Top Technique Tip: Spread Eagle
The spread eagle is synonymous with figure skating. It’s a common connecting step that’s all about gliding and grace, speed and perfection. Today’s Top Technique Tip will help you achieve a spread eagle that soars.
- Skaters of all levels can do spread eagles. Don’t be afraid to try.
- A spread eagle follows a circular curve on the inside or outside edge. Don’t be tempted to glide in a straight line–follow the curve.
- Knees and legs should remain as straight as possible.
- Tuck your hips beneath you; don’t stick out your backside. It detracts from the visual and can force you off the curve onto a straight line.
- Are you flexible? Try a spread eagle leaning back on your outside edges. Not so flexible? Try it leaning forward on the inside edge.
If you’ve never tried a spread eagle before, start with the inside edge because it’s a bit easier. Once you’ve got the move down, incorporate graceful arm and head movements and try it with some speed. You’ll feel like you’re flying!
April 19th, 2010 at 4:54 am
I wonder if my skate boots are too stiff for the spread eagle on the outside edge. I sthat possible? I used to be able to do it quite easily, but with these boots, which I have had for a whole year or more, it is difficult. maybe I used to flex my ankle and now it isn´t possible. Experience? Comments?
April 20th, 2010 at 10:06 am
It is possible that the stiffness of your boots is making it harder to do a spread eagle on the outside edge. Though maybe the thing to do is to alter your technique a bit so that you’re depending more on your weight leaning back into the circle than on your ankle flexibility. The best way to do this is to tuck your hips underneath, so that they are not sticking out behind you. Also, you’ll need a bit of speed to maintain the circle on that outside edge. Good luck!