions for all ages and levels! Get with your coach to form a plan. But don't ... | |
| Skate Spinner Off-ice | 5/2/2009 |
| Q: Im 14 and have been in learn to skate since i was about 6. I recently moved up to club ice in ... A: My students use spinners. One that is easy is actually a "Teist Board" by Everlast. It can be ... | |
| Axel | 5/1/2009 |
| Q: Im wondering what is the correct way to do an axel jump..? Everyone is telling me different ways! ... A: you are hearing so many ways because there are alot of correct ways! As a coach i will try many ... | |
| Lutz | 4/19/2009 |
| Q: My daughter is having trouble entering into the lutz, completing the full revolution and landing ... A: Lutz is tough to do correctly. The take off edge is most important that it is on the outside edge. ... | |
| How long can boots be expected to last? | 4/11/2009 |
| Q: I started skating as an adult about 2 years ago and cought initially some very entry levl boots, ... A: Boots always crease unless they have a notch there to help you bend. You will notice loss of ... | |
| What does a skater do if her home state has no room for Progress? | 4/7/2009 |
| Q: My daughter is 9 years old and she has an excellent coach. However we live in Florida and the State ... A: Sorry I have never heard something so absurd! If you are improving great, but I can't believe you ... | |
| Compulsary/ Spin programs | 4/7/2009 |
| Q: My daughter is ten and has been skating since she was 4 so we have definitely learned a lot through ... A: Read the announcement for the event. These are made up events and each is judged diffeently. The ... | |
| Figure Skates | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has shown appreciable interest in learning to skate. I am a skater, and have used hockey ... A: That would be terrible! A skater must learn to use the toe picks properly. If she is running into ... | |
| jumps | 4/1/2009 |
| Q: my daughter is 11 and in freestyle 1(ISI) and has been there for almost a year. she has the ... A: Some skaters feel better at first doing things slower. Have her work on things she is confident on ... | |
| jumps | 4/1/2009 |
| Q: my daughter is 11 and in freestyle 1(ISI) and has been there for almost a year. she has the ... A: Is she afraid? You need to work with her coach to overcome this. There is a huge difference doing ... | |
| Flying Sit Spin | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: How to do a flying sit spin..? Should you swing your leg around like in the normal sit, then jump ... A: There are many ways to teach this. I do this: Jump off a clean edge, The free leg comes around as ... | |
| Camel spins.. | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: I have practiced camel change camel and flying camel for a month now..On forward camel I can get ... A: Sounds like you are doing good! The back camel is the base for all these. Work on the entrance ... | |
| double sow | 2/28/2009 |
| Q: I have my axel and it's extremely consistent as in 5/5 times I will usual land all the way around ... A: First of all it is a "Salchow". Skaters need to know proper skating terms and history! The jump is ... | |
| spirals | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: i have been learning to skate a while now, but am having problems with my spirals, mainly keeping my ... A: Spirals are more than just flexibility. It is strength and skating skill. You may need to be more ... | |
| 7 year old skater | 2/8/2009 |
| Q: My daughter is 7 years old and loves skating. She started just before she turned 4 and has been in ... A: Sounds like you have a skater! I think you should add a private lesson even if it is just 15 ... | |
| Question regarding sharpening/not sharpening, new blades. | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: First of all, WOW! I saw your awards, etc...on your profile. That's really impressive. :-) Can ... A: First thank you for the compliments. New skates don't always come with the best sharpening. ... | |
| Flip Jump | 1/8/2009 |
| Q: My daughter is almost 8 years old just past Pre-Preliminary tests and now is working on Preliminary ... A: Congratulations on passing! Here in California most kids don't take the PP FS till they have an axel ... | |
| Jumps, loop and flip, | 1/7/2009 |
| Q: I have a problem with getting past the loop and flip. I really, really really want to nail them. I'm ... A: Can you do full turn rotations in your shoes? Work on this landing in a proper position. The loop ... | |
| beginner boots | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: i am a beginner. I know how to skate but everything I know is self taught. I finally signed up for a ... A: I like Jackson or Reidell. Whichever fits your foot best. Go to a good pro shop affiliated with a ... | |
| teaching axels | 1/5/2009 |
| Q: I'm having a lot of difficulty teaching one of my students an axel. She has been working on them for ... A: Wow if we all had an answer for these students! I would suggest harness for confidence. The ... | |
| physics in lutz jump | 1/2/2009 |
| Q: I am working on a physics project on the topic of figure skating. I was wondering if you could give ... A: Check out this online... University of Montana, Physics & Biomechanics course entitled, 'The ... | |
| inside/outside backward/forward edges | 12/29/2008 |
| Q: there is something I really don't understand. What are inside/outside and backward/forward edges?? ... A: The blade has 2 sides you skate on. The Outside is just that... on the outside of your foot. ... | |
| Finding the sweet spot | 12/23/2008 |
| Q: I've been skating for quite a few years, but I'm still stuck doing scratch spins and I can barely do ... A: I am not sure how to help you...this is tough! Your coach can help you best. Sometimes it could be ... | |
| New Blades.. | 12/16/2008 |
| Q: I was wondring if you could give me some blade-information, and recommend one of these blades for me ... A: Sounds like you are going to be comfortable on Pattern 99. You will adjust to the rocker and it ... | |
| Ballet | 11/29/2008 |
| Q: I am 14 and have been doing ballet for 9 years and 4 years of pointe. I want to start figure ... A: You will be able to learn fast because of your dance background. Jumps and spins will be hard due ... | |
| competition placement | 11/27/2008 |
| Q: I am 9 and I don't understand why I was able to get 1st place in compulsory moves but not in the ... A: You cannot cry over a placement. You need to work with your coach to improve your routine. Maybe ... | |
| Axle | 11/23/2008 |
| Q: I have been working on my axle for almost a year now, and I still haven't landed it. I can get full ... A: Axel is tough! Work on the landing exercises. Maybe the harness could give you the feeling. Also ... | |
| Double Axels | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: Hey Dianne. I have been monitoring this board and noticed that some of the advice that is given ... A: I hate the skid too! But many great jumpers use it. It is a bit of a cheat on the takeoff. It is ... | |
| Twizzle tips? | 11/8/2008 |
| Q: A: These are ice dance turns used ib footwork. The important thing is they are NOT just 3 turns. They ... | |
| Bielman | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: Dianne: How would you teach a Bielman position to a skater? Also, after they master the position, ... A: You will need to work on the floor first. I would suggest getting some sort of strap to help pull ... | |
| Skating shows | 10/16/2008 |
| Q: My name is Sofie Roberg and I'm a figure skater from Sweden. I'm trying to apply for Disney's World ... A: All the shows have a web site! There are links to most production companies in the "Skate Web". ... | |
| Olympic qualities | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: What qualities/characteristics do you see in young skaters that tell you they have Olympic ... A: Many things... Love of skating, they want to stay on forever. Willingness to work hard even if they ... | |
| Juvenile and Intermediate Skating Levels | 8/18/2008 |
| Q: My daughter is 13 and is now competing at the Juvenile level and will move to Intermediate. We are ... A: You always put the maximum of 6 jumping elements. What they are is another story. 3 may be ... | |
| Centering The Scratchspin (all over agian!) and other such | 8/15/2008 |
| Q: *Sigh* For a while I had a perfect scratch, where i spun in a perfect circle and made that beautiful ... A: Your coach sees you and offers the best advice. Take a longer, slower entry. Try the scratch from ... | |
| double axel | 8/11/2008 |
| Q: i'm 13 and in pre juv. i'm working on my double axel and they are getting really good. but they are ... A: You have great coaches to work with. Follow their instructions. If you are only Pre-Juv you are ... | |
| Ice Skating Choreographers | 7/27/2008 |
| Q: Our club is looking for a choreographer to come in to work with the skaters and Coaches. Do you ... A: There are no real lists. You can find a contact # for everyone that is a member of PSA in the ... | |
| axel inconsistent.. | 7/12/2008 |
| Q: I am really confused about my axel because i first landed it after seven months of skating with ... A: This is normal when first learning axel. It could be your blade mount that is different. The take ... | |
| axel landing | 7/1/2008 |
| Q: my daughter is having trouble landing her axel correctly. Her coach complains she is landing on the ... A: Axels are tough to learn to land well. Your coach probably is correcting but it is just not ... | |
| help!?!??! | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: i just started skating about 2 months ago and im practicing on my doubles .. the problem is that i ... A: First of all if you are working on doubles after only 2 months you are a phenom! Do you really have ... | |
| Edges | 6/25/2008 |
| Q: I am an adult beginner, and I am having trouble maintaining my outside and inside edges on demand. ... A: Learning to skate on edges is the first step to becoming a skater. You will need to trust your lean ... | |
| sit spin help | 6/13/2008 |
| Q: i just learned my program and theres a sit spin in it... i can do a sit spin but i have a few ... A: Sit spin is tough! Get stronger by working the position in shoes. Work with your coach on the ... | |
| testing | 6/9/2008 |
| Q: I am 10 years old ,I have been skating for 1 1/2 years now. I was about to take my pre -juv test and ... A: If this is where you want to skate, you need to find a coach there. Perhaps they can grow with you. ... | |
| skate help | 6/8/2008 |
| Q: I have a 10 year old daughter that consistently lands axels and double sals and is working on all ... A: If Riedell has done you well you may want to stick with them. Other choices...Harlick light or SP ... | |
| Skating and summer vacation.. | 6/2/2008 |
| Q: Im a recreational figure skater (24 year old girl), who started learning spins/jumps 1 1/2 year ... A: this is tough...there is no substitute for skating. Maybe plan a skating vacation somewhere. I ... | |
| stroking | 6/1/2008 |
| Q: My 10 years old daughter has a tendency to lean forward with her upper body when she does her ... A: Generally go with your coach, they know you and your skater! I am not a fan of Pattern 99, but ... | |
| fitness level | 5/30/2008 |
| Q: I don't cheat anymore, but now I find it hard to complete the rotation. Also, I land on both feet, ... A: This is a common problem learning axel. Sounds like you need to cross your feet and have more spin ... | |
| Scratch Spin | 5/28/2008 |
| Q: Dianne, I started learning to spin (2-foot) about 3-4 months ago. Now I can do a decent 1-foot spin ... A: You are doing great. Learning spins can be difficult for some people. But it is more important to ... | |
| stroking | 5/21/2008 |
| Q: My 10 years old daughter has a tendency to lean forward with her upper body when she does her ... A: I use Beannie Babies in my Stroking class. We use the flat ones, cats, dogs, etc. You put them on ... | |
| axel | 5/21/2008 |
| Q: hey dianne i need some help with my axel in under rotating by a quarter of a turn i am tucking my ... A: I don't know much about Risports so I can't help you there. Always confer with your coach regarding ... | |
| new judging system | 5/3/2008 |
| Q: Could you please explain the new(well not really anymore!) judging system to me? I know that there ... A: Go to the US Figure Skating website. www.usfigureskating.org click on "judging systems". Here you ... | |
| Mental block with a single axel | 5/2/2008 |
| Q: My son 10 year old has been landing a very good single axel for close to 2 years. ( He started ... A: Sounds like a skate issue for sure. Every skater needs a different blade mount to suit them. My ... | |
| 3rd test loops | 5/1/2008 |
| Q: Hey Dianne. I am an adult skater who no longer feels the need to jump--well who feels the need not ... A: Loops are fun! Start doing them on 2 feet till the axis. For the rfo: Start with left arm leading ... | |
| Competing | 4/30/2008 |
| Q: I have been skating for about 4 months and am about to take my senior test, I was wondering how old ... A: Wow! This must be a record! It takes many years to get to Sr level in the US! As for requirements ... | |
| axel troubles! | 4/22/2008 |
| Q: I have been skating for a year and have very strong jumps, especially loop, but I have a MAJOR ... A: This is hard to correct if it becomes habit! Do alot of waltz jumps and exercises. If you are ... | |
| camel spin | 4/21/2008 |
| Q: I'm really confused about my camel spin, for ages it was fine, but all of a sudden its just gone ... A: You need to pull up on your skating knee after the hook in 3 turn. Make sure your arms and chest ... | |
| speed in basic skating | 4/21/2008 |
| Q: my son is 6 years old and has been learning skating for 15 months. the thing that puzzles me is ... A: First of all everyone progresses at different speed. A 6 yr old boy does not always have the muscle ... | |
| buying new skates and blades | 4/6/2008 |
| Q: My daughter is 9 years of age and we are about to get her new skates. She is currently in Freestyle ... A: Most important: Check with your coach! They are the Doctor who writes the prescription to take to ... | |
| Dance Tests | 3/21/2008 |
| Q: my name is Leah and I really want to start testing in Solo Dance. I was wondering if you need to ... A: I do not do dance but have seen alot of tests. Some rinks the test chair has music. Or the coach. ... | |
| Axel and backspin | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I was hoping you could help me with my axel and backspin.. : I have practiced axel off ice for a ... A: Get some butt and hip pads! Loose your fear of crashing, everyone falls learning axel and doubles! ... | |
| Juvenile moves | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: My son is 12 years old and has been skating for 5 years. He is just starting his double axel and ... A: This is tough! Sounds like you are working in the right way. But one move should not fail the test. ... | |
| troubles with a few moves | 3/5/2008 |
| Q: Diane, I am having trouble with three moves, and I was wondering if you had any tips for learning ... A: Sit Spin: Work on being toward the front of the blade. Pull your rear end more back and press ... | |
| what kind of exercises | 3/3/2008 |
| Q: I'm 15 years old and a beginner figure skater and besides ballet what other kind of off-ice ... A: Ice Skating as much as possible is the answer for starters! Other than that flexibility, ... | |
| Do i have a chance | 3/3/2008 |
| Q: I'm 15 years old and i just started ice skating lessons i know i'm too old for the olympics but what ... A: Congratulations on starting to skate! Work hard and practice and you can enjoy the sport for life. ... | |
| my lutz and flip | 2/21/2008 |
| Q: I used to be able to land my lutz jump and flip jump but over the last few months i've only landed ... A: This is a hard habit to break! Make sure you are jumping off your skating leg not the tap. Work on ... | |
| Routine | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: I am 28 who just recently took up skating as a hobby. I've been skating for about 4 months now. By ... A: You really need to have a coach now. I'm not sure where you are writing from but every country has ... | |
| Dream | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: I am a fourteen-year-old fantatic about skating. Every night I go to sleep I dream about triple ... A: I am always very supportive of people dreaming of becoming skaters. But the reality is if you ... | |
| Becoming an ISI judge | 2/12/2008 |
| Q: I have just begun taking a student to ISI Basic competitions (a "real" coach). She is in Gamma ... A: Go to the ISI website and get all the information you need. There are seminars held every Fall and ... | |
| Competing | 2/11/2008 |
| Q: I am about to test for the pre-bronze level for adults. I want to compete at this level in July, ... A: Pre-Bronze really varies from event to event! My best advice is do what you can do and do it well. ... | |
| ISI vs. USFSA? Junior Level | 2/5/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering what the differences are between the 2 associations. Do you think one is better ... A: The 2 organizations are both terrific in what they offer. ISI is the recreational side. It covers ... | |
| Too old? | 2/2/2008 |
| Q: Well, I'm 13 and turning 14 at the end of may. I've skated a few times in my life, but have never ... A: Yes you are a bit old to expect the Olympics. But there is a whole world of Figure Skating if you ... | |
| At a loss . . . | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: I am hoping you can help me. My daughter is 6 years old and has been skating regularly for a little ... A: Let things take their course but help her where you can! You may want to start her in some ISI or ... | |
| Can I still compete...? | 1/26/2008 |
| Q: I am 14 years old and I have been skating for about 2 months. In the course of 2 months I have gone ... A: Wow! That is amazing! You will need to get a routine and try competing. It may be a bit different ... | |
| levels | 1/23/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering, I have been skating for two years, have my NISA two, am fourteen years old, can ... A: I do not know what NISA levels are but you can always do well if you love skating and work at it. ... | |
| At a loss . . . | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I am hoping you can help me. My daughter is 6 years old and has been skating regularly for a little ... A: Give her a chance to learn more skills before passing judgement. Once she is confident it may pull ... | |
| age vs. level | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: What is the average level of a 10 year old USFSA skater?? She can do a number of spirals, ... A: This seems like it can really vary. It depends on many factors. In my area it seems like the bulk ... | |
| just curious | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I have 2 quetsions. 1.Why don't women skaters wear "sox" over their boots to match their costumes?? ... A: Skaters follow trnds and fashion. Sox over skates to match the outfit went away a long time ago. ... | |
| Private of Group Lessons at age 7 | 1/7/2008 |
| Q: My daughter wants to learn figure skating, should I start her out in group lessons or private ... A: Group lessons are great ways to get her started. I take skaters for private lessons along with the ... | |
| skating music | 1/6/2008 |
| Q: my name is Haley and I am a figure skater in freestyle 4 in USFSA. I am new to competitions, and my ... A: You will need music wothout words. A good source is movie or play soundtracks or compilations. Ask ... | |
| Auditions for children | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: Who do I get in touch with if I want my 5 year old daughter to audition for an ice skating ... A: I'm not sure of this. I don't know if they need kids of this age. Alot of times the kids used are ... | |
| spins (kinds, centering, finding the sweet spot) | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: ^.^ hiyas! I'm in Freestyle 4 (soon to be five) and i have some questions regarding spins. My ... A: Sounds like you really need to spend time on basic uprights. If spins used to be better have you ... | |
| Axel | 1/1/2008 |
| Q: I've been skating for two and a half years, and am in Freestyle Five. I've just learned my axel, ... A: Be patient. Axel can take a long time to get right. Have your coach look at off-ice jumps first, ... | |
| competitions | 12/27/2007 |
| Q: i was wondering, when you enter a competition, like at another rink besides your own, what sort of ... A: There must be some sort of rulebook or manual that lays it all out. Generally here in the US each ... | |
| Figure Skating | 12/10/2007 |
| Q: I am 23 years old and I am from Harrison Twp. Michigan. I have recently decided that I wanted to ... A: There are great opportunities now for Adults to compete. Check into both the ISI and US Figure ... | |
| exercises off ice | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: My granddaughter is 8 , very tall and has just started taking privates. she has a problem with the ... A: Spirals take strength and flexibility. There is a book "Conditioning for Figure Skating" that is ... | |
| Spin | 12/5/2007 |
| Q: I am a 35 yr old skater who has been skating 11 months. I am tracking pretty well, having competed ... A: You are doing great! Scratch spin may take awhile to feel the position. Try it with a slght to ... | |
| Y spin | 11/20/2007 |
| Q: I've been trying a variation of the Y spin for a few weeks, one were you pull the blade up to your ... A: Not sure I have ever heard it called this. It is an upright difficult variation. And it is hard! ... | |
| USFS vs ISI Adult Competitors | 11/6/2007 |
| Q: What truly is the difference between USFS and ISI adult figure skaters? I think all adults whether ... A: Personally I don't see a difference. But in the real world USFS is considered the Governing body of ... | |
| Ballet vs skating | 11/4/2007 |
| Q: Hai dianne! im kinda confused about classic ballet and figure skating some said that ballet is ... A: Ballet is fabulous for skating but there are differences! You do one to enhance the other. I have ... | |
| Choosing Blades | 11/1/2007 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, I am in the market of buying new blades for my daughter. She is a petite and light (65lbs) ... A: Phantoms are great. I used to compete on them. But lately I have most of my students on Ultima ... | |
| 4 year old | 10/31/2007 |
| Q: My Daughter just turned 4 years old this summer. She's in Freestyle 1 and just learned the waltz ... A: I've had this same issue. My husband (an Olympic coach) even has brought it up with the owner of ... | |
| doubles......? | 10/25/2007 |
| Q: again, sorry for the trouble but I was wondering.... I'm really close to my axel (just keep on two ... A: You really need a coach or a class to help you learn proper technique! You could work on strength ... | |
| Biellman...on ice | 10/25/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering, I'm definatly not a very flexible person (I'm getting there...) and after a month ... A: Sounds like you are getting it! Start with just finding the blade in a glide and a spin. Then as ... | |
| One-foot spins & my future in ice-skating | 10/19/2007 |
| Q: You sounded like just the person I needed to talk to! First I wanted to know about one-foot spins. ... A: The one-foot spin can be tricky to balance. You need to enter it toward the front of the blade. ... | |
| crossovers | 10/18/2007 |
| Q: i have a fear of falling down while doing the forward crossovers. what should i do? A: This is common. It is fear of hitting your toepicks! Perhaps try kneepads(gel are the thinnest)to ... | |
| Any suggestion? | 10/14/2007 |
| Q: Hai again Diane! thank you so much for your latest answer! it means a lot for me! Actually im ... A: I am not familiar with all the college rinks, but there are many in the Midwest and East. I am in ... | |
| I want to be a professional choreographer | 10/13/2007 |
| Q: im 17 and im from Indonesia I've been skating since i was 7, im fs8 now and im preparing for fs9 ... A: This is a big request! It sounds like you are on the right path. But this is a hard field to get ... | |
| Bielman | 10/11/2007 |
| Q: Dianne: How would you teach a Bielman position to a skater? Also, after they master the position, ... A: We start with off ice stretching and strength building. Use a strap, towel or something else to ... | |
| Figure Skating | 10/10/2007 |
| Q: I'm 14 yrs old and I've always wanted to be a figure skater, do you think it's a little too late for ... A: 14 is a bit old to become top level competitive. But there is much more to skating. If you pass ... | |
| flying camel spin | 10/9/2007 |
| Q: !!! zoey A: Several things to help: Work on back camel alone! Pull up in a strong arch to keep speed. Make sure ... | |
| gold interpitive | 9/29/2007 |
| Q: I've had the SAME interpitive for about 4 years now. I've pretty much made it up to gold with my ... A: This is such a personal thing! It must be something you love and can really get into. Check out ... | |
| Figure Skating Blades vs Dance Blades | 9/28/2007 |
| Q: I currently have MK double star blades. I am a beginning ice dancer and my coach told it might be a ... A: I am sorry I don't know very much about Dance Blades. Only that they have a shorter heel. You ... | |
| Figure Skating | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: What music do you recommend for a 10 year old competing in ISI Beta A: Whatever you like is ok! The music needs to be 1 minute with a slight leeway (10 seconds, but don't ... | |
| Skates | 9/24/2007 |
| Q: When I bought them I was told that I should buy a pair a size smaller than my shoe size. I bought ... A: There can be many issues going on. Different issues could be going on. Different blades, settings, ... | |
| Levels of Difficulty, (Features), on Spins | 9/8/2007 |
| Q: Dianne, Hi! Just have a few technical questions on spin features. It’s weird stuff, I can’t find ... A: All these things are changing as we go along so here is my best answers today... 1. Stars are not ... | |
| Skates | 8/12/2007 |
| Q: I need to get some new skates and I don't know what kind of skate and brand I shoud get for my ... A: Check first with your coach then a good pro shop. Also most manufacturers have charts on their ... | |
| Skates | 8/10/2007 |
| Q: My ten year old daughter has been skating for a little over a year and is already experimenting with ... A: You need to get her a coach right away. Even though it may look great to you but snot learning your ... | |
| Spin and jump difficulty.. | 8/9/2007 |
| Q: Im just wondering what`s the increasing difficulty on spins (scratch, sit, camel, layback, biellman, ... A: You can look up the "Scale of Values" on the ISU or US Figure Skating sites. As for difficulty to ... | |
| just started | 7/26/2007 |
| Q: Hey, i'm already 14 and only just started. i'm self-taught and i just wanted to know...if you would ... A: You might be able to do waltz jump right away but axel takes alot more skill. Be sure you are good ... | |
| my niece | 7/23/2007 |
| Q: I need advise about my 16 1/2 year old niece. She has been skating for many years and my sister ... A: Sounds like she is doing quite well, but not necessarily on the "Olympic Track". This is a great ... | |
| figure skating | 7/22/2007 |
| Q: hi i just turned 13 and I've been taking ice skating lessons and i really love it but am i too old ... A: You will have to work hard to catch up for the US Figure Skating Nationals. But there are alot of ... | |
| my niece | 7/20/2007 |
| Q: I need advise about my 16 1/2 year old niece. She has been skating for many years and my sister ... A: I never tell anyone they are too old to skate! Everyone skates for different reasons. Figure ... | |
| money on lessons | 7/20/2007 |
| Q: my daughter has been skating for a year and a couple of monthes and I am spending several hundred ... A: It is hard to judge since everyone advances at a different pace. Age is a factor here also. I ... | |
| 7 months figure skating | 7/12/2007 |
| Q: i have been skating for 7 months now and i was just wondering because i really wanted to know what ... A: This is not a fair question. There are so many issues here: How old are you? What is your fitness ... | |
| A couple of questions | 7/1/2007 |
| Q: I just found this site and just wanted to ask about a word that was unfamiliar with me. I wanted to ... A: An Axel is a jump that takes off forwards, rotates 1 & 1/2 times. It is similar to a Waltz Jump in ... | |
| double jumps | 6/27/2007 |
| Q: What order should a skater learn double jumps? If a skater can't land an axel, should they start ... A: Wow you are jumping the gun going to the lutz! It is usually the last double before axel. it ... | |
| i don't understand | 6/22/2007 |
| Q: i don't understand how to do a double salchow ? what do i have to know as far as inertia and that ... A: Double salchow is not hard if you have all your basic jumps and a good axel. Hopefully you have a ... | |
| Double Sowchow | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: I've been landing my axel for a while now and my coach thaught I was good enough to go on to my ... A: It is and it isn't! It is an easy way to think of SALCHOW when you are new to the jump and going ... | |
| Rules of thumb for blade setting | 6/16/2007 |
| Q: I took up figure skating at 55 (not a typo) to add to my pilates, weightlifting, and aerobics ... A: I'm not an expert here but see alot of skaters. You can definitely have instincts on the blade ... | |
| New skates | 6/15/2007 |
| Q: And thank you for taking the time to help. My daughter is in need of new skates and I'm not real ... A: First congratulations on such fast progress. Always listen to your coach first! The boot at her ... | |
| Difficulties in loop jump | 6/14/2007 |
| Q: Good morning, i'm wondering why if i try single loop from a 3-LFI (i'm lefty), it's ok but if i try ... A: Nothing wrong with the 3 turn to learn it! To do it from mohawk: Use a line. Push a RFI edge on ... | |
| i need help | 6/12/2007 |
| Q: and i have ice-skating lessons but i would like to take another step forward to becomming an ... A: Glad to hear you are having lessons. To be a pro you will need to train very hard! Find a coach ... | |
| One foot spin | 6/8/2007 |
| Q: How can I do one foot spin without touching my toe pick? My toe pick always scratches ice to slow me ... A: You will touch the pick on most spins, but it should not be excessive. That is how the name ... | |
| novice moves in the field | 5/29/2007 |
| Q: What is the typical amount of training time for a skater to learn moves in the field before testing ... A: Originally these were designed for about a year. But it depends on many factors...how much you ... | |
| competing | 5/27/2007 |
| Q: up to what level skating can i compete professionally?? I am in Basic 8 right now but up to what ... A: To compete at Regionals you must be at minimum the Juvenile level (unless your region has ... | |
| competing | 5/27/2007 |
| Q: up to what level skating can i compete professionally?? I am in Basic 8 right now but up to what ... A: You can compete at every level you qualify for with your age or testing. There is an opportunity ... | |
| how do figure skating choreographies work? | 5/21/2007 |
| Q: how do choreographers know what to put in the performance and when, where, and what?? thank you ... A: Choreography is important. For competion you must include specific elements for judging and make it ... | |
| Progress | 5/9/2007 |
| Q: I noticed today that my 6 y.o. who is coached by another ex-Olympian is not as good as another 6 ... A: First of all you can never compare kids, everyone progresses at their own rate. After that it ... | |
| Camel, Loop, Axel.. + New boots and Blades.. | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: Im a 24 year old girl from Norway, who loves iceskating,, I`ve been skating with friends or by ... A: glad you are enjoying skating! Your lessons will help...be patient and work hard, you can learn all ... | |
| Jumping | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: I am 16 years old and a Novice level skater in Canada. I just started having major problems with my ... A: Double Sal can be problem jump! Have you also worked on it with a 3 turn. Sometimes a change can ... | |
| Would like to coach | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: I started skating when I was 8 and continued with private lessons,precision team skating and ... A: US Figure Skating can look them up if you know your club or #. It may take awhile if it was long ... | |
| Help! | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: i am 13 yrs old (14 in may) and i just started lessons in Feb, i am currently just passed my test ... A: Glad you enjoying skating! Yes you probably are too old for the Olympics but there are many other ... | |
| USFS and ISI rules | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: ! Please help!! I am so confused... 1. What value, if any, would a double inside axel have under the ... A: tough questions! 1. Inside axle as of today is a no value move or an uncaptured in ISI. I would ... | |
| I want to be a choreographer | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: i am 15 years old and have only skated about 3 times in my life, but i am not that bad. but anways, ... A: I am usually very encouraging, but with no skating background is tough to tackle skating programs. ... | |
| Posture while figure skating | 4/8/2007 |
| Q: My daughter is 8 and has been skating for a year and 1/2. She just passed basic level 7. Her ... A: I have this alot in kids. It is an overall posture thing. You need to work on core strength and ... | |
| Spins | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: I am having trouble trying to go from a backward inside edge to a forward outside edge in my camel ... A: this is hard! That is why the extra points. Start working on changing the edge on upright spin. ... | |
| Spins, Jumps and Moves in the Field | 2/25/2007 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, And with regards to completing full rotation of the double Salchow off ice, how do I ... A: For the back spin I have my students take a LFI edge (if spinning on R)as preparation. Then the ... | |
| Spins, Jumps and Moves in the Field | 2/22/2007 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, Firstly, I am having trouble mastering the Camel Spin. For the entry, I know I must push ... A: Wow, that is alot of questions...do you have a coach? Sounds like you advancing quickly. It takes ... | |
| Double Toe | 2/22/2007 |
| Q: First, thanks for helping me with my axel issues. Next, I have been trying double toes for a while ... A: Make sure it is not a toe-axel, that is turning before you go up. Practice the tap at the wall. As ... | |
| finding a coach | 2/13/2007 |
| Q: but, my teacher, shes not a coach. shes 20 something im sure she has a life of her own. i don't ... A: I always try and support people writing in, perhaps I don't have the knowledge of your situation to ... | |
| Confidence | 2/5/2007 |
| Q: I'm about 12 years old and thinking about starting figure skating. I really practice as hard as I ... A: I assume you are not in the US because any age can be in the club. It is important to gain ... | |
| Bielman | 2/5/2007 |
| Q: how to do a bielman on the ice?Dianne: How would you teach a Bielman position to a skater? Also, ... A: my students get better with practice. But you must be careful not to overdo. Make sure you work on ... | |
| Spirals | 1/28/2007 |
| Q: I am having trouble getting my free leg on my spiral to be at least hip height. Any tips?? A: Spirals depend on strength and flexibility. Off ice exercises will help. Do both stretching and ... | |
| Double toe & Double loop | 1/24/2007 |
| Q: but t here's still 1 thing i'd like to clear up. Is it better to land a double jump 1/2 rotation ... A: my preference is getting on one foot. The weight change must be correct to acheive the jump ... | |
| Double toe & Double loop | 1/23/2007 |
| Q: I am 13 yrs. old and have been skating for 2 years. I am now working on my double toe & double loop. ... A: these are common problems! What I try and work with on my students is holding arms in longer to ... | |
| Judging system | 1/15/2007 |
| Q: I am a user of ISUCalcFS program for Turkish Federation.This is not a formal writing in the name of ... A: I do not know how this program works. I am only a Technical Specialist and have seen Data input. ... | |
| two foot spins | 1/11/2007 |
| Q: i'm a self-taught skater and when i do two foot spins i travel on the ice instead of staying ... A: it is hard to learn to center spins! It is a matter of wight distribution. Sometimes it helps my ... | |
| Competition Nerves | 1/7/2007 |
| Q: I have a competition coming up and I will be skating Preliminary. I always get SO nervous that I ... A: I would suggest over training your routine! It is not that long so you should be able to do it ... | |
| Double Jumps | 1/7/2007 |
| Q: I have a few questions about double jumps. 1)I am working on the double salchow, and I am all the ... A: sounds like you don't have the technique to do doubles. The salchow will initially be more like an ... | |
| Spinning | 1/3/2007 |
| Q: I am right handed, and I'm about to begin group learn-to-skate lessons. I can go forwards and ... A: the direction you spin and eventualy jump is important. It is not dependant on any one thing. ... | |
| Camel Spin | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: but I'm still having difficulties getting my form the way my coach wants it without going of ... A: I don't know what to suggest about the hand on spinning leg on the entrance? You may be confused ... | |
| coaching | 11/12/2006 |
| Q: I'm 17 and a ISI freestyle 5 skater. Im also interested in being a coach in the future. so i was ... A: But many rinks will hire skaters with less to start out. A Senior test is like a college degree, ... | |
| foot problem/ spin | 11/6/2006 |
| Q: Both of my ankles are kind of crooked, it's hard to explain but right at the ankle bone/ arch of the ... A: this sounds like you need arch support insoles at the very least. You can try drugstore kind or go ... | |
| Am I too old...? | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering if I am too old to start figure skating? I am 15 and I just started skatinga few ... A: 15 is a bit old to compete ultra high level. But there are so many opportunities for any age or ... | |
| Sit spin | 10/17/2006 |
| Q: I'm 14 years old and I've been skating for about half a year now and I've mastered all of my single ... A: Sit spin takes alot of strength! Do squats and the "wall sit". That is a 90% sit against the wall ... | |
| figure skating judging | 10/17/2006 |
| Q: do figure skating judges start from a perfect score and deduct points or do they start from zero and ... A: the score starts at zero and points are given for each element. Then there are points for ... | |
| workout | 10/14/2006 |
| Q: I am in my seconf year of adult learn to figure skate classes. I am doing OK,but still have ... A: basic conditioning and cardio work is great. Check out a Yoga or Pilates class. There is a great ... | |
| Figure skating and edges | 10/11/2006 |
| Q: I have been taking figure skating lessons for the past several years. I am an adult skater. I have ... A: yes you want to work hard on edges! Perhaps you need to have your skates checked to see if the ... | |
| Toe Loop, Loop | 9/20/2006 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, Thank you for the help with the salchow and sit spin. I have several queries regarding the ... A: Single toe loop can be tricky. I agree with the stretch back. The right leg must then come through ... | |
| jumps | 9/16/2006 |
| Q: I have trouble with the loop and flip jump the most, but I can do them on land, just not on the ice. ... A: Loop does not take much space to learn. Try it from an inside 3, keeping free leg in front after ... | |
| Bielman | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: Dianne: How would you teach a Bielman position to a skater? Also, after they master the position, ... A: it is not easy! Definately work off ice first. Then it is learning to find your blade on a glide ... | |
| fear of the loop jump | 9/2/2006 |
| Q: i can't seem to get up when i jump. I know it won't hurt me if I fall but I still can't get the ... A: loop can be tough. You need to practice this off ice! Then work on your back scratch alot. I ... | |
| Skating games for kids | 8/27/2006 |
| Q: My 4 year old son and 5 year old daughter refuse to take group skating lessons to learn ice skating. ... A: the ISI used to have a game book. Try www.skateisi.com. I play pretend games with tots. Red ... | |
| trouble with entrance to spin | 8/23/2006 |
| Q: (I'm only on the 2 footed spin). I've been having problems with the entrance where you come in from ... A: this is tough when you first start! You need to use your left arm across your body on the RBI ... | |
| Axel | 8/21/2006 |
| Q: I am about a half turn cheated on my axel jump. Not sure how good this is or how close i am to ... A: this can be really hard! Make sure you have good technique and strength and it will come. Work the ... | |
| Back Spin | 8/18/2006 |
| Q: I am an adult skater that has been skating for 5 years or so. I am working on camel spins, lutz, ... A: you sound like you are on the right track with your practice. I like the absolute stand still kind ... | |
| Too Much Ballet Training for Figure Skating? | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: I've been taking ballet and lately pointe since moved to Conneticut when i was three. I'm 17 now ... A: ballet and skating are great together but there are differences! The air positions are important and ... | |
| Skate | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: With my skate, my rocker is compleatly gone, my boot is scrunching up on my feet, i am developing a ... A: I don't know your age or level...but you need help! Good equipment is #1. Please deal with a good ... | |
| coaching | 8/15/2006 |
| Q: I'm just beginning coaching and need to know what to ask for pay wise. I have 10 years of ... A: There is no set answer here. You need to be around what everyone else charges at your rink. ... | |
| Hiring coaches | 8/11/2006 |
| Q: What questions should you ask when hiring a coach? A: I'm not sure wether you mean for yourself or for the rink. If for yourself: First watch and observe ... | |
| jumps | 8/6/2006 |
| Q: I get really scared when i go into my jumps and not even try. (i still have trouble with an axel) Do ... A: Wow you will need these jumps in Open Juvenile! In my area the girls do at least double flip! But ... | |
| Sit spin and Salchow | 8/5/2006 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, Thank you very much for your help with the edges. It helped me a lot. I am now learning ... A: Sit Spin is tricky. The good news is you are close to the ice when you fall. Lean forward with a ... | |
| competition skating | 8/5/2006 |
| Q: i am interested in knowing how long the "long road" to the olympics is, considering you have ... A: yes skating has a very long road! You start out in group or private lessons. Advance through a ... | |
| outside back 3 and backward crossovers | 8/3/2006 |
| Q: I've only been figure skating for about a week now with no coach!I'm just learning from my friends! ... A: sounds like you are doing great. But you need to at least take a basic class or you will get bad ... | |
| How to Do an Arabian? | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: How would you teach a skater to do an Arabian? (Dianne, I remember your Arabian's were great --it's ... A: An Arabian is an exciting move! I always suggest that it be learned off-ice first. It is basically ... | |
| Which blade? | 7/28/2006 |
| Q: I'm a 26 year old skater, and I started skating 1 year and a half ago. I'm starting double jumps and ... A: first congratulations on your acheivements! But a better blade will help spins. I used to always ... | |
| rotation in the air | 7/27/2006 |
| Q: the rotation is almost there i can go abous 1 and a quarter in the air but my problem is i am to ... A: Wow! 5 months and learning axel...that is amazing. But now...give yourself a chance to catch up. ... | |
| Balde Choice | 7/27/2006 |
| Q: My daughter is 15 years old and has been skating seriously 3-4x/week for about 3 years. She has all ... A: I doubt wether the double toe is just a blade thing. It takes good technique, but more toe pick ... | |
| Help Me! | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: Ok I have been having some problems on my axel. How Do You Stop Two Footing On An Axel? My coach is ... A: 2 footing can be either lack of rotation or not having your weight on the landing foot. Do alot of ... | |
| spins | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: I really need help on my scratch spin. Im doing it from backward clockwise crossovers. The entrance ... A: how is your One Ft Spin? If it is not great this needs work. The entrance needs to be on a deep ... | |
| spins and too tall? | 7/20/2006 |
| Q: I've asked you a question before and I really appreciated your answer so I'm back again! I'm 16 ... A: Tall is not always a problem. It sometimes is a bit tougher for tall girls on triple jumps. As for ... | |
| New games for Tot classes | 7/18/2006 |
| Q: I have been teaching figure skating for years now, and it seems everywhere I teach, I specialize in ... A: Wow...aren't all of us that do classes looking for fun ways to teach basics. I feel Tot class needs ... | |
| time and spin troubles | 6/24/2006 |
| Q: I'm 16 years old and I've been skating for about 5 months now and I am currently about to start ... A: Wow this is impossible to say how long. Just push yourself and practice as much as you can. And ... | |
| Delta Level | 6/23/2006 |
| Q: ive been skating for a few years and instead of going really fast ive been masttering each element ... A: edges are important! Your blade has 2 sides or edges, you must be on acurve skating on only one. ... | |
| Falls, and judging | 6/21/2006 |
| Q: Sorry for any English grammar mistakes I might make. Anyway, I am very curious about how the falls ... A: all falls are treated the same. A 1 point deduction plus GOE, usually -3 but I just had a student ... | |
| Edges | 6/21/2006 |
| Q: DeLeeuw, Are there any pointers and tips I ought to take note of when performing edges, in ... A: back inside are tough. Most importantantpractice skating deep on all your edges. Do drills on an ... | |
| 18 Years Old (skating and skates) | 6/10/2006 |
| Q: The pro-shop owner I have says the skates I have should last me through all the freeskating levels ... A: you should not be in pain. Try padding them with gel pads, bunga sleeves, or so. Maybe new insoles ... | |
| 18 Years Old (skating and skates) | 6/7/2006 |
| Q: I am 18 years old and have been skating for five months. So far I have been able to learn skating at ... A: sounds like you are doing great on your skills. I'm not sure where you skate but if there is an ISI ... | |
| Power Class | 6/6/2006 |
| Q: I'm teaching a power skating class for the summer, and I was wonderning if you had any suggestions ... A: it is tough with such a wide skill range. Just keep them moving. Devise drills with MIF turns etc. ... | |
| Correcting body posture on jumps | 5/24/2006 |
| Q: Is there an exercise, tools, tricks and/or verbal corrections I could use to help a student of mine? ... A: this happens to ALOT of skaters. I always feel old habits happen under pressure and when they are ... | |
| Pairs | 5/21/2006 |
| Q: I have a 12 year old daughter who loves skating. She has been skating for 4 months and is begining ... A: pairs requires alot of single skating skill. I don't teach pairs or dance but am around them. The ... | |
| how to | 5/20/2006 |
| Q: howdo you do a axle A: You glide on left fo edge for takeoff and land on rbo edge. You need to be astrong skater and know ... | |
| Scared to do the axel | 5/16/2006 |
| Q: I'm a skater who stopped skating about two years ago and would like to start again sometime soon. ... A: good for you coming back! Work hard on all your singles to feel great! Start doing waltz jump/loop ... | |
| Beginning Coaching | 5/14/2006 |
| Q: I'm looking into starting coaching, but am having some unsure thoughts. First of all, I am ... A: coaching is a tough business. Hopefully you have a competitive skating background. It is not ... | |
| Beginner Dance Blades | 5/3/2006 |
| Q: I've been making the transition from artistic roller skating to figure skating, and have recently ... A: not sure why you bought Synchro blades? They have a shorter heel, but if you want to just ice dance ... | |
| questions | 4/24/2006 |
| Q: I'm 14 and I don't know very much about iceskatig. I am doing a research report in school, and I ... A: most of these answers require alot of further reaearch, but I will sumarize: 1. Most jumps vary in ... | |
| questions | 4/23/2006 |
| Q: I'm 14 and I don't know very much about iceskatig. I am doing a research report in school, and I ... A: that is a long list of questions that you may want to research more. You can link to alot of ... | |
| stroking session | 4/19/2006 |
| Q: Do you have any suggestion for a good and fun stroking session? Thanks CD A: I've always used music and lots of different challenges. Round and round is boring! Use cones or ... | |
| A different type of skater! | 4/17/2006 |
| Q: I am 37 years old returning to skating after being away for 20 years. I actually am now training ... A: wow believe it or not I did that as a child. I was forced to learn spins the other way for me in ... | |
| spins | 3/26/2006 |
| Q: My name is nicole.i have been skatin for awhile now but just about every time i spin i go on my toe ... A: Spinning is hard to master. Have your coach check your blades. Recreational blades don't cut it ... | |
| Re-entering skating, possible coaching | 3/19/2006 |
| Q: I skated for almost 8 years and left in 1998 to pursue other interests. I left having achieved ... A: If you get some skills back coaching would be terrific, you could be very inspirational! Talk to ... | |
| Ballet | 3/11/2006 |
| Q: My 9 year old daughter has just started freestyle and I've noticed that many skaters both above and ... A: ballet is great for any level. I don't see how it can hinder you unless it is not a good school. ... | |
| Does it matter choose the blade fit skater's level | 3/10/2006 |
| Q: Dianne, It's me again. I got two schools of thoughts about choosing blades. One said you got to ... A: I feel blades are primary! Gold Seal would be fine. Alternatives that lots of high level skaters ... | |
| Too old? | 3/9/2006 |
| Q: I am 21 and have been skating for 5 months and have done all my single jumps, and am starting to ... A: wow sounds like you are doing amazing. But reality is Olympic level skating is a very long road. ... | |
| figure skating | 3/7/2006 |
| Q: how do you win figure skating? A: the skater with highest piont total after the short and long program wins! Skaters are judged on ... | |
| Skates | 3/3/2006 |
| Q: I am hoping you know a thing or two about hockey skates. I have a pair of Bauer 1000's that fit real ... A: Sorry I don't know about hockey skates. It sounds like you are on the right track. Perhaps go back ... | |
| Dear Miss DeLeeuw, My... | 3/2/2006 |
| Q: My name is Rianne and I am a freshman in New Jersey. I found your name through Noodletools which has ... A: Wow lots of questions! 1. Training is intense. I spent 6-8 hours per day. Plus dance, stretching, ... | |
| Fitness foudations | 2/27/2006 |
| Q: could you please explain me an importantce of the fitness components (velocity, power, strenght, ... A: sorry I was away. All the aspects of fitness you discussed are important. I have not studied ... | |
| Double Jumps | 2/25/2006 |
| Q: I had just one more question. What would be the easier Double Jump in your opinion or any beginning ... A: Dbl Axel is by far the hardest. It is still tough for Olympic skaters. Once you have single axel, ... | |
| questions | 2/22/2006 |
| Q: I have a question. my daughter is 14 and just convinced me that she has a passion for skating.I have ... A: I'm not sure what type of program you have been involved in. Learn to Skate should be levels of ... | |
| Double Jumps (flip) | 2/21/2006 |
| Q: I am skating without a coach and have only been skating for 6 months. However, I have landed all my ... A: But you need some basic technique help. A good coach will give a lesson to help you. 1. Work ... | |
| Training Videos Recommendation | 2/21/2006 |
| Q: Dianne, We took your advice and my daughter started her own on ice practicing session last week. ... A: glad it is working so far. Don't worry about needing to fix things...that is your coaches job. ... | |
| Dying to Skate | 2/18/2006 |
| Q: I am a 20 year old advanced ballet and jazz dancer who desparatly wants to be on the ice. From the ... A: it is pretty hard starting at 20 to compete as a pro. But there is a huge world of Adult skating. ... | |
| figure skating-- missing and adding elements | 2/17/2006 |
| Q: If a figure skater misses a planned element, can he/she make up for it later? For example, when Weir ... A: the rules are tricky. In Short Program you cannot add or retry. In the Freeskate you are only ... | |
| Starting fresh | 2/17/2006 |
| Q: I'm 16 and I've recently taken up skating again, after giving up at the age of 10 (started skating ... A: glad you are skating again. Half flip starts on a back outside edge, lutz inside. Mechanics are the ... | |
| How to practice without coach? | 2/15/2006 |
| Q: Dianne, My daughter has been skating about 20 months now. She used to be able to go to skating in ... A: Wow I have always encouraged practice! My students learn early proper practice. You cannot always ... | |
| Hi | 2/15/2006 |
| Q: DeLeleeuw, I took your advice and i'm doing both.I think that if i improve and get a coach then i ... A: you can work hard and do well but only a few ever make the Olympics. It is a very long regimin to ... | |
| ISI competition requirements | 2/12/2006 |
| Q: I have a competition next weekend, and I am in FS 5. It says you have to have a dance step sequence ... A: your coach or the rinks team coach can best help you. You needed to do prescribed Dance steps in ... | |
| Skates | 2/4/2006 |
| Q: I go skating about 2 days a week just to be on the ice to clear my mind and rental fees are starting ... A: I'm not familiar with the CCM since they don't carry them here. But have someone at a pro shop work ... | |
| When is an appropriate to begin skating? | 2/4/2006 |
| Q: When is an appropriate age to begin skating? My daughter is two and a half, is this too early? ... A: Mom and Tot is a great way to start. It will be fun for both of you. You will learn enough to at ... | |
| figure skating | 1/31/2006 |
| Q: What are the eqipments, and techniques figure skaters need? A: figure skating can be enjoyed indoors or out. All you need is ice and skates. But there really is ... | |
| becoming a professional ice skater | 1/22/2006 |
| Q: i am very very interested in training to become a professional ice skater. i love the doubles with ... A: not to be negative but training to be a professional is a life long thing. At 23 you can still ... | |
| double loop | 1/12/2006 |
| Q: I have the hardest time with double loop, I freeze up in the air almost like im over checking my ... A: sometimes that last bit of rotation is hard to get. Work on the back spin position, squeezing your ... | |
| pulling in my dbl sal and dbl toe | 12/12/2005 |
| Q: hey dianne! I've been having alot of trouble pulling in my dbl sal and double toe. i can land on ... A: distance won't do it...height will. Work on more lift to get time in the air. Spend time ... | |
| What blades to purchase? | 12/10/2005 |
| Q: My daughter is a juvenile level skater. She is working on her double axel and will be starting ... A: My students love the Ultima Freestyle. Pick is big and looks mean but they all handle it well. I ... | |
| Links | 12/5/2005 |
| Q: This year is our first year our daughter age 9 is performing in compatition. Is there any good web ... A: this will take you a bit. Watch TV events to get some of the big stuff. Your daughter and coach ... | |
| Lutz Flutz | 12/3/2005 |
| Q: I've been having trouble recently with the lutz because it has turned into a flutz :( How can I stay ... A: this is a common and a hard ro fix problem! Just watch the TV. Work hard on your BO edge. I teach ... | |
| Double Flip | 12/3/2005 |
| Q: I would like to ask about the double flip. How can you get enough height and rotate quick enough so ... A: Double flip must get the spring from the skating leg not the pick. Practice lifting up on the ... | |
| Music Suggestions | 12/3/2005 |
| Q: I need new music soon and I was wondering if you have any suggestions on music. I would prefer ... A: music is personal! You can listen to alot of exerpts on sites like itunes. Try some of the the ... | |
| Music Choice | 12/1/2005 |
| Q: We are looking for 1 minute music for our daughters first solo skate in compition. Any ideas on what ... A: I do this alot. Music for most is very personal. You are very safe with movie or show music. If ... | |
| Axel Problems | 11/29/2005 |
| Q: As you can probably already tell from the title, I have been having trouble with my Axel. This is ... A: Axel is a real hard one for everyone to learn. You need to be a bit fearless! I go though your ... | |
| Exercises to strengthen muscles? | 11/28/2005 |
| Q: I'm taking an ice skating class at my college right now and I was wondering if you could give me any ... A: skating is your best exercise ever! Get out there and practice as much as you can. For off-ice all ... | |
| Average skater improvement | 11/27/2005 |
| Q: I would like to ask about how an average skater improves in relation to time, such as at about a ... A: Wow...a double loop in ayear is amazing! Progress is very individual. It depends on age, size, ... | |
| regarding figure skating | 11/26/2005 |
| Q: I am 9 years old & started skating 3years back. I can do jumps better than spins. I do mapes(2) ... A: sounds like you are doing great. Hopefully you have a good coach to guide you. Talk to your coach ... | |
| new skates and blades! | 11/10/2005 |
| Q: I'm in the market for some new boots and blades, and i was wondering if you would be able to offer ... A: sounds like you are going in the right direction. I personally wear the 3500 Jackson and many of my ... | |
| isi levels | 10/6/2005 |
| Q: ok, i can do all the jumps on and below freestyle 4. My problem is spins. My spins are horrible. My ... A: I have had a few students with this trouble. First of all what blade are you on? If it is a ... | |
| that dang axel | 9/25/2005 |
| Q: I am having so many issues with my axel! I can do it off ice over and over, and I can do all my ... A: wow is this a common problem! The worst thing is it can return even after you get the axel. And ... | |
| Toe off on double toe loop | 8/18/2005 |
| Q: Hi! Coming over from roller where I had all doubles (except axel), so I know where to center the ... A: sounds like you are doing great so far. Double toe is tough for ex roller. You tend to want to ... | |
| Speed | 8/13/2005 |
| Q: Dianne I will start my second year of rec.hockey this Fall. I know you are a figure skater but I ... A: figure skaters generally have more power than hockey players because they have been taught proper ... | |
| Heat activated reinforcements | 6/17/2005 |
| Q: I was looking at Riedell's Silver Star 355 boots and they mentioned that it had heat activated ... A: heat molding is pretty common in most better skates. The boot goes in a special oven and you lace ... | |
| enquiry | 6/15/2005 |
| Q: I enjoy watching figure skating competitions whenever they are shown on tv. I know the competitors ... A: This is a hard one for me. When I competed you were an amateur and only won your medal and a prize ... | |
| competitions | 6/9/2005 |
| Q: I have been skating for about 2 years and I am beginning to learn my axel. The only problem is, is ... A: I thought I sent you a response already, but maybe it did not go thru? Any way...competition is a ... | |
| Sitspin | 5/7/2005 |
| Q: I'm having trouble with my sitspin and I'm wondering how to improve it. I can do sitspins off ice ... A: sitspin is tough! Keep trying to press that free leg acrosstowards the other leg. Work on getting ... | |
| cheorography | 4/3/2005 |
| Q: I am a college student writing a paper on the influence of dance and choreogrophy on figure skating. ... A: choreography is a very important part of figure skating both as a sport and art. As art a skater is ... | |
| help | 3/28/2005 |
| Q: i have a question. do u have any good suggestions for music to skate to? i enjoy jazzy/fun music to ... A: music is sometimes tough. You can listen to excerpts on some internet sites. I use i-tunes alot. ... | |
| Parabolic blade | 3/22/2005 |
| Q: What do you know about parabolic blade? Is it worth spending money on it? I'm going to buy John ... A: none of my students use them, so I'm really not able to answer that. Personal preference these days ... | |
| younger champions | 3/8/2005 |
| Q: In the singles discipline, it seems that young ladies are peaking at an earlier age (compared to ... A: the skaters do seem young because to become a Senior with figures it took many years and a certain ... | |
| New Scoring | 3/8/2005 |
| Q: Dianne, Just wanted to get your take on the new scoring system. As a pro, I am having a hard time ... A: as anything new it is hard to grasp. I think it kind of takes excitement away for fans. Also I ... | |
| skates | 2/19/2005 |
| Q: And some more qoestions, if you don't mind. Can a beginner skate in professional skates? Or it is ... A: the more expensive boots are the more padding and stiffness you get. You may not want the ... | |
| skates | 2/18/2005 |
| Q: I'm going to buy skates. I'm just a beginner, could you describe how good skates look like? Thank ... A: always buy from a pro shop or reputable dealer. They can guide you to what you need for your size ... | |
| double jumps.. | 2/12/2005 |
| Q: Im working on all my double jumps(except for the double axel) and I'm able to get the full rotation. ... A: sounds like it could be several problems: 1. Core strength, work on being strong on the landing. Do ... | |
| Skating Rink and Choreography | 2/9/2005 |
| Q: I am 13 and I have been skating for 3 years, and I am at the preliminary level. I skate at the ... A: you need a coach to help you do a program! They know the requirements etc. But picking the best ... | |
| Double Axel | 1/28/2005 |
| Q: My daughter is stuggling with her double axel. Triples are coming along very nicely. She is ... A: double axel is so hard to master! Try to remember what a hurdle axel was. There are hundreds of ... | |
| Adult Skating | 12/18/2004 |
| Q: I am 32 yrs. old and have had a passion for figure skating since I was a child. I am now seriously ... A: Adult skating is HUGE! There are many competitions for all levels of adults. Check out: ... | |
| Music rights | 11/3/2004 |
| Q: ---Thank you for your info. & quick answer. I just want to clarify a few points- I chose and paid ... A: Wow, I'm not sure of the answer. There are many factors...are there rinks nearby to move to for a ... | |
| Camel spin | 10/22/2004 |
| Q: I am having difficulty doing a good camel spin - I tend to get my toepick stuck in the ice which ... A: this happens to skaters alot! Make sure your entrance curve is deep enough. If it is short and ... | |
| Confidence? | 10/20/2004 |
| Q: I have a 14 yearold (will turn 15 March 2005) who can not seem to land her jumps right before ... A: this is a VERY common issue, especially your age group. It sounds like your daughter is motivated ... | |
| Teaching Beta-Gamma | 9/24/2004 |
| Q: I have just picked up teaching a Bata-Gamma class. I have been figure skating for about 16 years, ... A: this is an important level! It must be fun because it is hard. Make sure everyone learns proper ... | |
| Grass Roots Coaching | 8/14/2004 |
| Q: as a fellow panelist I would like your opinon and advice. I am having a hard time finding full-time ... A: being a "name" does not assure you of being good coach. Coaching is a tough game! As a school ... | |
| Figures | 7/14/2004 |
| Q: Hey Diane, hope your summer is going well. I am totally an old school coach when it comes to the ... A: I loved figures, doing them and teaching them! Skaters today do not understand skating. Losing ... | |
| blade advice | 7/6/2004 |
| Q: Wow, this is exciting being able to ask you a question. Watching you and Dorothy Hamill in 1976 is ... A: boots are really personal. As far as blades I tried Gold Star and did not like them (again an ... | |
| The other judges at the Olympics | 7/6/2004 |
| Q: I'm not an expert at all of figure skating. But, like almost everybody, I like to watch it. One ... A: but there was alot more to the whole thing. The French judge was an "arranger". It was not just ... | |
| PR | 6/28/2004 |
| Q: Chris Howarth new national training coordinator KNSB figure skating is starting up pairs and ice ... A: this sounds exciting to see some talent represent the Netherlands in skating. I'm not quite sure ... | |
| Am I too old to learn? | 6/24/2004 |
| Q: I am almost 22 years old and I began taking ice skating lessons about 4 months ago. I think I'm ... A: Wow...someone has not told you about the wonderful world of Adult competition! Check out ... | |
| Tot skating | 6/7/2004 |
| Q: My 3.5 yr old has been taking group lessons since January. She seems to enjoy skating and is ... A: I'm not sure where you are writing from but in California there is competition in ISI for her age. ... | |
| Blades | 5/3/2004 |
| Q: I am a skating mom with a lot of confusion over which blade to purchase for my daughter. She is ... A: blade selection can be confusing. But I've never had a problem with weight. Mirage would not be ... | |
| child skater | 4/30/2004 |
| Q: My daughter is 7 years old and has been taking private lessons for about a year. Can you tell me ... A: the rate of progress is different for all! It depends on many factors...mostly practice habits! I ... | |
| bad habits | 4/28/2004 |
| Q: I have a beautiful double toe, however, every now and then I will "lose" it. I have a terrible habit ... A: You sound just like one of my students! Actualy several of them. Skating is a challenge! What is ... | |
| nervs and consistancy | 4/18/2004 |
| Q: I am a figure skater in B.C. and I was just wondering how you help your students to conquer their ... A: this is a hard problem. There is no solution that works for everyone! I find that making sure the ... | |
| Figure Skating | 4/8/2004 |
| Q: I have a daughter who will turn six years old in September 2004. She is now at Stage 4 of CanSkate. ... A: I'm not familiar with Canada's program. But I teach alot of tots ISI and USFS. One-legged or ... | |
| Spiral | 3/30/2004 |
| Q: Dianne, A student of mine asked me how the "spiral" was named. I spent some time searching the ... A: I really do not know that one. I do know there have always been arguments that the name Spiral is ... | |
| the double axel | 3/28/2004 |
| Q: ive been working on my double axel for a round 2 weeks and I know i have to jump high to get the 2.5 ... A: the double axel is tough! Work off ice to quicken rotation. In order to complete the jump you must ... | |
| skills | 3/15/2004 |
| Q: I think that is so great that people volunteer there time on here to answer questions. Okay to my ... A: you need to get a copy of the "Skaters and Coaches handbook" from ISI. It details everything from ... | |
| Becoming a coach | 3/4/2004 |
| Q: This is a receipt for a question you recently asked at allexperts.com of Clyde Hammer . You should ... A: every rink and area has different requirements. You may find want ads in PSA, ISI, and STAR ... | |
| athlete funding | 2/19/2004 |
| Q: I am 16 yrs. old from NYC. I love figure skating! I started when I was 11 but did not start lessons ... A: I'm glad to hear you love skating! But it is costly. Check with your rink perhaps you could work ... | |
| am i too old??? | 2/15/2004 |
| Q: i am from NYC and I am 16 yrs. old. I have been taking lessons for 2 and half a year and I am taking ... A: you can never tell. Look at Butraskaya...she was late 20's wnen she became World Champion. But you ... | |
| judges salary | 2/10/2004 |
| Q: i was just wondering how much those figure skating judges make in the olympics. also, do test ... A: it is a volunteer job with perks. Sometimes it is travel, lodging, etc. The bigger the event the ... | |
| double trouble | 2/8/2004 |
| Q: I am cheating my double axle. Sometimes I can do it clean. What are some hints on how to get it ... A: cheating means under rotating. So the main thing is to get more rotation. You may simply need to ... | |
| skates..... | 12/12/2003 |
| Q: my 4.5 year just had her first isi competition and loved it !Her skates are too small and we need to ... A: The Classique skate is good for most little ones. The blade is ok till they really start jumping. ... | |
| Hi! I love skating so mucha... | 11/27/2003 |
| Q: I love skating so mucha nd have been skating for about 1 and a half years. I am now in Freestyle 3. ... A: first of all you are doing great to have accomplished so much in such a short time! Spins depend on ... | |
| Speed | 11/26/2003 |
| Q: I have been attending adult figure skating lessons with my wife for the past two years,and I started ... A: speed comes from power. Power comes from edge pressure when you push. NEVER use your toepicks! ... | |
| A question about blades... | 8/2/2003 |
| Q: I'm 19 years old and I've been skating for about a year. I'm planning to buy a new pair of boots and ... A: these will last you awhile I presume. My students are going with the new Ultima blades. We like ... | |
| Camels | 7/17/2003 |
| Q: Any suggestions on teaching a beginning camel spin? I know they must be in the "spiral" position at ... A: the entrance is the most important part. Assuming the spin is counter clockwise, make sure you hold ... | |
| Starting Out | 5/2/2003 |
| Q: I've been a ballet dancer for several years (I've studied many other types of dance as well as ... A: it is never too late to skate! There are opportunities everywhere to skate & perform. Find a coach ... | |
| Teaching Figure Skating | 3/31/2003 |
| Q: I am a young Australian Coach just starting out - I am going for my Level 1 qualification here. I ... A: teaching skating in the US these days is difficult. You need to be a member of PSA, ISI, USFSA. ... | |
| Judging | 3/24/2003 |
| Q: I am a 60 year old college freshman and am doing a ten page thesis on fairness of judging in ice ... A: this is a tough question! First you must define bias. At a low level it could be as simple as you ... | |
| heat moldable boots | 3/9/2003 |
| Q: Can you tell me what those "heat Moldable" boots are? How do they mold to your foot? Thank you., A: the boots are heated in a special oven. Theb you lace them up tight and they cool molded to your ... | |
| Fitting of skates | 3/6/2003 |
| Q: I think my custom made Harlick skates are too long, but I'm not sure..The end of my big toe is a ... A: sounds like they are long. Harlick is usually good at fixing the problems but it will take awhile. ... | |
| Lessons/Cost | 9/10/2002 |
| Q: my first pair of skates were $40, I got them at a thrift store, but they're 2 sizes too big :( ... A: I have no way of telling cost since there are hundreds of styles. A good beginner pair new can be ... | |
| Phantom or Pattern 99 | 8/1/2002 |
| Q: I have been using the Phantom for a year now. I really have had no major issues. I would like to try ... A: I've used Phantom forever and most of my students doing doubles or triples do. Pattern 99 never has ... | |
Dianne DeLeeuw
Top Expert on this page
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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