THE TRIPLE AXEL

The Impact of Figures in Skating

2009-07-20T02:04:00.002-05:00

Prior to the nineties, figure-skating competitions included a segment known as compulsory figures, in which the skater traced a set pattern on the ice, or the figure eight. Competitors had to skate the figures using a prescribed part of the blade, which included change of edge, steps and turns that were performed at specific points on the skating surface. Compulsory figures trained skaters to be faster, more quick-feet, and allowed them the ability to flow on the ice as well.

School of figures was the very foundation of skating. Figure Skating was named for the art form which involved creating intricate patterns on the ice with the edges of the blades. As a result, compulsory figures became a must for training and competitions. Compulsory figures were based on the figure eight and its variations. Skaters traced identical patterns on the ice three times and were judged on their ability to replicate the exact figures in the same place. They made circles on the ice with one foot, then retrace those circles with the other foot. The circles are the actual figures from which the term figure skating is stemmed.

The completed tracings left by the skater's blades were evaluated by judges. Judges would study and grade the patterns. Points were deducted if the skater skated outside of the line; or if there were additional tracings or wobbling. These intricate patterns into the ice, were designed to assure the judges that the skaters had mastered the fundamentals of their sport.

Skaters spend hours skating patches- Patch practice sessions were usually one-hour in length. Most skaters usually practiced at least two hours of patch time per day. These patches of ice were completely clean pieces of ice with not a mark or skid on them. The skater’s objective was to trace perfect circles on these clean pieces of ice

Figures allow them to learn edge control, good posture, and balance. Ideally, edges were supposed to be clean without scratches, undesired changes of an edge, or without evidence of no edge tracing. Now figures are no longer part of elite competition. With these changes, the emphasis in the free skate shifted to an increase in athleticism or a jumping contest.

Up until 1990, compulsory figures were part of the singles figure skating competition. Skaters had to execute figures which were then measured by judges. According to the review of literature, the judges sometimes used the school figures as a means of marking up or marking down skaters. The figures were also used by some judges as a basis for down grading newer skaters. Typically, a skater in his/her first appearance at an international competition would not expect high marks in the school figures, even if he or she might have felt that they had skated solid figures.

Even after the school figures were reduced from sixty percent to thirty percent of the overall score, with the new short program weighing twenty percent and the long program fifty percent by the 1980s, skaters who built a vast lead in figures had a strong chance of winning the competition. Figures still had a great impact on the final outcome.

The omission of compulsory has also taken a toll on the sport; compulsory figures are needed to teach skaters basic skills. Abolishing the compulsories has resulted skating into jumping contests and in turn may cause more injuries. Skating is about control, centering and balance. Those are the things school of figures brought. Now that we don't have school of figures, skaters are turning to ice dance instructors to teach them what they need to maintain speed and flow on the ice.

Compulsory is different from free skating. It is very difficult and has kept many skaters from the top of the podium. Many competitors feel that compulsories have no place in modern skating; they think it to be tedious, and boring to watch. Denise Bielman, like many skaters, did not like to practice figures. She preferred the free skate which gave her the freedom to bounce spin and dance to the music.

Now that figures are a thing of the past, skaters are flocking to dance instructors to teach them what they need to do to maintain speed, and flow on the ice. The omission of figures has impacted the art in the sport as well. Figures gave skaters the foundation they needed to balance, control, and command the ice. A skater cannot be an artist if those skills are lacked. This quality of skating is paramount to the art of skating. In the end, the sport will remain a jumping contest among prepubescent teens. The compulsories give students the quality of edges, technique, and control they need.

Sasha Cohen: The Pressure to Win.

2009-07-11T08:43:00.006-05:00

Sasha is an avid skater, a talented artist; she has modeled in major magazines, walked the red carpet, and has skated in many countries. As the two-time and reigning World Silver Medalist, the 2006 U.S. National Champion, Grand Prix Final Champion, and 2-Time Olympic Team Member (2002 and 2006), Sasha is a sure podium contender for the 2010 Olympic Games. Sasha has experience.

Alexandra Pauline Cohen was named after her mother's favorite ballerina. She was born on October 26, 1984. Sasha's mother is of Ukrainian background and she is a former ballerina. Because of her Russian heritage, Sasha can converse in Russian. She has translated competitor Viktoria Volchkova's interview responses from Russian to English at the 2001 Trophée Lalique competition (Cup Of Paris).

Sasha began skating around the age of seven. Prior to starting figure skating, she used to be a gymnast and had progressed to level five. Apparently, her mom was relieved when she made the switch to figure skating. She enjoys reading. One or her favorite places to be, is the public library. After years of hard work and training, Sasha is renowned. She has become one of the skaters in the world today. She won her first silver medal at the 2000 U.S. Nationals. Sasha missed the 2001 Nationals because of a serious back injury which required her to take time off from training. At the 2002 U.S. Nationals, she earned her second silver medal and a spot on the 2002 Olympic Team.

Her gymnastic background has made her resilient when it comes to sustaining those spills on the ice. She has a great deal of experience. I am going on a limb to say that Sasha Cohen knows the why, the where and the how when it comes to her skating. She knows her body. Things may not always be "perfect," however Sasha should know how to compete by now.

She is a different person from the inexperienced youngster who was introduced to us in 2000. She can handle skating. She may just need to reinvent herself. We should never think of inconsistency, or spills, by the mere mention of Sasha's name. She has nothing to learn as this point. Sasha needs to be more confident when it comes to the technical aspects of her skating. She has always verbalized (like most skaters) that she is having fun on the ice; when in reality, she does (they do) not believe in those words. Those are rehearsed thoughts for the media and viewers' sake. Deep down, most skaters don't believe they are having "fun" Those skaters are preoccupied with the ultimate goal.

Vying for top spot is well and good; however, it should not be the main focus. Like Sara Hughes, Sasha (or any other skaters) should be getting on that ice with the objective that she has nothing to lose. She really should believe that she is actually there to have fun. Skating well is the ultimate prize. The medal will be the bonus. She should approach both programs ( short and free) as if a flawless skate is her driving force; the prize she wants to obtain.

She has an exciting season ahead of her.

At this point, Sasha ( Flatt included) should be beyond feeling the pressure to win. Let the other skaters from other countries succumb to pressure or be pressured. Let them be the ones with that "something to lose" preoccupying their mind and their programs. Our skaters (we) live in a free society, it won't be the end of the world if they don't bring home the gold.

Sasha will be prepared. She just has to skate the way she does at practice. Her quest should be to skate well. According to Sasha, skating is her own commitment, her hard work and that no one is pushing her to do it. And, that is how she should approach the upcoming season. She is skating on her own terms.

As far as I am concerned, Sasha would benefit if she were to practice in a vacuum; without the interference, the scolding and the criticisms of the media. She does not need to be reminded of her flaws or her inconsistencies. She does not need to be asked if gold will be her color, or whom she she feels she has to beat; nor does she need to be compared to other skaters ( "I must think I am living in Utopia"). This type of attention can be nerve-racking. All of the skaters are good in their own way. They are a gifted bunch. Sasha needn't be perfect; nor does she need to skate perfectly. Sasha needs to be Sasha. She needs to skate and be there for Sasha.

I am keeping my fingers crossed that she is (Flatt, Meissner, Zhang, Nagasu,Hughes as well as the other skaters are ) injury free. Sasha can be unstoppable. She must first have to free her herself of the burden of having to be perfect. Her artistry, flawless connections, fluid extensions and techniques will be the determining factor. She has nothing to lose.

Her artistry, the way she interprets the music, the way she relates to the audience, her spiral and straight-line step sequence will set her apart; in turn, she will earn high marks with the judges. She is ready. She has the ability to skate two solid performances. She does not have to be perfect.

Take The Quad Out!

2009-06-09T13:53:00.011-05:00

While the most exciting portions of figure skating routine (for some) are the jumps, these high-flying athletic moves are the ultimate feats of a skater’s ability. Jumps, in figure skating, come in two varieties, rotational and positional. Positional jumps are short jumps that display an artistic position in the air. The primary objective of rotational jumps is to rotate while airborne. In these jumps, the skater appears to spin in the air. Skaters’ routines are measured partly on rotational jumps. For a quad, skaters have to achieve maximum rotation. While skaters need to develop as much rotational energy as possible, it is important that they obtain the best possible rotational position during the airborne portion of a performance as well.

Dick Button landed the first triple in 1952. Kurt Browning of Canada landed the first quad in 1982. Today, the quad jumps have become required elements in the men’s program. Quad toe loops seem to be the most frequently attempted quad jumps. While many skaters credit Jozef Sabovchik of Slovakia with landing the first quad jump, in 1984, at the Winter Olympics. The first official quad was performed by Kurt Browning at the 1988 world championships. Suddenly the quad is the rage. How far will we go with those risky jumps? Do we want five six rotations in the air? Are we looking for as many revolutions until we run out of numerical prefixes? What is the limit of jumping possibilities? Is a quintuple toe loop or a quadruple Axel in our future?

The jump is called a quadruple toe loop, and it is performed by gliding backward on the right skate, planting the left toe pick, lifting off with an outside edge of the right skate, spinning four times and landing on the same outside edge of the right skate. Art, science, agility and strength have all been used in describing skaters. However, it takes a high degree of difficulty to achieve the quad. The key is to get the optimal combination of height and rotation. There are four key events for the quad. Toe-pick: the instant the toe pick is planted onto the ice; Take off: the last contact with the ice; Height: the top of the flight phase; Landing: the immediate contact with the ice. Obviously, the quad alone will not win a title; it's the total package, the artistry, the spins and the footwork. Obviously the focused should be on elements other than just the jumps.

A mistake in the quad costs dear while skaters can gain points on easier jumps. Doing a quad comes down to risk vs. reward in a judging system that puts emphasis on energy-sapping footwork and stiffly penalizes faulty jumps. The quadruple toe loop, is worth 9.8 points. The quad can come at a price. If you do it, you're a star. But if there is anything wrong with it -for instance, a fall, or it's under rotated, or too weak to do a combination after it, it's downgraded. There are very few skaters who can make a mistake on the quad and still land it. A negative grade of execution can cost up to three points. A triple Axel is worth 8.2 points. When it is done well, it can earn up to three bonus points. So why risk falling on a quad when you're more likely to land a clean triple Axel anyhow?

Rotational energy is the fuel that skaters work with, and they have to have energy to work with. The quad is an important jump. It's fun. It's interesting. It's beautiful when it's done right. While the quad is big news, I wonder if it will be some time before figure skaters are doing quintuple jumps. If you can do a quad well, by all means do it. But skating should never be about the jumps. It should be poetry on ice! No quad. While I agree that quad jumpers should be given more points, because of the tremendous risks involved, but I would rather be very pleased with the attention given to creativity and to the art we are so used to when it comes to skating.

The quad jump is a spectacular move. It is a neat and exciting. With the techniques and equipment currently used now, I think the athletes are pushing the envelope. I don't see a quint any time soon or a quad Axel. I do see the other more difficult quads --Lutz's and flips however-- being done soon as well as more consistent and higher quality jumps. To add a revolution may take a while (or maybe not) and potentially some new technique, training or equipment modifications to the sport. I imagine that with different technologies in boots, blades, along with different training techniques, strength-training, and perhaps costumes, it might be possible for skaters to land bigger jumps.

There are limits to what the human body can do and I wonder how close we are to them in the sport of figure skating. I long for the good ole 6.0 system. Weir has complained of the new system, saying such things as, “It gives you points for being able to chew on your shoes,“ Concerns for artistic expression has become secondary with the preoccupation of racking up points. Technical ability does not only pertain to jumps, but it includes spins, footwork, and a general flexibility. I just love to watch figure skating, and to witness the numerous feats of athleticism, skill, courage, endurance and passion.

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Go for it Sasha: Cohen 2010

2009-06-03T06:48:00.005-05:00

Figure skating is one of the most difficult and demanding sport in the world. However, skaters have been landing triple jumps since before World War II. Great figure skating, does not mean one must dig their toe pick into the ice and rotate or revolve as much as they possibly can. I mourn the passing of the glorious spiral. No more do we see the absolutely fluid spirals; courtesy of Michelle Kwan, complete with the most radiant smile that has us totally convinced that she was absolutely loving every minute spent on ice. I don't care how high you can leap or rotate; one fact remains, no youngsters have seized the moment since Kwan. Those who could fill the void of fluid, entertaining and artistic skating are gone. Sasha can restore pride in the United States team.

It is refreshing to find skaters like Sasha Cohen who can inject life experience into their choreography. I love to watch Sasha. Her presence on the ice is one of pristine and incredible beauty. The leg extension, the spiral, the elasticity, the fluidity she displays as she glides across the ice are just marvelous.

It is such a pleasure to watch Sasha skates, and I am very glad she wants to come back, and she has as much chance as any of the skaters to get the crown. Under the Code of Points scoring system, Cohen often scored more points in the free skate than other ladies scored during the entire competition. She skates with grace and elegance. Her presentation and connecting moves are just outstanding, including her gorgeous Charlotte. She just has to have two good clean skates. While Yu Na Kim may appear invincible, don’t get me wrong, I find her to be one of the best skaters yet; however, all of the expectations may rattle her, or anyone for that matter. As a result, she may have a not so stellar skate, and “we” may in turn be surprise yet again. Someone unknown, from out of no where may come and snatch the spotlight. It has happened in our own backyard. Remember Mirai Nagasu? when all of the attention were on Zhang and Meissner, and Nagasu took the crown. She became the “future of figure skating.” Then again Yu Na never disappoints. She is the best skater in the world right now, maybe the best ever. She has jumps, flexibility, artistry, flair, fluidity and most important: consistency. If she skates her best which we know she will, there is no doubt that the crown will be hers.

This season Asada has attempted two triple Axels, in her Long Program and let’s not disregard the judges’ imposition on those skaters. Skaters are being penalized for incomplete rotations, or wrong edges entry. Sasha, may just finally have that stellar competition that she’s been missing from her amateur career days. She has a very hard road ahead of her however. I've always felt that Miss Cohen is one of the greatest talents to ever glide on the ice; but she lacks consistency and the focus, a huge hindrance in any sport, even more in figure skating.

The problem with Sasha is her lack of consistency in her jumps; as a result, it may lower her base value to a point where winning can almost be impossible. Sasha has it all: grace, elegance, and she knows how to interpret her music. Her focus should be on securing her jumps. She'll have to work hard on clean entries and clean landing of her jumps. Her incredible flexibility, artistry and flair will take care of the rest. She will be unbeatable then.

I have always been a huge fan of Sasha's and am very excited to see her come back. She will bring a lot of excitement to skating nationally and internationally. If only there were three spots available, it would be a marvel to see Meissner, Cohen, and Flatt in action. There is a distinctive charm to their skating. Those three have what audiences enjoy.

Sasha had not been very consistent with her jumps during the height of her competitive career. Strong spirals and great flexibility are great assets; however, they are not enough. The International Figure Skating Union (ISU) Technical Panels regularly awards Level 4 designation to many ladies' spiral sequences at any given high level competition such as Worlds for instance. The value of Spin Sequence, even at Level 4 is only worth 2.9, the difference will come down to the Grade of Execution (GOE) which may be minimal. Flexibility may earn some extra points for Sasha, but mental toughness is what will lead to the gold medal. In the Ladies’ event, the difference between victory and crushed dreams is often how one handles the pressure of this Olympic main event. Sasha cannot let nerves get the best of her. Her spins and spirals might be high levels. However, the jumps have to be clean.

The women's long program at the Olympic Games may be the hardest moment to deal with. Sasha is a great skater, but she has not been a clean skater. She had either a clean short program and a bad long program or a bad short program and a good long program. Before she considers returning to competitive figure skating, Sasha would need concentrate on two clean programs. Sasha has good spins and great flexibility however she is limited (as far as landing the jumps)when compared against a Triple Axel or a consistent and very well executed Triple Flip-Triple Toe combos that her competitors will be doing. Her Charlotte is an absolutely gorgeous move. Our team would be solid with Cohen Meissner, and/or Flatt, or perhaps Wagner and/or Hacker on the scene.

Sasha is the most artistic skater in the world today. She brings a quality to skating that most skaters sought after. Cohen would bring considerable experience to the United States team. She has unparalleled spins, spirals and lovely positions. Cohen is a mesmerizing skater who charms crowds. She has shown that she can make up her athletic shortcomings with wowing artistry; Cohen knows very well what is expected of her — and what she expects of herself.

Off-Ice Training For The New Skater

2008-06-14T17:11:00.005-05:00

A lot of skating may build and tone your muscles, however it will be a slow and difficult process if you don't do off ice training. Ballet, Pilates, Yoga and strength training are crucial when it comes to off ice training, this is what truly makes a difference in figure skating. Just like figure skating, you’d be amazed to find out how much muscle is involved when it comes to Ballet, Pilates and Yoga.

This is a standard workout if you are new to figure skating and would like to improve. You will definitely see a big difference if it is practiced:

1. Jump rope for thirty second intervals, with a fifteen-second rest in between them three times.

2. Put your body in a bridge position, with your arms straight, and hold it for thirty seconds. Rest and then do it again, at least three times.

3. Lay flat on your stomach with your arms out in front of you as if you are Superman. Lift up your hands and feet as high as you can and get them as far away from your body as possible. Hold this for ten seconds, then go down for ten seconds. Do at least ten reps. While you are doing them, your stomach should be touching the ground.

4. Squats. Stand straight with your feet under your hips, try standing in front of a mirror in order to make sure you keep proper posture. Put your arms to the side, and when you go down put them in front of you. Don't go down too low, go just pass a right (90 degrees) angle and make sure you don't stick your butt out, just sit with your body straight up. Sit and stand back up ten times. Do as many reps as you can or least three times. As you built strength, you can add additional reps. As they become easier, start adding weights.

5. Stretches. Make sure you stretch before and after any workout.

This routine will help your skating immensely.

Strengthen Your Core And Leg Muscles For Fun Skating

2008-06-14T15:22:00.012-05:00

The reason core strength and leg strength are important for any sport, specifically skating, is because most movements and balance depend on your leg muscles and your core strength. If your core and your leg muscles are weak, it becomes extremely difficult to achieve any skating skills. Good balance not only keeps you steady on your feet, but it helps make your movements powerful. Having a strong core and good leg strength mean better performance in different sports.

En route to a strong body, keep in mind that the body needs fuel. Your nutrition, as well as your training, is equally as important. Make sure you have the right amount of protein necessary for optimal training. Keep your fat intake low. Under no circumstances should you give up your carbs. You need complex carbohydrates. It is what fuel you while you are working out. Eat whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

The core is the center of your body's strength, your "powerhouse" and the foundation for all of your movements. Your legs’ muscles are equally as important in maintaining your balance. They are those muscles that lift your leg to the side, your toes, and they keep you moving forward. It is important to keep those muscle groups strong. The primary abductor that lifts the leg to the side is the gluteus medius; this muscle is of extreme importance to skaters. As you strengthen your core and your leg muscles, balance can be improved. The muscles that comprise the core, pelvis and hips, must be strong in order to work efficiently.

To develop core strength you need to work the muscles of the core. This requires you to do a lot more than your traditional crunches. You can perform moves such as: the Plank exercises which requires that you lay face down on a mat resting on the forearms, with palms flat on the floor. As you push off the floor, raising up onto toes and resting on the elbows. Make sure you keep your back flat, in a straight line from head to heels. Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominal muscles to prevent your rear from sticking up in the air. Hold the position for at lest for 20 to 60 seconds, lower and repeat for 3-5 reps.The plank exercise is a great way to build endurance in both the abs and the back. It helps to stabilize the muscles as well. For the bridge exercise, lie on your back with your knees bent. Keep your back in a neutral position, not arched and not pressed into the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles as you raise your hips off the floor until your hips are aligned with your knees and shoulders. Hold for three deep breaths. Another good exercise for the core is the Russian twist. This is done by sitting on the ground and place your feet under a stable surface. With your knees bent, slightly lean back while keeping your torso straight. With one hand on the other, and arms straight, move your arms from one side to another. Do not pause in the middle. Make sure you breathe properly; do not hold your breath. You can perform this exercise with a weight for a more intense exercise.The Supperman exercise is good to help strengthen your lower back, and it is good helpful way to enhance your balance. While keeping one arm and one leg on the floor, lengthen the opposite arm and leg to a full extension. Contract the muscles in the lower back and buttocks. The great benefit of having good core strength is the fact that you don't have to worry about issues dealing with your back or hip muscles which can lead to other injuries. The possibilities of you missing ice time will be minimized. Core strength can be improved by working on the center of your body. The core exercises help. You strengthen your core muscles. Any exercise that uses the trunk of your body without support helps.

The lower body contains some of your biggest muscles groups which are capable of bearing significant weight. Having good balance means having strong leg muscles as well. The most important muscles in the lower body for good balance are your hips and quadriceps. Exercises for these muscles include Hip Abduction. To strengthen the front of your legs you can do leg press exercises, straight leg raises and Knee extensions.

Hip Abduction: This exercise strengthens the muscles of the outer, upper leg. This exercise is for inner thighs. This is done in a standing posture. Do it with keeping the hip straight and moving the thigh inwards toward the midline of the body. This exercise works the largest hip muscle and inner thigh.

Leg press: Use your abdominal muscles to raise your feet in an arc to a position directly above your head. Repeat until the desired number of repetitions is complete. This is a useful exercise for the quads but it also works the hamstrings and glutes.

Straight leg raises: Contract the quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh. Hold for 10 seconds. Relax and rest for three seconds.

Knee extensions: Sit in a chair, with your back resting against the back of the chair. If your feet are flat on the floor in this position, you should place a rolled-up towel under your knees to lift them up. Only the balls of your feet and your toes should be resting on the floor. Rest your hands on your thighs or on the sides of the chair. Take three seconds to extend your right leg in front of you, parallel to the floor, until your knee is straight.

With your right leg in this position, flex your foot so that your toes are pointing toward your head; hold your foot in this position for at least three seconds. Take five seconds to lower your right leg back to the starting position, so that the ball of your foot rests on the floor again. Repeat with left leg. Alternate legs, until you have done the exercise 10 to 15 times with each leg.

Squat is the best exercise, for leg strength. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointed slightly out, holding dumbbells or a barbell behind your neck and across your shoulders. Keeping your head up, back straight and feet in full contact with the floor, bend at the hips and move your butt backward until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Don't allow your knees to extend in front of your toes. As you Maintain that posture, bring your hips forward as you return to a standing position.

Lunge: Holding dumbbells on your shoulders, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your head up and back straight, bring one leg forward and bend at the knee until your front leg forms a 90-degree angle and the knee of your back leg almost touches the floor. Return to the upright position and alternate legs. Again, keep proper form and don't allow the front knee to pass in front of the toes. Try to maintain a long stride for better results.

Deadlift focuses on the whole posterior chain. Feet should be placed at armpit width with toes slightly out. Shins will be placed next to the bar. The majority of the body weight should begin on the balls of the feet with a transfer to the heels through lockout. The hands should grasp the bar with an over / under grip with the arms outside the knees. The legs should be bent to approximately 60 degrees from vertical with the hips lower than the shoulders. Your head should be looking forward in a neutral position. The chest should be forward, not down. Shoulders should be squeezed tightly back and positioned directly over the bar. Do not round the shoulders, as more force will then be applied to the back. Stand behind the bar, so that it is over the balls of your feet. Keep your feet shoulder width apart, pointing forwards or slightly outwards. Squat down and grasp the bar, hands slightly greater than shoulder width apart. Thighs should be approximately parallel to the ground, back straight, and eyes looking forward. Keeping the back rigid and arms straight, lift the bar using the legs, keeping the bar as close to the body as possible.

Balance exercises help you maintain strong core and leg muscles and prevent falls. The leg consists of multiple parts. The Quadriceps are the muscle group in the front of your thigh above the knee which is used to extend the knee, the hamstrings are a group of muscles in the back of your thigh, they do the opposite and flex or retract your knee. The calves are the group of muscles that are located on the lower leg in the back opposite side of the shin. They are used to extend your ankle or raise your heel if you are standing. All the leg muscles work together to create speed and movement. They work in conjunction with each other, for power, acceleration and speed. Every muscle is important. Do not just train one muscle group, train them all. Strong leg muscles, especially in the quadriceps, hamstring area, and calves, are essential in figure skating. Much of your power comes from your legs, and staying balance requires strong leg muscles as well.

If you want to increase your core and leg strength for better balance, your quads, hamstrings and abdominal are the muscles to concentrate on. Exercises such as the Russian Twist and sit-ups and crunches are good."The Plank" help[s strength the core; try to hold it for around 30 seconds at a time and increase as you get stronger. Things like leg raises also help. Keep in mind, maintaining a diet rich in protein and low in fat is important in any workout routine to enhance muscle growth and development, or you will get absolutely nowhere. Concentrate on overall fitness and maintaining a healthy regime.

Nothing beats healthy eating. Eat a combination of lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Spread your meals. Your metabolism is a machine continuously at work. It needs fuel. Eat smaller meals every few hours throughout the day to accelerate fat loss and to maintain stable energy levels. For best results, eat six smaller meals a day. Eat your protein, lean chicken, fish, egg-whites and beans. Consume as much fruits and vegetables. Drink at least three quarts of water per day. SODA is your worst enemy, diet or not. As you do your reps, concentrate on total body strength with emphasis on core and leg strength.

It's Okay To Be Nervous

2008-06-12T06:57:00.007-05:00

Nerves are a great thing! It's good to be nervous prior to a performance. It shows that you care. Once you're on the ice however, the nerves will melt away. Take deep breaths to calm yourself down. Many of the elite skaters, for instance Sasha Cohen and others, take deep breaths prior to their program. Breathing is important

Don’t allow your nerves to take over your performance. You can often tell when someone is nervous if they are making small useless movements such as tapping their fingers, feet, fidgeting, shifting around in their seat, or larger things such as pacing. Restlessness in general is a very big sign. I’ve seen many skaters, while waiting for their turn backstage, exhibit this behavior. You need to focus on you, not your opponent.

One of the internal signs of being nervous is: increased heart-rate, sweating, headache or other body aches. Shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, or in some extreme cases panic attack may occur. When you have a schedule test or competition, the most important thing is to relax.

Being nervous is not a bad thing. It is your mind telling you that you care about the action you are undertaking; your performance is important. You feel a huge sense of responsibility to give your audience the best possible performance you can possibly give. Allow this energy to work for you, not against you. Those little butterflies in your stomach are your friends.

It’s okay to have butterflies. You don’t want to become complaisant, or take your performance for granted. However, it is very important that you stay confident relax and in control. Remember, fun is the name of the game in skating. Go out there and enjoy yourself; have fun! If you recall the 2002 winter games, Kwan had appeared to be the sure winner, apparently, nerves got in the way of the prize. However, Sarah had allowed herself to have fun, hence, had won the prize.

A great way that I have learned to stay confident is to have run-through of my program as many time as I can. Let your program become an extension of you. Practice... Practice... Try listening to your music over and over, and imagine each element corresponding to each beat . Another thing that might help is by not focusing on any outside “noise”. While the audience appreciation may be helpful, it can be detrimental as well. Feel to express yourself, be in the moment. Don’t be intimidated by the crowd. The audience is there to watch you. The audience is your friend. Just remember the judges are doing their job. Their objective is not to judge you; they are only judging your performance. Use their criticisms constructively.

I would recommend focusing on your performance as opposed to the score. Concentrating on the mechanics or over thinking too much can create unwanted anxiety. Don’t focus on mistakes. Just do your program. Once an error is committed, you cannot erase it; just focus on your next element. The elite skaters don't spend all of their time focusing on mistake, they move on and make sure the rest of their performance is their best. Try some deep breathing and thinking of this as just performing with your coach. Go about it the same way you do during practice. Give it your all!

This being said, allow yourself the freedom to enjoy the moment, the skating, something you love and enjoy doing. Don’t worry about the mechanics. Block negative thoughts from your mind, allow yourself to be your best and don’t worry about the competing, against anyone. The only person to concur is yourself. Keep in mind your opponents are just as nervous , if not more. Focus on “you”.

Try the following:

1. Don't eat too heavily.
2. Don't drink caffeine or sugar, just as it will tense you up, and give you more jitters. Get a good night sleep the night prior to your performance.
3. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water, not sport drinks.

The Axel: The Most Difficult Jump

2008-06-12T04:56:00.004-05:00

The Axel is a jump in figure skating, named after the Norwegian skater Axel Paulsen (1855-1938) who was the first to perform this feat in 1882. A single Axel consists of 1 and a half rotations in the air. For a jump with counterclockwise rotation, it has a takeoff from the left forward outside edge and a landing on the right back outside edge; this can be reversed for a clockwise jump. The Axel can also be done as a double jump with two and a half rotations, or as a triple with three and a half rotations. While quad jumps are popular among some of the male skaters, Miki Ando is the only female skater who has landed a quad jump during practice.

In order to perform an Axel, the skater typically approaches the jump on a right back outside edge in a strongly held check position before stepping onto a left forward outside edge. The skater vaults over the toe pick of the left skate and springs up into the jump with the right leg. Then the skater brings the left leg through to cross in front of the right in what is known as a back spin position, to bring the center of rotation around the right side of the body; this is often described as a weight shift in the air. When the skater makes a mistake in the timing of the jump such that the blade does not grip or slips completely off the edge, this often result in a fall.

The Axel is considered one of the hardest jumps because it requires tremendous strength and the ability to rotate quickly. Computerized studies of skaters performing double and triple Axels have shown that skaters typically do not achieve quite as much height on the triple Axel as they do on the double. This may seem counterintuitive, since a higher jump ought to give a skater more time to complete the rotation in the air. Often, while executing the triple Axel, the skater does not take such a big "step up" in order to pull in to the rotation position as quickly

People are built differently. Different sized skaters would need different approach velocities to complete three axial revolutions. It has to do with the radius of one’s widest part; the stomach area. The governing equation here is the angular acceleration, which is proportional to the inverse of the radius of revolution.
Set the stage. Make sure that your pre-stage is correct. The pre-stage is where you do an angular slide, and then do the preparation spins just before you do that Axel jump.

Make sure you feel that edge as you prepare for the jump. If you don't feel your edge, you won't feel as confident on landing on the correct edge and the whole jump will suffer. You may even fall. It is afterall an edge jump. You need to control the speed of the spin, accelerate on the preparation spins moderately, and accelerate the spins very fully as soon as you takeoff to do the three revolutions, and then, with strong control, decelerate the spin speed on your landing so you don't "overrotate" , or make a two-footed landing.

Canadian skater Vern Taylor was the first to land a triple Axel in competition at the 1978 World Figure Skating Championships. It has since become a standard jump for male competitors as well. The first women to land the jump in competition were Midori Ito (1989 World Figure Skating Championship) and Tonya Harding (1991 U.S. Figure Skating Championships). Yukari Nakano landed a triple Axel at Skate America in October 2002. Kimmie Meissner landed a triple Axel at the 2005 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and Mao Asada became the first female skater to land two triple Axels in the same program at the 2005 Japanese Championships.

American pair skaters Rena Inoue and John Baldwin, Jr. became the first pair to perform a throw triple Axel in competition at the 2006 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and then they executed the jump at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Keep in mind, the most important part of the jump is having exactly the right entry. The right entry has a slight hook and no skid.

Forward And Backward Glides

2008-06-11T17:27:00.002-05:00

The biggest mistake new skaters make on the back outside edges is in trying to get in that extra push they think is necessary before lifting the free foot. It is a very bad habit. Do some lemons or stroking to get up speed, then put your feet together, bend your knees, shift your weight to one foot and lift the free leg off the ice. The foot will come up along with the knee. Do not try to stroke or to swizzle.

Gliding backwards and lifting one foot is generally done with the toes pointed in and the heels turned out. Your body weight must be balanced forward over the ball of the foot as you skate backwards. You must maintain your balance. If you lean too far back, you may fall as a result, and if you lean too far forward, you won’t move. Don’t lean on your ankles. Leaning your ankles will diminish your leg power. Remember to bend your knees, especially when they are at the farthest spread of the lemon. You're using the inside edge of your blade to generate power.
Forward gliding requires that you lift off the free foot off the ice while the weight shifts over on the other foot. You must press against the ice and push with the entire blade while your weight transfers to the other foot as the body glides forward on one foot.

The way you shift your weight is to move your hips and your center of gravity from your left leg to your right and back again. Moving your hips is really helpful in getting started going backwards and then as you pick up speed, you don't need to do it as much.

Trust your blades! You may feel as if you are going to fall off them. If your blades are not blunt, you won't. Sit back slightly as if you are going to do a backward cross over, and let the momentum of your free leg pull you round. The bigger push you get from the center point the easier it is. Try to obtain some speed. The faster you go, the easier the element.

When you push inwards, it's more of a feeling of pulling your legs in together. If you do it right, you will feel that you are using the muscles in your inner thighs. Backward glides start when the inside edge of each foot is pressed pushing the feet back and out to the side until they are parallel and a tad more than shoulder width apart. As the knee straighten, it begins to pull the feet back side by side.

Do not lean on your heels. That is not helpful. Try to balance your weight when you are executing the move. Some leg exercises will help if you lack leg strength. A stronger core and a strong lower body are essential in maintaining good balance.

Use this as a guide:

1) Put your weight on your left foot and extend your right leg out slightly. Keep your knees and ankles bent to carry your weight.

2) With your right leg sweep it back in an arc ) shaped like this.

3) This should start you moving backwards.

4) Immediately switch your weight over to your right leg and use your left leg to make a backwards arcing sweep. Have your chin above the skating knee, so your weight is centered.

Skating Injuries: The Ever Inevitable Concern

2008-05-31T15:41:00.004-05:00

Figure skating accidents, while infrequent, are among the most memorable. Figure Skating can be potentially dangerous, just like anything else. Injuries can happen to the feet, ankles, heels, knees, shins, quads, back, hips, groin area, shoulders, arms, wrists, and head, basically anywhere. Common injuries include bruises, cuts, sprains, strains, muscle tears, tendinitis, joint injuries, sometimes fractures or even a concussion.

Some ways to prevent injuries are as follows:

*Warm up - jog in place and then do stretches. It'd be better if you did that daily instead of just when you go skating.
*Stay warm.
*Don't wear tight clothing that can restrict your movement or loose clothing that can get caught on the blades.
*Make sure you have good equipment, skates that fit and that contains good padding. Make sure the laces aren't dangling on the ice. It can make you trip.
*Learn how to fall.
*Follow rink rules. The rules are there for your safety.
*Don't try "tricks" that are way beyond your level, or dangerous.
*Don't skate when you're sick too tired.

Figure skating accidents, while infrequent, are among the most memorable.It is hard to actually count how many ice skating injuries that have occurred. However, there have been some serious ones that are worth mentioning. To name a few, some of the most serious injuries I can think of would be the one involving one of the pair skating team Tatiana Totmianina and her skating partner Maxim Marinin. In November 2004, during the free skate of Skate America in Pittsburgh, Marinin lost his balance while attempting a difficult lasso lift and Tatiana slammed to the ice head first. She had suffered a concussion, and spent the night in a local hospital. Totmianina recovered from her injuries rapidly and was able to return to the ice within days. She often stated that she has no memory of the incident and this made it easy for her to return to the ice. Marinin, however, had to start seeing a sport psychologist to overcome his fears. According to them, Marinin's fears were so great that it was nearly impossible for them to continue skating.

Another one was during the ‘06 Olympics when Dan Zhang had sustained a fall during their free skate. She was very brave but obviously in pain. She and her partner were able to finish their routine en route to claiming the silver medal.

Jessica Dube underwent surgery to repair a laceration on her left cheek and nose after being hit by partner Bryce Davison's skate in the free skate competition at Four Continents during the 07/08 season. They were doing a rotation of a side-by-side camel, where one leg is parallel to the ice as they spin. You can hurt any part of your body during practice.

While some injuries are unavoidable, there are some injuries that can be prevented. You might experience fewer injuries if you do off-ice training. Your trainer can help you work up a stretching routine to keep your muscles limber. Warm up off the ice each and every time before you get on the ice and afterwards. Eat a healthy diet that promotes stronger bones and muscles. Be sure you get enough rest, being tired on the ice can cause lack of focus and may cause you to slip and fall as a result. With skating, falling is just inevitable, make sure you learn to fall in the safest way possible.

Do get over the fear of falling, or your progress may be impeded. Sometimes trying too hard to prevent injuries can actually cause injury because your body gets too tense. Relax when you skate. In most cases, you fall and then you get right back up again. Check with your doctor. Make sure you are ready to skate again. Go ahead and step out onto the ice. Take it slowly. It’s ok to be nervous - that's normal. Just stroke around the ice - there is no need to do more, at least not in that initial first session. You may feel a bit tense and nervous if you are new to skating however. The feeling will go away as you get reacquainted with the ice. Skate with your coach. Having a coach there with you on the ice gives you additional confidence.

What is pilates?

2008-05-26T10:59:00.005-05:00

Pilates is made up of great exercises that consist of stretching, and tightening up and toning the core muscles, or your "powerhouse" . With a healthy regime, and adding cardio exercise, you can lose weight; however, The focus of pilates is to strengthen your core.

Pilates benefits people of all ages, regardless of aptitudes and fitness levels. While Pilates help strengthen your core, it helps to condition the overall body with low-impact approach. As in anything you do in life, it requires patience and practice, but results will follow.

With time and dedication, Pilates practice can:

Improve strength, flexibility and balance.

Tone and build long, lean muscles without bulk.

Challenge deep abdominal muscles to support the core.

Engage the mind and enhance body awareness.

Condition efficient patterns of movement making the body less prone to injury.

Reduce stress, relieve tension, boost energy through deep stretching.

Restore postural alignment.

Create a stronger core.

Increase joint range of motion.

Improve circulation.

Heighten neuromuscular coordination.

Offer relief from back pain and joint stress.

Enhance mobility, agility and stamina.

Compliment sports training and develop functional fitness for daily life activity.

Improve the way your body looks and feels overall.

Pilates is not intense , it is a great exercise to complete in recovery mode or of you have injuries. It is not an ideal exercise for weight loss due to the fact that you don't burn as many calories however, it is great for increasing stamina and endurance and does promote healthy mind healthy body! Pilates is great if used with cardio abd a healthy diet, especially if weight loss is your main goal

Develop Superior Balance

2008-05-26T10:44:00.004-05:00

Any type of skating for instance, figure, roller, hockey, or speed skating has one thing in common. That is balance. There are several ways to improve your balance. Work on strengthening your core daily. Everything starts and ends there. Use the BOSU ball and whatever else you can find to make your core as strong as can be. You'll find that your balance will be a lot better.

With simple exercises such as crunches, would help target your abs. You can target your core, by doing the plank or the bridge exercise. This is done by supporting your body on your arms with a low center of gravity for as long as your body can sustain, it will help build your abdominal muscles. The most important aspect of balance is to have a strong core.

Work to develop superior balance by doing the following:

1) Improve your core strength. The absolute best way to improve your core strength is Pilates. You can generally find Pilates classes at your local gym, or through electronic methods in the privacy of your home, at any time, whenever you want; or you can higher a private coach. Another way you can improve core strength, is to do lots of crunches. As many as you can do in a day. Make sure to also work opposing muscles groups as to not aggravate your back in the process.

2) Ankles’ response to stimuli Another way is to improve your ankle's response to stimuli. In bare/sock feet, stand on one foot. At first, keep your foot raised beside your leg and your arms out. Feel your ankle adjusting to your balance. Try to hold this position for at least three minutes or more if you can. Then, put your arms down. You can also move your raised foot either in front or behind you. For the toughest exercise of this sort, close your eyes; the idea is to allow your body to adjust to minute changes in your balance which strengthens the ankle. Walking one foot in front of the other on a straight line, or using a balance ball as you sit on the floor with one leg on the floor and the other leg stretched out on top of a ball as you contract your abdominal muscles will improve your balance as well. Learning to balance will not be a quick fix. It will take time, dedication, and patience. You may also consider yoga and/or a personal trainers.

Yoga and ballet, will not only improve your balance, it helps to improve your posture as well as help with you to become graceful. For a competitive skater, adding daily stretching for about one to 1and a half hours really helps, consistency is the key. Don't stretch too vigorously at first.

Try the following exercises to improve your balance as well as flexibility

Touch your toes while standing.

Reach for your toes while sitting,
Straddle stretch: legs are split sideways, and you stretch for each leg one at a time,

Work out using the treadmill, do sit ups, push ups, jumping jacks, jump rope regularly.

When you first learn to figure skate, it is hard but as you get more balanced it gets easier.Most skaters have a 'strong' and a 'weak' side to their skating. It takes practice and hard work to balance, make each side equally strong by continuously practice on both sides. Be sure to keep your knees bent and your arms at waist height and out from your body for balance. Many times new skaters bend one knee deeply but stiffen the other leg. Use good posture, arch your back, and extend the free leg behind you after you push.

Start by doing lots and lots of releves to build up your leg muscles. With stronger leg/calf muscles, come stronger ankles as this is where most of your strength and balance will come. Remember to practice balance on each foot. Do not neglect or favor one side. When you go on your toes, focus your weight to your big toes, lean forward about an inch until you feel balanced, find a spot on the wall to stare at, and keep your abdominal muscles as tight as you can.

Stretching: It is important to stretch your quads and hip flexor; stand up straight, bend your legs parallel to your butt, hold quad stretch and lean slightly forward. For your hamstrings sit on the ground with your legs straight, and try to touch your toes.

Leg abductors: Lay on an edge of the bed, couch, etc., with your butt facing the edge, shift top leg back slightly and have someone steady your hips and gently push down on your top leg. The area around your knee should feel the stretch in your hip and outer leg.

Calf stretch: Tibialis anterior stretches (shin): Point your toe on the floor, and stretch forward.

Additional exercises you can try are: Squats, lunges; hold dumbbells out in T formation, forcing your legs to balance side-to-side, as well as forward. Dead lifts would also be very useful with weighted crunches, and oblique crunches on both sides of the abdominal, as well as roman chair, and leg lifts for lower abdominal.

Increase Your Flexibilty

2008-05-24T09:16:00.010-05:00

Yoga can be a good way to increase your flexibility. If you want to increase flexibility, it will take time and patience. When you stretch, don’t bounce, get in your stretch and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds. Stretch when you wake up, bend down as far as possible touch your toes. If you feel tightness in your hamstrings, it's fine just don't over do it. Daily, work your way as far down as you can. Touch your toes with straight legs daily until you can get your palms flat on the floor, keep doing it otherwise the muscles will tighten again. A good stretch will hurt a little while it is happening! You will definitely increase your flexibility. It may take a while.

If you want to increase flexibility, it will take time and patience. The first thing to do is to look at yoga poses and adapt them to your routine. Start with stretching 5-10 minutes a day and build up to thirty minutes at least. Some really good stretches for the leg lift involve ballet stretches

Try these exercises, increasing them over a gradual amount of time- and keep up with it, if you don’t use it, you loose it.

Spread your legs a little less then shoulder width apart, keep your back as straight as possible, arms straight out above your head, then bring them to meet your toes, trying to not bend anything. if you cant reach, no worries. go as far as you can. but always push yourself a little. hold it there for 30 seconds, repeat. gradually up the amount of time you spend holding your toes until it doesn’t hurt at all and you could stand like that all day

Stand with a slight distance away from a wall. Look straight ahead, so your side is parallel to the wall. stick your leg closest to the wall straight out as much as possible so its resting against the wall, then try to lift it as high as possible, hold it there till you start feeling vibrations, build it up until your foot ends up above your head.

Sit down, legs straight out. Keep your back up straight, arms out, bring them to touch your toes again.

Sit with your rear-end firmly on the ground, spread legs as far apart as possible, then touch each toe separately as above.

For splits, stretch your legs before the splits and they will go farther. Hold each split for thirty seconds, and push yourself until you feel a slight strain. Once you have your splits, work on holding it longer until it becomes comfortable as you adjust to a more difficult pose. Once you have mastered the pose, try leaning forward a bit, or bending your back knee and pulling your foot up. This should increase your flexibility, and better your spirals.

Tuck in your pelvis, and keep your hips square.
Use your abdominal muscles and find a point of concentration.

If you want to become more flexible simply stretch as a daily exercise and over a period of time you’ll recognize that you can stretch to a further distance. When your more flexible you'll be able to avoid injuries . Being flexible increases you agility as to not being stiff. When you are flexible you can maintain good posture as well which can improve on your presence on the ice. Just stretch a lot and try different exercises to help:

There are several ways to improve your flexibility:

The ballet perspective to stretching:

When on releve, press the floor away from you and go all the way up on the ball of your foot. The weight should be on the first three toes. Turn out from your hips. Keep your shoulders down.

-Practice standing on releve
-Stand flat (non-releve) with one leg in passe (reverse legs)
-Stand in releve with one leg in passe (reverse legs)
-Stand flat (non-releve) with one leg in second (reverse legs)
-Stand in releve with one leg in second (reverse legs)
-Practice bringing one foot up from coupe to passe flat (non-releve) (reverse legs)
-Practice bringing one foot up from coupe to passe in releve (reverse legs)
-Do a plie, forced arch, releve combination, reverse

There are several types of stretches that you can practice, and it is important to know the types of stretches to perform:

Back:
Lie on the floor with you feet facing forward, flat on the ground, hip level apart, hands flat on the ground by your ears. Push up so your in a bridge position, hold for 10 counts.
Repeat with one arm on your stomach (right and left)
and with one leg up pointed towards the ceiling (right and left)
-Kneel down, hip length apart. Don't sit on your legs, keep your body up. Arms straight up over your head, shoulder length apart. Go back and try and touch your hands as close to the ground as possible.

Legs:
Sit with your legs turned out, toes pointed. Reach right for 10 counts, then center for 10 counts, then left for 10 counts. Then repeat.
-Practice the splits daily, right, left, straddle. You can use a mat or a pillow to propped one leg to give you an extra deep stretch.

Flexibility helps better prepared the muscles as you practice you elements on the ice; and helps prevent injuries. That is why it is important to stretch before and after any workout. The goal is to stretch slow and long, not short and fast. Don’t bounce when you stretch. Stretching on a regular will improve flexibility. Increasing your flexibility will help you jump better, and higher.

There are different types of stretches that you can practice, and it is important to know the types of stretches in order to choose the right type of stretch to perform.
Passive – usually performed when an outside force (rubber-like, or another force) applies stretch to a relaxed joint. The stretch must be performed slowly in order to prevent injuries.

Static – can be performed alone and refers to when a muscle is slowly lengthened to maximum, held for 15-30 seconds and repeated three to five times. Slowly and gradually maximize the stretch as the tension in the muscle begins to relax.
Recommended type of stretching. According to the literature, permanent lengthening is achieved when static stretching is performed gradually, at lower force and for longer duration while the core body temperature is elevated.

Ballistic – bouncing a stretch. This is more likely to initiate the stretch reflex, which is a nerve response that tells the muscle to contract if it is stretched beyond its limit. This is the point where injuries may occur. You must be careful as to not go beyond your maximum limitations and aggravate the muscle.

Warm up before any type of workout.

Dynamic or Functional – the ability to use a range of joint movement for a particular movement within sport or physical activity. These movements are performed either slowly or rapidly. Dynamic or Functional stretching is considered a type of ballistic stretch and caution should be used when performing this type of stretch. A warm-up is recommended before stretching and then progress to static stretching before attempting any dynamic type of stretching.

Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques-( contract/relax and contract/relax). For this type of stretching, it is important to know which muscle is being targeted. Put the targeted muscle on tension, then contract the targeted muscle during the stretch while relaxing the opposing muscle. The contraction does not have to be maximum, do what you can. Respect your limitations. Hold the contraction for a few seconds, move to the new point, and hold the stretch for 10 to 15 seconds and repeat the process. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching develops strength. Consult your coach in order to able to safely accomplish this type of stretching.

Breathing is important when flexing, breathe from your diaphragm, not your chest. Find a point of focus when doing any exercises, it will improve concentration. Practice will improve your flexibility, do at least half an hours every day, and after several repetitions you should already be doing much better- providing you change your routine as to not become stagnant with the same pattern.

If you want to increase flexibility, it will take time and patience. The first thing to do is look at yoga poses and adapt them. Start with stretching 5-10 minutes a day and build up to thirty minutes at least. Some really good stretches for the leg lift involve ballet stretches. Stretch daily, and go deep into your stretches, really work them. Everyday try to get lower and lower. Stretch responsibly. Respect your limitations. While it is okay to experience moderate discomfort when stretching, it should not be unbearable however.

Improve Your Balance To a Better Skate

2008-05-23T07:02:00.006-05:00

Do you feel that the people at the skating rink seem to have a much better balance than you? You are a fairly good skater, but you seem to be having some difficulties at staying balanced on the ice. You wonder if it is the boot they are wearing that might create such firm grips into the ice, and you are hoping to find any skates that will keep you better balanced. While if your blades are not well sharpened, you may drift on the ice, but balance in general depends a lot on your center of gravity.

The more you skate the better your balance. In time you will develop strong abs. These muscles are formed by just simply standing on the ice. You might not be aware of it but by just standing on the ice you are using your abs. But I would also recommend that you do yoga and pilates as off ice training for balance. Now you can use the new revolutionized Wii fit balance board; it is awesome. It features four main areas: yoga, strength training, aerobic exercise, balance training. It is not a replacement for off-ice training, however, it can be helpful.

To improve balance you need to work on your leg muscles and your core muscles the most, well any kind of stretches and also balance boards may be helpful; or you can put your back flat to the wall and go into a sitting position and then you make sure your legs are at a 90-degree angle. A weak lower body is equal to little or no balance on the ice. You will need to work on your arms and upper body as well. Find a point of focus. Concentrate on something in front of you; if you look at your feet, you tend to fall easier. When you glide, do not push off your toe pick, try and push off from the side of your skate. You won’t make a scratching sound and it will prevent you from catching your toe pick on the ice and falling. When you glide, you want to bend a lot into your knees and push off the ice hard with your edges.

Try these quick simple tests to establish how balance you are:

Put each sock completely on your foot while standing solely on the other.
If you have to move your grounded foot around or hop around to keep your balance, your balance is probably not up to the basics of a reasonable figure skater. Most figure skaters don’t need to move from the spot while on one leg.

Also, another test is to close your eyes and stand absolutely steady for a half minute; have someone tell you whether you swayed at all or whether you were still able to keep perfect balance. This will be worth knowing if you are a figure skater.

Balance has to do with your center of gravity. The lower your center of gravity is, the easier it is to balance. The shorter you are, the closer you are to the ice. Do you ever marvel at how can fall while skating and get up as if nothing happened and resume skating? The reason most adults are insecure on the ice is usually due to their distance away from the ice, especially if they are very tall. In order to build up muscle strength, it takes exercises and a lot of muscle memory. Bending your knees is the most important thing you will learn as a skater. When you are skating forward, it can help to think of pushing your feet right down into the ice, through the balls of your feet. That way, your weight stays over the right part of the blade constantly and you should feel a little more stable. Remember to keep your knees bent.

Try some off-ice exercises.

When you are at home just practice standing on one leg and bending it.

1. Stand on one foot with your other foot held up but not touching your leg, arms outstretched to the side as you would in skating, head held up. When you can do that for 30 seconds on each leg, repeat it with your eyes closed. If you have no problem with that, buy a wobble board, a half foam roller, a BOSU board, anything that makes balance harder as you practice your way to better balance.

2. Do basic core exercises - crunches for instance. A strong core makes balance easier.

If you choose to use weights, keep it light three or 5lb. weights will be fine if you are new at it. It's better to do more reps (15 - 20) with less weight than fewer reps with more weight. Talk to your coach or someone at the rink who specializes in off-ice training for additional assistance.
Before you go on the ice, it is important that you warm up first just basic jogging on the spot, or jump rope, You must definitely stretch before and after skating to avoid injuries.

Practice the following the following on ice exercises:

Balance:

Bend both your knees slightly when you skate - even if it's just gliding. Bending your knees will keep your feet/skates right under you. Keep your head up - don't look at the ice. Don't lean too much forward, in other words don't stick out your rear. Keep your arms out in front of you at 10:10 or 2:50 as on a clock, they are your balancing poles. The more you skate, the more balanced you'll get.

Accelerating:

Think of your blades as knives. Now when you're moving, the movement is not like trying to cut the ice, it is more like you're trying to scrape with it. You need to bend your knees and push to the side and back, at a slight angle with your blades with your inside edges. That is what propelling you to move forward. Remember to keep your knees bent always. To go faster, bend deeper and create harder, longer pushes for good control. You might get out of control and go faster than you intended. The crucial part of stroking is the push, though. You should push on an inside edge. You don't want to be pushing on your toe-pick.

Slowing down:

If you're really going too fast and you don't know what to do, just glide on 2 feet until you start slowing down keep your knees bent for balance. If you can, skate next to the boards and run your hand along the rails to help slow you down. In any case, keep your knees slightly bent . . . the tendency is to stand up straight when you feel like you are about to fall. This will actually make you fall. Keep those arms in control as in the clock position. Try not to flap your arms when you're about to fall. Learning to stop would be most helpful at this point.

Use your knees and ankles to accelerate. While gliding, have both knees and ankles slightly bent. Turn one foot out to push with the side of your blade and extend that leg -- straighten the leg that you are pushing with. Then bring your feet back together in with the knees and ankles slightly bent again. Then repeat the whole process by pushing with the opposite leg. Remember to use your knees and ankles. You accelerate by bending and extending your joints.

For stopping you are going to again use those knees and ankles to bend, but this time you will apply pressure to your feet as well. Slowly press your heels out so that your toes start to point toward each other. Keep applying pressure to your feet by bending your knees and ankles. This will result in what is called a "snowplow stop" one of the basic stops.

When you accelerate, make sure you bend your knees, and push off your blade. You need to stay really low on your knees and push off on each stroke. Start off slow, as you try to go faster. Speed comes with balance. Balance comes from being comfortable in your skates. Just take it slowly, and you will start feeling more comfortable in no time.

Wii Balance

2008-05-22T15:51:00.004-05:00

With Wii fit, you can play a video game and get a workout without it being a chore. I am passionate about figure skating. I workout on a regular basis. I've never been interested in playing a video game. But, once I got a taste of the Wii fit game; I was definitely impressed.

To improve balance you need to work on your leg muscles and your core muscles. Now you can use the new revolutionize Wii fit balance board; it is awesome. It features four main areas: yoga, strength training, aerobic exercise, balance training. It is not a replacement for off-ice training, however, it can be helpful.

The Wii fit is more than entertainment or a video game. I never would have thought that a video game, would be as beneficial as it is entertaining. This system, with motion-sensing controllers and play intended for a broad audience beyond hard-core gamers Wii Fit features four main areas: yoga, strength training, aerobic exercise, balance training. Wii Fit features a new accessory: a scalelike device you can stand on.

This is a great gaming system that might help improve your balance. It gets puts you right in the game. I love it! Once you see how fun it is you will become addicted as well. Boy, what an addiction, and one that is good for you and healthy as well. This is a great system for kids of all ages and adults! It is a revolutionized idea. Nintendo has found avoid and has filled it.

The youths of today don't even go outside to play anymore, they have become immersed in a world of video games! They live a sedentary life. They just want to sit around and play video games. Definitely the Wii fit is a phenomenal idea! Now I have this gut feeling that some people may assume that they don't need to pay for yoga sessions or any other fitness clubs. However the Wii fit is not a panacea, I still think some kind of additional fitness routine is required, unless you are the type who never did any type of activities, than the Wii fit is your answer.

I bought the Wii on launch day and so far, I am more than satisfied with it. The Nintendo Wii fit takes a different approach to gaming. Wii Fit is a good start for anyone embarking on a regular exercise program, but frankly, I'm finding some t of the routines are somewhat below the level I'm used to at least some, not all. For instance, I am a figure skater; I've been doing yoga, Pilates, aerobics and strength training regularly .

However, working out using the Wii Fit board is a totally unique experience, it provides instant feedback on your performance, as correcting your posture and charting your progress. It is as if having your private coach at your beckon call. It also offers a number of totally novel exercise games and routines to keep you interested and motivated.

Wii Fit is excellent for initiating a regular workout program, and for that purpose, I think it's well worth the money. Additional accessories may be required though. For instance the mat to keep the board secure on the floor, the rubber-like cover to protect the board from being scratched or getting dirty, and the battery charger for the balance board. I would encourage anyone who buys the Wii fit to obtain as extended warranty in case it becomes defected .

After playing for about an hour today, I was very sore. Even though I work out regularly, with the Wii fit, I still used muscles that were dormant. It is very user-friendly and walks you through all of the exercises. Another great feature, is that as you earn points, it allows the user to unlock different games as a reward. You have to work to do all the games and to unlock new ones. For example you can't unlock a balance game without working out with yoga. The Wii fit is highly recommended for figure skaters, or any athelete, the young and old alike, it is universal!

The Wii fit is a great start, and I sincerely hope Nintendo comes out with more advanced exercise games to use with the Wii Fit board--soon! More specialized game for specific interests; for instance, a figure skating version would be a great addition to the balance version of the Wii fit.

It is worth every penny. My Husband, my children and I have used the same day I bought it. We had so much fun. It measured our balance, BMI, and weight. We were able to set a fitness goal that meets our needs as well.

Get balanced!

Have fun!

Skaters Need Fuel: Don't Crash Your Diet

2008-05-18T07:39:00.004-05:00

In figure skating Image is everything. Many skaters are extremely concerned about their weight because appearance on the ice is important in the sport. Having a small shape is important in figure skating, breasts and hips slow the spins, lower the jumps and disrupt the lean body lines. The message is clear and all skaters know that you must be thin to win.

Your healthy weight is based on your Body Mass Index (BMI). Doctors often use BMI to determine if a person is underweight, at a healthy weight or is overweight. If you are above the healthy weight range, see your doctor to work out a program to help you reach a healthy weight. If you fall below the healthy weight range, or are losing weight unintentionally, consult your health care provider to make sure you don’t have any health problems.

For anyone who skates, weight is usually something they have on their mind. They are usually concerned about the right “weight” to be. While the focus should be eating right, and exercise, skaters or any athlete should keep in mind that it really depends on “your” body type. Some people are naturally more muscular than others and they have an easier time gaining muscle. Others can work out a ton and still have hard time gaining muscles. So it just depends on your body frame. You really shouldn't worry about this however.

Sometimes, your weight may fluctuate, and no matter how much you work out, you seem to be gaining weight. The answer to this could be that you probably are gaining a lot of muscles. Keep in mind that it is not fat. It is muscle. Whatever your size may be don’t beat yourself up for it; even as you may THINK it is fat, it is muscle. Muscles weigh more than fat. As long as you're healthy then keep working out and don't worry about your weight.

You can eat whatever you like with moderation, provided you exercise regularly and follow simple healthy eating habits. Focus on protein and fats-the best type of fats like olive oil avocado nuts, etc. Make getting lots of vegetables a priority. You need a variety of food: Potatoes, carrots, peas and carrots broccoli, green beans, peppers, tomatoes, asparagus, artichokes . . . Don’t take out any food group. As an athlete, you need carbohydrates, protein, and fats for energy, or you can forget about improving those skills on the ice.

For the adult skater, especially for women, choose items that don't make you want more and more food. For instance try to avoid refine foods. As for an older woman it is often harder to control weight. If you are over 30 and up starches and sugars are not your friends. It just makes you crave more as a result, you become less energetic and more likely to become obese and possibly diabetic as the fat stores in your mid-section.

If you're concerned about chubby areas, then you should definitely workout to tone those areas. However, keep in mind that working out in order to tone is very different from working out in order to lose weight. For example, if you already have a workout regimen intended to help you lose weight, here are a few alterations I would suggest that you tone your chubby areas with low weights, high rep. For instance, crunch for your abs, squats for your buns, lunges for your thighs and curls for your arms. Any serous skater has already implemented those routines as part of their off-ice training. You might gain a bit because muscle weighs more than fat; it is quite all right because then you'll be in the healthy weight range.

It is important that you stretch before, during, and after your workout. Stretching you muscles prevent pooling of bodily liquids and it also ensure that you don't develop "lumpy" muscles. The same way you stretch prior to getting on the ice, the same rule applies for any work out routine. People who don't stretch regularly find that they do not develop the smooth, attractive lean muscles they want.

Optimal weight is best achieved through the consumption of a low-fat, moderate-protein, high-complex-carbohydrate diet plus a good exercise and conditioning program. Skaters should eat and drink something, even a slice of toast and a small glass of juice is better than nothing, before taking to the ice to be certain that muscles are well fueled. The quick burst of muscular activity associated with the jumps required in figure skating is not possible without sufficient storage of fuel.

The Most Overdone Figure Skating Music.

2008-05-12T17:52:00.002-05:00

Choosing the right music is always a challenge for skaters and their coaches and choreographers. What suits one skater or pair or dance team may not suit another. It's a constant challenge figure skaters have -- picking music that fits their style, however also selecting something that the judges will like as well. Another challenge that exists in choosing a piece of music is that it fits the time constraints of a program and that technical elements can be performed to it. Figure skating music needs to incorporate quick beats, slow parts and some breathing time. The new judging system, with its intricate scoring, makes it even more difficult to fit skating to the music.

How often do you hear the first beats of music to a skating program and groan? Not "Carmen" again or, no more "Swan Lake. There should be a rule, that once a skater earns a title with a piece of music, that it shouldn't be played again for at least a couple of seasons. With that rule in place, we would not be subjected to hearing "Swan Lake" or "Carmen" or “Romeo and Juliet ever again; or at least for a while. New music can be exiting, but skaters, might find it to be a bit of a risk. It is understood if a skater doesn't want to take that risk, however skaters Should then go all out in their exhibitions and do something exciting.

There should be some middle ground between choosing an overdone piece of music and something totally unheard. I don't think skaters have to necessarily summarily dismiss music that has been used in the past, I just think they should think carefully before taking up something that's done over and over by multiple skaters unless they have a totally fresh idea for it.
Here is a list of music that should not be played anytime soon in a skating rink near you.
• "Carmen"
This is a classic skating piece because it naturally gets the crowd involved.
• "Bolero"
Kwan did a great number with that one. She is talented, it is expected.
• "Swan Lake"
It's been so overdone that Rudy Galindo performed both his short and long programs to this piece in 1996 Others have used it as well including: Baiul in 1994, Nancy Kerrigan, Shizuka Arakawa 2004, and Sasha Cohen even tried her hand with this one.
• "Romeo and Juliet"
Who hasn't tried this music? In the 2006 Olympics a commentator said that the difference between Sasha and other skaters is that they skate to Romeo and Juliet and Sasha becomes Juliet.
• "West Side Story"
Great music, however, absolutely everything, from "Maria" to "America," has been played one too many times.
• "Malaguena"
This is a great Spanish guitar piece, but should not be used unless the skater can truly keep up with the tempo and offer absolutely great footwork.
• "Nessun Dorma"
Again, beautiful music, from Puccini's "Turandot," but nonetheless, overdone by everyone from Sarah Hughes to Brian Boitano. It did not bode well with Meissner this season (2007/2008) This piece should be put to rest.
Some others:
The Feeling Begins
On the Waterfront
Swan Lake
Rachmaninov 2
Paint It Black
Moonlight Sonata
Zorba the Greek
Concerta for Coloratura.

And, there are pieces of music which have been overused at one time but are no longer overused--or used at all. The bell suite and love theme from Ice Castles was too popular in 1979-80, but might be a nostalgic piece now. There is also the option to use a lesser used bit of the score, as Kwan did with Carmen. The Rondo from the Moonlight Sonata isn't overused however. Look beyond the easily overused classics and the currently popular theme.

The Moonlight Sonata , Swanlake, and, any Tchaikovsky piece should take a back seat. Choose something different. The point is, people need to get original with their music. Debby Thomas of USA and Katarina Witt of Germany both skated to Carmen. They were known as the “Battle of the Carmen from the 1988 Winter Games. Carmen, swan lake, anything Beethoven, and Pirates of the Carribean are totally overused! The objective should be, to always look for more fun music. I think the judges would appreciate newly, exciting music.

There's some risk in choosing a classical piece of music. It will still have that edge of familiarity that will make the judges comfortable. But in choosing a classical piece that hasn't been used by numerous skaters before, you leave yourself more open to originality. There are pieces that aren't used as frequently in the skating world that would in no way be new to most of the judges.

A Balancing Act

2008-05-11T07:25:00.006-05:00

We All Fall Down

You are just beginning figure skating and are having trouble balancing on the ice during stroking both forward and backward. You are doing well with your crossovers; however as a result of your lack of balance, you feel as you may fall. And you are scared to dear life of falling. Balance is definitely the key word In skating. Stay focused.

Falling is a part of skating. If you don't fall, you're not trying. You have to get out of the fear of falling. It is not the end of the world. It is no big deal. If you don't fall, you're NOT trying hard enough! Just go for it and you'll get it eventually.

Don’t be afraid to fall; or be embarrassed for that matter. A figure skater falls, and you're going to fall. I haven’t met a single skater whose butt has not come in direct contact with the ice a few times myself included. I am an adult skater. All skaters fall. All skaters must fall in order to progress. Pilates and/or Yoga classes can be helpful in obtaining better balance. If you're afraid to fall, you're honestly not going to improve in a timely manner. Your fear will hinder your progress. Falling is one of the ways in which to improve muscle memory, and as you advanced t in skating, the more you fall. Crash pads can be one of the ways to go in order to absorb the impact of falling. It may add to your confidence on the ice.
Don't worry about falling! We all fall many times. When you are a figure skater, falling is something that is unavoidable. I have fallen many times. I wear knee pads and elbow pads. It helps a lot. If you're not falling, you're probably holding back, which won't allow you to improve on the jumps because you're stopping yourself holding yourself back. "Teach" yourself to fall. Tell yourself that it's okay to fall. It most likely won't hurt and it's the only way to push yourself forward.

Another important thing you must keep in mind is that most skaters have a 'strong' and a 'weak' side to their skating. It takes practice and hard work to balance them out and make each side equally strong. Sometimes, it's hard to practice your weak side during the public session. The traffic is too much, or you may have to abide to direction regulation or limited space on the ice. Try to find an uncrowded session to practice on in which you can concentrate on your skating skills! Making sure your skates are tied properly; and having sharped blades will help a lot.

When you practice elements on the circles, start and end with your weaker side so as to get twice as much practice on that side. It really does help! Skate on your strong side, and make mental notes about what you're doing. Then, step-by-step, repeat the action on your weaker side. Hold onto the wall if you have to, but really work hard to master the weaker side skills, especially the glides and pushes. Be sure to keep your knees bent and your arms at waist height and out from your body for balance. Use good posture, arch your back, and hold the free leg behind you after you push. Make sure that your arms are out, and that you have blades that are sharpened correctly. If your blades are blunt, you will travel across the ice. Remember to keep your arms are out nicely in order to be able to help stay balanced. Your skates need to be laced up correctly.

Don’t be embarrassed or afraid to fall . Everyone does. Kwan, Meissner, Cohen, Hughes (both), Weirs, Lysacek, . . . just to name a few, have had direct contact with the ice. I am not talking about their blades. You just have to stay positive and keep skating (or falling) as the elites skaters do.

E. Hughes: The Unsung Hero

2008-05-10T19:16:00.006-05:00

Emily Is True Class Act

I have just taken a look at the team envelope for the 2008/2009 season. While I was elated with the Kimmie’s team A assignment; even though she did not do well by “our” standard this season, however she did well enough to achieve Team A status. What really threw me on a tail spin was Emily’s assignment. Instead of her, Bebe Liang made the Team (A). While I understand the mechanics of the assignments, I feel some reparation could have bee made in this case.

Let me clarify that I am a fan of Bebe as well, and I think she is a great skater. Though I’ve yet to meet her, fellow skaters who have, have sung her praise. However, that is beside the point. It is obvious the reason that Emily did not make team A is due to the fact that she had not compete at Nationals nor worlds’, yada yada... however, she had a hip injury. Whatever happened to all of those loopholes skaters can use to circumvent those types of unforseen circumstances? Is this the dawn of an early retirement for Hughes?

As I perused the Team envelope, honestly, the only strong person standing there as far as I am concerned is Meissner. And NO! I am not looking at it through my “fan colored spectacles.” Nagasu must automatically make the team since she is the “champ”. Yes she is cute and all that, but there is no art to her skating. Meissner, on the other hand, despite her lack luster performance this season, had held her own, and had earned the spot. However when it comes to Liang and Hughes, it is quite a different story. Hughes should have been assigned if not to team A, at least to Team B assignment. And don’t get me started about Katrina Hacker, whom I thought had given a much more mature and more artistic performance than Zhang. I know Zhang reminds us a bit of Kwan. And, Kwan she is not. And, Zhang can grow on anyone, she is so cute and so sweet. Despite What they say about the new system being fair, the fact still remains, if your name is not well known, you can still be swept under the rug, and unless you make jumping and flopping around the ice your main focus you can kiss any title GOOD BYE! And this fact has led me to ponder “what will happen to those young girls’ hips by the time the reach the ripe age of 40.”

Anyway, back to the matter at hand. I remember, the 2006, 2007, season I had felt that regardless of that “chance” performance that Alissa Czisny had pulled that year, (She is a beautiful skater, extremely artistic on the ice.) I had felt strongly that Liang should have been the one to have gone to the World Championship. This season 2007/2008 after watching a pleasant almost flawless Katrina Hacker at four continents, her performance had forced me to rewind my Tivo and watch her performance at Nationals, ( hers and part of Kimmie’s performance only, my heart was hurting too much for Kimmie, I could not have witnessed such debacle. It hurt too much) I had made the decision to skip Nationals this season. It just was not fun. Call me a sore loser if you must. I was hard-pressed to conclude that maybe our team should have been Meissner, Wagner, and Hacker. I am most definitely sure she would not have disappointed US.

Benched

Now the Team envelope with Hughes being benched in Team C, is not helping our team as much. Has this scoring system done away with skating? She is very artistic and has one of the best choreographed programs. She had a hip injury, I am sure might have been due from executing an element on the ice, probably a jump. The new judging system really sucks! This judging system has divorced the casual viewer from what's happening on the ice. Now it is alienating athletes who display flow, finesse, and an effortless movement in time to the music. Hughes may not be flopping like a bird all over the ice; however, she skates with style and clarity. It's astounding that figure skating still maintains its self-image as an art form in the face of so much flopping. This is the beginning of the end.

Unsung Hero

Since the Olympics have ended I haven't seen nor heard much of Emily. Apparently, she will always be in the shadows when other skaters are talked about. Emily, not only has to deal with talk about her sister; but Michelle, Sasha and Kimmie as well to name a few skaters.

Amy Hughes was being commemorated as a top mom recently: She was referred to as “Amy Hughes, the mother of Olympic skating gold medalist Sarah Hughes.” There was no mention of Emily. Emily, titles or not is a quite accomplished young lady. So, shame on the press for not acknowledging her. Even if Emily were to win a medal which does not seem likely, since she is more artistic than a jumper, she is unlikely to get the type of coverage the other skaters get and everyone will be assuming it was mere chance. And now she has been assigned to Team C, what are her chances.

Emily definitely deserves a better assignment than the one she’s got. She might not have the “softness” that so many people love these days, but it's refreshing to see someone who is still powerful, with beautiful stretch and spins. Emily has risen to challenges and has showed her true spirits. That young lady is a true class act.

New Boots Issues

2008-05-09T07:19:00.002-05:00

Blisters From New Boots

You have just bought you new pair of figure skating boots and they are hurting a lot. Beside hurting a lot, one foot hurts more than the other. The first time you’ve used them, you’ve developed some major blisters. Five days later when you went back to the rink, apparently, it seems that more blisters are coming your way. You are wondering if this is normal. If this, is normal for breaking into new figure skates? And if so, how long does it take until the skates are broken into?

It takes about ten or so sessions for the skates to break in completely depending on the individual and the boots. It is totally normal. It happens to everyone. This time around though, I did not get blisters breaking in my boots, I have custom-made boots( Thank you Klingbeil). They are kinder to your feet. If you have to get stock boots, you can use a make up sponge around the part of the foot that feels uncomfortable. There are some popular brands that are adhesive, they cost a little more and are not reusable. The make up sponge creates the same effect. They are flat and round. Boys and girls can use them equally. We’re talking about comfort here. This not the time to worry about what your “macho, insecure pals” will think of you. Cut a small hole in the middle of the sponge and put and put it around the blister it helps.

Depending on the skates, It is VERY normal to get blisters when breaking in some new skates! Don't worry! If you're having problems around the ankle area, you can take your boots to a skate shop and ask them if they could "punch out" the ankles for you. They have a metal tool that they can use to squeeze and stretch the leather, creating additional room for your ankles. It'll take a little while before your skates feel comfortable. When you're starting with them, try not lacing them all the way up. If you're having problems with your ankle, leave the top eyelet unlaced until you feel more comfortable. Also try leaving the top hook undone until you feel more flexibility in your boots. Put on your skate guards and wear your skates around the house in order to help you with the break in process.

If the blisters are very uncomfortable, the best thing you could do, though it does not sound, is to stop skating for a week or so depending on how bad your blisters are. Wear flip flops as much as possible and put on some ointment to relax the blister. Also, if you can, go to a doctor because he or she may provide the best help and care possible for you to apply

Don’t worry! It is completely normal for you to be uncomfortable when adjusting to new boots. The most important thing is to take care of the problem. Put some ointment on your blister and wear flip flops as much as you can in order for the blisters to not get more irritated. Usually it will take a few sessions for your skates to break in. However, if you do not take care of your blisters, your feet will hurt additionally when you put your boots on and it might hinder you skating as you might have to take additional time off from skating in order for the blisters to heal.

Get better fitting skates

Each skater has a preference when it comes to boots. Personally, I find “custom” is the way to go. You are fitted for those boots. They are made for “you.” Yes! there is a breaking process. However, it is not as long nor is it as painful. Just make sure that your skates fit properly and you will be able to avoid such problems. Try getting your boots custom made if you can afford it.

Skate Guards Vs: Soakers

2008-05-08T14:48:00.004-05:00

You just got your new skates, and they come with blade covers. The covers are very slim plastic ones. You are wondering if it is okay to use those guards instead of the other lager skate guards.
And you are wondering if you should get soakers as well, because a blade cover is a blade cover right? You know you're supposed to have them, but it should be okay to just dry the whole blade then put those hard blade covers on.

Soakers Vs. Skate Guards

It is imperative to keep your skates, and especially the blades, as dry as possible. Every time you take your skates off, you should dry them thoroughly with a towel. Then put on a pair of terrycloth soakers. Soakers absorb any water you missed and keep the blades dry between uses.

Soakers are what you put on your blades after you skate to protect them from rusting . Skate guards are for walking around in the skates on and off the ice.

You certainly need soakers. They are definitely a necessity when it comes to caring for your skates. They help prevent rusting and make your blades last longer. Soakers are the best for skate care. Once you take your skates off, dry them very well with an absorbent cloth. DO NOT put your guards back on, wait until your blades adjust to room temperature and then dry them off again. Because the blades are made of metal, they stay cold for a long time. As the shock of warm air hits the blades, they heat up quickly causing the metal to condense or "sweat,” the soakers absorb the water trapped from the blades. By putting the guards on when they’re still cold, this may cause a harmful rust to form on the blades. Soakers eliminate the hassles of continuous drying. They are innovative.

Any guards should fine. Personally, I prefer the heavy duty kind; however, it’s highly likely that the floors at your rink are lined with a hard rubber coating so there really is no need for heavy-duty guards for walking around right now. It is a matter of preference.

NEVER put hard guards on your skates while they are not being used, they will rust. This will ruin your blades and forces you to get your skates sharpened more often than you need to. The more you sharpen your blades, they don’t last as long. Hard guards are for when you are not skating and you're walking around the rink, or a hard surface.

The plastic blade covers are OK when for walking around in the skates on and off the ice, but the soakers hold the water in them as they need time to dry out. The skate guards shouldn't be on the blades all of the time because the hard plastic covers will promote rusting even if you think your skates and covers are dry.

Your First Figure Skating Boots

2008-05-04T10:45:00.005-05:00

You are a beginner but a very fast learner. You are not sure if you should buy figure skates at this time. However you feel you are progressing fairly quickly. You have made it to freestyle levels. Now the big question is should you stop renting and buy your own pair of figure skates.

If you enjoy figure skating, then you should own your skates no matter what level you are. This is because you progress much faster with your own boots and you'll probably enjoy skating even more. Rinks usually don't sharpen their skates as often as they should. It might cost more to begin with to have your own skates, but you won't have to keep paying for rentals, you'll have your own skates that won't smell like other people's feet and if you get the right model, they should last you through all of group lessons. The questions below may be of concerned to you:

1. What's the best kind of ice skate to get?
2. What size do I get?
3. Do I need a figure skating bag to carry my skates in? Or Is it okay to fling my skates over my shoulders when I go to the rink?
4. Do I need to get soakers ?
5. How long will it take me to break into them?
6. When do I know to sharpen them?
7. How do I care for my ice skate?

GETTING YOUR SKATES

Usually for beginning skaters, I recommend an introductory pair of boots for beginners. The boots should be comfortable, and have all of the requirements of a beginning skate. Any brand would do. It is a matter of preference. They should provide enough support and come with some decent blades for what you're trying to do. Go to your nearest skate shop and tell them at what level you are skating and what you want to do. They can fit you and set you up with a skate for your level.

SIZING

For sizing purposes, you should go to your nearest skate shop and get professionally fitted. Skates do not run true to shoe sizes. Some run large, some small, some are wide, some are narrow. It all depends on the brand. A trained professional should be able to help you get the appropriate size. You'd hate to get your new skates and have them not fit! If your feet are still growing, you can usually go up a half-size, or maybe a full size. More than that might make the experience a difficult one. Also, some shops sell used skates as well, which can be a great idea for skaters with growing feet! However, it is usually best to break into your own skates.

THE BREAK-IN PROCESS

Break-in time depends on how much you skate. At first you will have trouble skating and won't be able to do everything that you thought you could. You will probably get some blisters. Persevere. Those are the “breaks” of having your own figure skates. Usually to facilitate this process, it is a good idea for skaters to wear their skates at home while watching TV with their skate-guards on. This allows the boot to form to your feet. Walk in them a little at home, bend at the ankle. When they're new, don't lace them up all the way to the top. Leave the top hook unlaced until you have them broken in a little until you feel comfortable in your boots. On the ice, do a lot of back crossovers, swizzles, (waltz jumps if you can) and bend at your ankles. If you're finding you have specific areas that are hurting, you can have those areas "punched " at the skate shop they have a metal tool that pushes areas of the boot out to relieve pressure areas. Sometimes, round makeup sponges work well to protect sore ankles and other areas that hurt in skates.

SHARPENING YOUR BLADES

Get your blades sharpened before you use your skates for the first time. New blades do not come with good edges. How often you sharpened your skates depends on how much you skate. The general rule is whenever you find yourself drifting off the ice. You will notice it on the ice when you need to sharpen your blades. When they start to get blunt, you will feel yourself drift side ways on your blades across the ice. When this starts to happen, it means your blades are getting blunt because the edges are getting rounder. However each skater has their own preference. To check if your blades are dull, drag a fingernail lightly over one of the edges. If it scrapes off some of your nail, they're probably okay if there is no scraping, they need to be sharpened. Your coach should also be able to let you know, or the shop where you sharpen your skates should be able to tell you as well. For every time you sharpen your blades, you are taking off a piece of your blades. Sometimes your skates may not need sharpening the person at your shop knows just what to do to hold you ‘till your next sharpening

CARING FOR YOUR BLADES

I would recommend getting a pair of soakers to protect your blades. They're great for when you're not using your skates. They help keep your blades from getting rusty. Be sure that you do not store your skates with the hard skates-guards on. This can cause your blades to rust . . . quickly! Only use the skate-guards for walking off ice to protect your blades from getting ruined. When you're done skating, wipe your blades and boots down with a towel and put on your soakers. Once you get home, it is always a good idea to take your skates out of your skate bag, take your soakers off and let your skates dry out. This prevents rusting on your blades, and allows the moisture to evaporate. I'd suggest getting some sort of bag, backpack or a skate bag something to carry your skates in. Skaters seem to end up with a lot of junk to carry around: CD's, towels, gloves, leg-warmers, guards, extra tights, facial tissue, first aid kit and much more.

CARING FOR YOUR SKATES

A. always wipe your blades thoroughly so they don’t rust.
B. if your doing a lot of drags and stuff, you should think about wearing over the boot stockings or skate covers so you don’t ruin the leather of your boot as it scrapes off.
C. wear guards when your not on the ice so your blades don’t get blunt.

There is a big difference between owning your own boots and renting. They will probably feel like night and day when compared to rental skates. You will have the ankle support and a better blade that you will need for beginning spins and jumps.

Blades And Slippers

2008-05-02T20:42:00.005-05:00

Many figure skating moves and techniques are based on ballet. Skaters who have a background in ballet should be able to transfer the positions and principles from ballet to skating. It is precisely this closeness to dance, and especially to ballet, that sets ice skating apart from any other sport. Although ballet and skating are similar, you have to think of them as two different worlds. There are many moves in skating that are similar to ballet, but you will have to break some ballet rules to get it right in skating.

The skater needs a strong core body to connect the upper and lower body for controlled powerful movements. He must be able to keep his shoulders over his hips throughout jumps, spins, footwork and edges. He must also be able to check his shoulders against his hips. Thus it is to the skater’s benefit to become aware of the feeling of twisting in the middle of the torso, and also the feeling of staying square.

Figure skating and ballet require balance, strength in the legs, and ankle strength. They both use the same muscles, so ballet really helps figure skaters. Flexibility, balance, body alignment/posture, extension, and strength are just another reason to incorporate ballet to your figure skating. Many of the poses in skating are found in ballet, for instance arabesque, leaps, Rond de Jambe, Plié, etc. Ballet teaches the skater how to move the pelvis without losing balance or disconnecting the center in footwork sequences, including pirouette turns, jumps and leaps across the floor.

The entire foundation of ballet is poise and posture gained through core strength, making it the best way to learn how to present oneself and become graceful and elegant on the ice. Ballet helps with beauty and grace. Ballet dancers have a natural elegance in the way they carry themselves. The way their legs, back, arms, hands, feet, shoulders, and neck are aligned, always seems to have that flair grace. They have great posture.

Figure skating is ballet on ice. It can be one of the off ice training you implement to your skating for form and balance. Ballet uses body, mind and expression and while on the ice you have to express yourself as well. With ballet, you have a broader sense of how to perform, and to interpret and express your music as you tell your story or convey your emotion through the connecting steps of the program. This is what make the difference between a program that is all jumps with a lot of crossovers or stroking between the jumps, and a program that is interesting, artistic and pleasant to watch. Just as a dancer sweeps you away with her grace and flow and hides her/his sweat with a flourish, a skater will prepare you for a delicate show of athleticism and artistry, and gentle arabesques, and they’ll soar and spin in toe loops and flips and triple-Axel jumps.

The following is a brief summary of common terms and positions with which skaters should be familiar.

Rond de Jambe – A rotary movement of the leg.
It can be done in a number of ways, such as on the
floor with knee straight, or in air with a circular
rotation of the knee from bent to straight.

Plié – A bending of the knees with hips, legs, and
feet turned outward.

Arabesque – A position in which the dancer
stands on one leg with the other leg extended in a
straight line to the rear. The position of the arms
and the height of the raised leg may vary.
There are certain set positions in ballet for the
arms and particularly for the feet which give the
ballet dancer a particularly pleasing aspect as well
as providing a starting point for particular moves
and interchanges.
Skaters who have a background in ballet
should be able to transfer the positions and
principles from ballet to skating.

Foot Positions
There are five basic ballet foot positions that
are common to all teaching methods.
The feet point either in opposing directions either
in a straight line, or offset with one foot in front of
the other.

Built Core Strength With Pilates

2008-05-02T07:49:00.004-05:00

Pilates uses the mind to control the muscles.The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles. Pilates improves your mental and physical well-being, increases flexibility, and strengthens core muscles. People who do pilates regularly feel they have better posture, are less prone to injury, and experience better overall health. If you want to work your body to the core, try Pilates

There are two forms of Pilates. They are: Mat-based and Equipment-based. Mat-based Pilates is a series of exercises performed on the floor using gravity and your own body weight to provide the resistance. The objective is to condition the deeper, supporting muscles of the body to improve posture, balance and coordination. Equipment-based Pilates – uses specific equipment such as the “Reformer,” which looks like a rowing machine that you push and pull along the floor. These classes can be easier for beginners because the machines support you when you do the movements.

There is a lot more to Pilates than just exercise. You have to have correct breathing, which is very important. Pilates helps develop your core strength, little bit complicated. You then have to learn to isolate certain muscle groups, for instance pelvic floor and the abdominal muscle. It took me a couple of months and two private sessions a week to learn how to do most of it correctly. Once you can stabilize the hips, back and abdomen only then can you move into the 'exercises'. However once you learn the correct techniques, it always comes back to you. It remains with you. It is like skating, or riding a bike. If you do not learn all this then the actual exercises will be all for nothing. You want quality, not quantity. And it can be dangerous as well, and you can do yourself more harm than good.

I started Pilates and yoga for balance, flexibility, and core strength to help me with figure skating. I do have to say the overall result is great; including health-wise. You don’t need to spend “mega” bucks on equipments for Pilates; I do recommend the mat and the ball. The ball gets deflated for easy storage. There is plenty of information available for anyone interested, but I do advise investing in an introductory class, for proper guidance and proper form. Those are of extreme importance. It is a worthwhile investment. Once the theory is grasped, the rest is really up to you. Not much equipment is required. You actually have to use your own body weight to build muscle mass.

Pilates is designed to combine your breathing rhythm with your body movements. It relies on a variety of special body movements which strengthen, and tone the various muscle groups of the body. It is a series of controlled movements engaging your body and mind, promoting physical harmony and balance for people of all ages and physical conditions. Don’t expect to see immediate results. It will take a few weeks before you’ll see changes in your body. Combine your sessions with some heart-pumping activities and Pilates can help you achieve total body fitness – endurance, flexibility, strength, and balance. Proper breathing is important as well as posture. It is very important to do Pilates using the proper form, because if you do it wrong, it will be self defeating.

Which Coach Will It Be Kimmie

2008-05-01T16:50:00.004-05:00

Meissner should continue her partnership with Callaghan and thank Pam Gregory for all of the help she has given her to get her to this point. “Though it was a difficult decision... , Meissner should say but she “felt it was necessary to gain fresh input and bring a new perspective to her skating. Never would she have achieved her current level of success without her, and for that she is very grateful. She’d appreciated her friendship and guidance over the past years and forever she will have a place in her heart. She is a remarkable coach, and she has a great admiration for her.” I am sure she does. I can see that they have a good rapport. It is now time to move on.

Kimmie. Meissner has dropped her longtime coach in favor of Callaghan whom she had hoped would provide a quick fix after a rough Grand prix which she had fell three times and ended last at that event in December. Then, trying to defend her national title, she fell three times and finished seventh. Since Richard Callaghan had apparently done some damage control, The obvious choice would have to be Richard Callaghan, the man who rebuilt Meissner's confidence and performance level to something resembling her former self at Worlds. However, to this day she has yet to make a decision. And her fans are waiting.

According to the Baltimore sun, Meissner had indicated that she would enjoy that relationship, with Callaghan. It will be interesting to see what happens. Pam Gregory, the Professional Skaters Association 2006 Coach of the Year, had been Meissner's coach since 2003.Apparently, Callaghan who has guided skaters to Olympic, world and national titles, appears as though he'd like to go to the Olympics again. His interviews imply his interests. As far as Kimmie goes I hope she goes down south and skates there. She needs the change. I definitely saw a difference in her skating at Worlds. Her confidence was back; she was definitely a new woman. The move seemed to have worked during the short program, Meissner appeared to enjoy herself and showed none of the timidity that marred earlier performances. I hope she continues to work with Callaghan and her new coaches. It seems to have helped her.

Meissner, too, was under pressure to prove that her disastrous season was behind her.
She has already gone to the self evaluation and has analyzed that her skating, based on the current scoring system needed some tweaking, she then found the person known for improving her technical skills. She found a “jump doctor.” The summers, the off, season in which the skaters train, may prove beneficial.

When someone starts skating at five or six years of age, the odds that the coach they choose will be able to see them through an entire career, let alone at the elite level, are slim to none. Undoubtedly this is a hard decision for Kimmie and the fact remains she has to leave the nest. One of the things that moving will help her do is to sell her maturity. Kimmie needs to show off her maturity, grace and professionalism. She is a great skater but she now needs to realize her skating has changed and she needs to market the change. She should not even make an attempt to compete with the kiddies. She should display her maturity, her flair, her experience. She is a seasoned skater. She is in a different class. Let the jumping bean aspire to her level. She is in a different realm.

As a figure skater myself, after years of observing what goes on in the rink, the jury is still out as to how much a coach can do for a skater. I find my own success or failure is mainly due to my own mind- set and how seriously I practice. I am not an elite skater. However a coach’s technique can either make you or break you. There is the notion of one outgrowing his/her coach. I had to part with my coach of two years. It may not seem long. However, a bond was created. In the end, the change was necessary. As for Kimmie - I don't think she has much to lose by trying a new coach. Things couldn't get much worse than they already are. While Kimmie is the one putting in the work, we can’t over look Callaghan recent handy work with Meissner however. In addition to Lipinski and Eldredge, Callaghan also guided Nicole Bobek to her 1995 U.S. title and for a time coached Shizuka Arakawa, who later earned the gold medal at the 2006 Olympics.

The Thrill Of Competition

2008-04-27T09:39:00.004-05:00

Everyone is a winner

Competition is human nature. Even before our birth we competed along with other sperms to get first place into our mother’s ovary. So we all won a great competition even prior to our birth. Everyone is a winner. However, as we grow older, we become insecure, we lose that confidence. Competition is one of the best ways to identify the talent, innovation and growth within us. Everything is in the mind and that assumptions, biases, and fear can cloud the mind from everyone’s true potential. We get caught up in “WINNING” or beating our opponent; when in reality “we” are our most fearsome competitor .Winning means overpowering someone else. If “we” don’t win, “we” are a loser.

Competition can lead not to dangerous action. Tonya Harding can no longer participate in any event sanctioned by the USFSA after admitting that she was aware of the plot to disable skating rival Nancy Kerrigan. She has denied being part of the plot. However, her ex-husband vehemently accounted that Tonya, his ex-wife was deeply involved in the conspiracy to injure the skater. Her actions as they related to the assault on Nancy Kerrigan show a clear disregard for fairness, good sportsmanship and ethical behavior. When it was all over, the USFSA strips Tonya Harding of her 1994 national championship and bans her from the organization for life. As a result, she will never be unable to participate in any amateur, pro-am or professional events sanctioned by the USFSA. She also will never be allowed to become a sanctioned coach. Now one would ask “Was this necessary for someone as talented as Tonya to allow greed to get the better of her as to go as far as inflicting harm on someone else just for the sake of “winning?”

Most people play a sport for the thrill of having fun with others who share the same interest. The effects of competition permeate the sport and every part of life. There can be tons of pressure in sports. A lot of the time it comes from the feeling that a parent or coach or fans expect you to always win or the worst thing of all low self esteem when it comes from inside. The pressure to win can sometimes stress you to the point where you just don't know how to have fun anymore. Perhaps it could even be the reason why you haven't been yourself.

Surya Bonaly is known for her backflip and is considered the only skater in the world capable of this move. Bonaly can be just defiant as she is famous. Her saucy attitude during number of competitions that did not go her way reveal the reaction of one being too caught up in the “thrill of competition.” This attitude was on display during the 1994 World Figure Skating Championships in Chiba, Japan. Nancy Kerrigan, Oksana Baiul and Lu Chen out of the competition, it was an open field for the championship. Bonaly skated a clean performance however, but the judges did not feel that way. The prize went to home country favorite Yuka Sato . They feel that she skated a better program. Bonaly felt she was robbed and defiantly stood aside the medals’ platform rather than on it.

Although she was coaxed into standing on the platform, Bonaly took off her silver medal after it was presented to her. The crowd did not appreciate her behavior, feeling that she was not showing good sportsmanship and was immediately booed. After the medal’s presentation it was obvious to reporters she was upset. According to Bonaly she was robbed of gold in 1993 as well, as she thought she should have beaten Oksana Baiul at that particular World Championship competition. Baiul narrowly won the world title. She was outjumped and outspun by Bonaly but had received higher artistic impression scores.

I was part of a platform in which anyone can put in their thoughts to questions asked, and as a result, your answers automatically earn points eventually they get voted best or the person who poses it declares which answer is best. The best answers receive a total of ten points. The platform being mentioned, I find, creates an internal contest. It was noticed answers that were answered correctly, and received votes were deleted for reasons that were not related to the cause. Upon careful perusal the conclusion was made that as points are accumulated, there is an ascending method; eventually the one with the most points ends up on a “pedestal” as the person with the most knowledge.

While some of the participants were just happy to share their knowledge, apparently, others had different objectives. By focusing on results, the objective became more with the ends–which are earning points than having fun in helping others and the sharing of knowledge.

Self esteem can play a big role on how we compete. Competition is a time in which we are testing your abilities and not our peers, and our friends’ opinions should no matter as much; however how we feel about your performance should have the greatest impact on the outcome. Competition is the core concept around which we thrive, and our securities or lack of it is built. While competition is good for self and self discipline, for adrenaline, for country, when the wrong technique is being use to achieve is when one should stop and have a self evaluation as to why “ I am really doing this” Once “we” get too caught up in competing outside of ourselves, wether it is academic or in sports that is when we will fail, for we cannot control our opponents.

NO! YOU ARE NOT TOO OLD

2008-03-25T13:56:00.004-05:00

Get Hooked On Figure Skating

You are never too old to figure skate, however if your thinking about making it to the Olympic games there may be some concern depending with the age in question. Skating can be a relaxing and an enjoyable pastime for young and old alike. However, the sport of figure skating involves a lot of stamina, flexibility and strength. If the aim is to compete at international or world standards then really the sooner you can get onto the ice the better. Then, stop commiserating about your age. Are you back from the rink yet? Figure skating is an enjoyable way to get fit and have a lot of fun as well. It is freedom. It is exciting. Anyone at any age can enjoy figure skating.

Even if you have not started young, don't despair! With determination, the right attitude and the will to succeed, anything is possible. If you would like to give figure skating a try, enrolling in group lessons would be a smart move. It’s great to get instant feed back. The best thing is to have fun and be safe.

Basic figure skating moves can be equally easy and difficult to master. There are off days as well as good ones. With lots of practice, it is possible to become quite accomplished. If you wish to learn figure skating at a competitive level then it is important that you get a coach that you can trust, one that you can work with.

I am telling you this once and for all: There is no such thing as too old for figure skating. Ninety percent of figure skating is passion and determination which translate in how much time you spend on the ice.

If you are continuously thinking about it, or finding ways to improve yourself, reading about it, watching the competition umpteenth time on your Tvo over and over thinking, watching so much, somehow, those elements will transmit into your body. If you find yourself wanting to be at the rink at every waking moment to practice, then you are NOT TOO OLD.

You need the right combinations: perseverance, determination, and passion, you will need those especially when you are having an off day. Those days do appear at times. That is when you will go home angry, and frustrated, because you were doing fine and all of a sudden there is a glitch.
However, the next day, you lace your skates up and back for more. SO NO ONE IS EVER TOO OLD FOR ANYTHING, especially if you have determination, desire, and passion.

The sense of achievement will give a tremendous boost to your ego. The main thing is to enjoy your moments on the ice. After all that is why you are there isn't it? I always believe that if you are doing something that you are truly enjoying then you are going to want to improve your skills to get the most out of it.

HEEEEEEEEERE IS JOHNNY...

2008-03-22T13:10:00.010-05:00

GIVE JOHNNY HIS “PROPS”

Apparently Johnny Weir has skated a flawless short program at the World Figure Skating Championships in Gotebord, Sweden, on Friday, while the past two title winners, Stephane Lambiel of Switzerland and Brian Joubert of France, fumbled or fell. Just when his fans thought he was exploited by the new scoring system, Johnny has produced an otherwise flawless routine to win the bronze, combining with Carriere tenth place finish, giving the US three spots to next year’s world’s championships.

Weir, the three-time U.S. champion, needed to be at his best to stay among the medal contenders Friday, that he did. He is a first rate, smooth extremely talented skater. His individuality and fearlessness are an inspiration. Johnny Weir is a wonderful skater and he will continue to improve Since Zmievskaya and Petrenko would not be baby-sitting him. He has proven himself to be, mature, gracious and a skater who can challenge on a world level. Johnny Weir likes controversy. He likes drama. He's never boring. However, this season, he seems different , he is more focused and consistent. The new coaching of Galina Zmievskaya, and Petrenko seem to have work wonders for Johnny.

Weir scored big wins at the Cup of China and Cup of Russia, defeating two-time world champion Stéphane Lambiel of Switzerland both times. He was magnificent at the U.S. nationals That being said, with the men the final event at World , Weir can finally get back his respect.

Johnny was phenomenal this year. He pursued his dream and proved that he has the talent and artistry to be a winner. He certainly has it to be the champion and is wonderful to watch as well. He is very artistic. Johnny Weir is infinitely interesting to watch..

Meanwhile, despite the change, some of the “old” johnny keep making a comeback. The quote bellow reinforces this view:
"As much as I would love to say that I think it's the most important thing for the U.S. to have three spots for men, it's not the most important thing for me. Even if we have one spot, as long as it's mine, I don't care," ..."(CAM COLE, Canwest News Service March 22, 2008 )
This is a free country. Everyone is entitled to his /her opinion; however the USFSA judging from the way Johnny has been treated does not seem to allow him this unalienable right. Apparently, they feel that Johnny should walk to their own drums. They probably hope that he grows up a bit and understands that while he is certainly entitled to his opinions, it wouldn't hurt to show some conformity.

Johnny Weir has proven to be gracious in winning and in defeat. He stands head and shoulders above his critics. He is is a great skater and he should be treated with respect. He should be admired for his individuality as well as his skating talent.

I am as happy as a bug in a rug!

Figure Skating has been saved!

THANK YOU JOHNNY!

A MONUMENTAL MOMENT FOR KIMMIE

2008-03-20T17:26:00.004-05:00

A Second Chance Well Deserved

I have become accustomed enough with the new judging system to know not to be quick on pulling out the drums and cymbals after the short program. Yet I am reading several headlines citing Kostner Leads Worlds, Meissner in Ninth, or Rochette in the running for a medal, I find this premature ovation give the athletes and the fans a false sens of security. Life seems pretty good when you are on top. However, the short program, is sometimes a question mark. Any way you slice it, the long program is more definite. Don’t get me wrong, even when it is done for Meissner, Hughes, Lysacek, or Weir I find it a bit untimely. Now with this intense competition, it does not help at all. As a matter of fact, it adds to the already charged atmosphere. A succession of small errors can result in less than perfect performances

To every rule there is an exception. I had felt a bit cocky during Nationals, thinking, in the new judging system, what goes up usually comes down. It wasn’t the case this time. With the US (2008) Championships, the code of point system I thought, would allow my favorite athlete to revamp and come back with a vengeance, she has done it so may times in the past. However it was not the case. This has help me see that any margin of a lead a skater captures in the short definitely can help to act as a bit of a security net for them in the free. Regardless of that event, I still stand by my views that this new system is more of a jumping contest, and it has caused figure skating to lose its heart and soul. Today's up and coming younger athletes are trained to be jumping beans, and figure skating isn't just jumps. It is art on ice; you have to “caress” the ice as coined by the famous Dick Button. Artistry is most of program.

There are so many ups and downs in figure skating, Meissner knows about all of them. On and off the ice. After two lackluster performances at the Grand Prix Finals and the US Nationals in which she finished 6th and seventh respectively, Kimmie has gone from rising star to skating flop. She switched coaches, leaving longtime coach Pam Gregory to join Richard Callahan. Suddenly, Meissner was a force again.

At the US Championships, Meissner was overtaken by nerves, fell three times on three of her jumps, and was seventh place after the free program. After the Grand Prix Finals and the US Nationals, she was given such a hard time by the media, tonight she came back strong.

Kimmie is a gracious winner and she embraces losing graciously as well. She turns every lost, every mistakes into a learning experience and that has gone a long way. She had finished last in the Grand Prix Final in December. It was not but six weeks ago, the 18-year-old Bel Air finished a disappointing seventh at the U.S. Nationals. Her task was not be easy Kimmie had to make-up a lot of ground at the World Figure Skating Championships tonight. And the hard work and determination pays off. I am quite sure Kimmie has gained a lot from this experience, good or bad. “Yeah you’re hot”

The women's free skate is not the last event of the world championships the men’s event will follow.

SOUR GRAPES

2008-03-20T06:45:00.004-05:00

...OR DOWN RIGHT CHEATING

The purpose of the new judging system was to eliminate cheating especially after that debacle at the Olympics concerning Peltier and Salle; however since the US dance team suffered a fall at World, and according to some reporters, the team was not penalized harshly enough. And now, the Canadian pair team who won the bronze feels something went awry with their score, resulting in some Canadian newspapers screaming foul play.

According to thestar.com/Sports/article/347632,(The Toronto Star march 2008) The judges merely Skillful, subtle handled the situation by giving the couple a mandatory deduction and yet granted them enough points to at least keep them in the hunt. And no one is the wiser. This is a grave accusation, Mr. Ciquanta. According to the paper in question, they (Belbin&Agosto) were not “whacked” enough, despite the almost unthinkable fluke in their routine. While their Canadian team mate Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir feel sympathetic that the Americans didn't have their best skate, The Toronto Star is alluding that the reformed scoring system that was supposed to stop that kind of fraudulent, illegal, deceitful act failed.

However, the accusations did not stop there. After the pairs’ free skate in which the Canadians have earned the bronze medal, the same tabloid is screaming foul play once again. According to Rosie Dimanno, the sport columnist for the Toronto Star, Dube&Davidson were the best performers on the ice, they had the cleanest, nearly flawless skate, they had the loudest applause.

But despite all of this phenomenal performance, the gold, according to Dimanno went to the “rattled, sloppy and disgracefully German tandem of Aliona Savchenko and Robin Szolkowy.” Ms Dimanno feels that the pair’s“side-by-side falls on triple Salchow, a blooped opening combination and a death spiral on its deathbed.” They did not merit the honor of the Gold medal. Canada deserved it far more. According to her, their performance was flawless.

Apparently, Ms Dimanno has the upper hand. She their witnessing all of this, and I am confined to the electronic prints that my PC has granted me until I get to see for my self the real thing on the big tube. Until then, I have to rely to sour grapes, to second hand reporting.

However if it is true, there were cheating involved, it will only prove that most of us have been right all along; that is, there was nothing wrong with the old system. It can only be hope that the problem if there is any is fixed; or better yet, it can be used as a catalyst to bring back a more refined version of the 6.0 which will eliminate the cookie cutter programs brought by the Code Of Point system. Bring back art in figure skating; and leave the jumping (contest)jacks for the play yard.

I will go as far as saying this reporter has some sour grapes. Apparently, she is the only one with a grievance. I will draw my own conclusion once I watch it on TV. I am almost sure if there were shenanigans at the Championships, the media, including the fans will call foul!

Scapegoat

2008-03-18T14:25:00.005-05:00

It's the Name of the Game

According to Blades On Ice Magazine March and April Issue, Japan’s Miki Ando will undergo surgery on her right shoulder at the end of this skating season. She has been complaining about shoulder pain since Skate America and had attributed her performance or lack there of as a result of the injury. She had dislocated her right shoulder during a skate at Japanese Nationals and has continued to skate despite the injury.

I don’t want to be callous, however, the question remains: should we attribute her lackluster performance this season because of the injury? I remember an interview Johnny Weir had with one of the sportcasters when he had withdrawn from the Grand Prix Final Last year (2007) and how he was being criticized for being full of excuses. According to Mr. Weir everyone is about excuses when the situation is not to their benefit.

I can almost guarantee that if Ando was having a good season we would not have heard so much about the dislocated shoulder which by the way she had skated with the entire season. Speaking about excuses, Meissner had been nursing a sprained ankle prior to the Grand Prix Finals. She had not mentioned it. Pam, her former coach, had brought it to the media’s attention. I am going to go on a limb and attribute Meissner not so great performances to that sprained ankle.

Some of you reading this may see my point, while others might think “how rude” and hard and unsympathetic of me to even think this way. The truth is everyone is about excuses especially when circumstances are not in their favor.

EXPECTATIONS!

2008-03-18T07:14:00.004-05:00

Kimmie's not the favorite... but that still doesn't make it easy

As far as expectations, I have the highest for Kimmie. As a matter of fact, only Kimmie and her family's expectations can overcome mine. While everyone is looking for her to win ( my objective as well), my main concern is for to to go and skate two clean programs and the rest will take care of itself.

Too many people are caught up in the outcome of 2009, and 2010, and placements. While this is very important, we should be thinking about the immediate issue at hand; that is for this young lady to devoid of all the pressure being imposed on her and go out there, be herself and deliver two strong programs. I have faith in her, I am quite sure she can do it, and SHE WILL!.

Kimmie is smart, poised and confident. SHE WILL DELIVER!

Sasha Cohen 2010?

2008-03-15T07:57:00.005-05:00

Chew On This

Sasha Cohen has earned the silver medal at the 2006 Winter Games, The media’s question remains: Will the figure skater be back in 2010? Sasha Cohen won’t say whether or not if she has permanently retired from competition. It will be interesting to see what happens.

Sasha is one of the best figure skaters I have ever seen, she interacts with her audience, when she skates, it is like watching a ballerina on ice. Sasha truly loves this sport. She is one of the most beautiful skaters in the world. If she ever gets over the curse of falling during the free skate that would make her one of the best, if not the best, skater in the world now that Michelle is not in the picture. Can she pull it off in 2010? That remains to be seen.

This sport, with the new code of points system, is being restricted to the prepubescent teens. As a result of the countless of jumps that have to be implemented, you might as well call it a “jumping contest.” As a parent, sometimes I worry about the aggravation those youngsters’ bodies are being put through. I wonder how Tara Lipinski (and her replacement hip) feels about this new judging system. The sport is sorely canted toward non-menstruating “girls.” Sasha has enjoyed an incredible skating career and the number of medals she has earned is a testament to that.

Sasha is an unbelievable skater; however, Cohen realizes her weaknesses. Unfortunately, she has a habit of not being able to skate two clean performances when under pressure. What I see is a skater who needs to do a self evaluation, and analyzed her skating based on the current scoring system and those prepubescent jumping beams and decided wether she needs to put her twenty some odd year-old body through this unrealistic “dream.” She would really have to work on her technical elements. With the new scoring system her technical elements must be solid and hers are not. She is very artistic. In this scoring system, jumps trump art.

Cohen's strength is her artistic ability. She is an awesome skater. She is a brilliant skater. Her moves are beautiful, gorgeous and the commentators are always in awe of her when she appears to be “on”; that is when Cohen stops falling. The question is WHEN! . As Dick Button would say “When is she on.” I still maintain that Sasha should stick with skating as a professional or with acting at the very least. Sasha has given me so much pleasure in watching her skate. I see the younger skaters in their jumping contest, now, it is not the same. Sasha skates with grace and elegance. I can watch her skate for a long time.

The prepubescent teens can consistently execute the moves for the big scores, yet paradoxically they can't compete internationally because they're too young! I found the "babies" who competed at the US Nationals, to be boring little jumping machines. They can jump, but where is the artistry, they are not polished, and I don't think they will have such an impact on figure skating until they have developed some artistry and elegance other than jumping.

Change the scoring system. Ditch the crooked judges, bring back the 6.0 system, in order to reward something other than mechanics and physics, and let's see maturity and elegance out there!

Weir Accepts US Championships Results, But His Fans Deny Them.

2008-03-13T17:00:00.009-05:00

Johnny Has No Regrets

After two not so great seasons, Weir, the three times US Champion was determined to turn heads. Turn heads, but he did after two wins at Cup of Russia and Cup of China. With dazzling free skates at the US Championships, the skating genius made an attempt at regaining his crown but Lysacek defeated Weir as a result of a tiebreaker by a hundredth of a point.

While Johnny is satisfied with the results, by saying:

“First place, second place, last place, I’m just happy with the way that I skated . . . It’s really a vindication to know that I came back and didn’t completely fall apart” (Johnny Weir An Elegant Redemption. By Kathleen Bangs International figure Skating Apr. 2008),
the fans are buzzing with concerns. They feel that Weir is deserving of the title this year.

There were some concerns about the way fractions of points were rounded off by the computer that was fed scores by the judges. It was suggested that Weir would be declared the winner instead of Lysacek, had the points been rounded differently. Many fans feel the steps in calculating the program component scores for the free skate are an issue that needs to be resolved as a result. Weir’s fans conclude that, had the scores been computed correctly, Weir would have regained his crown.

According to some commentators, there is nothing vague about the scoring system. It is straightforward calculation. Some fans even feel that Johnny’s habits of not keeping his remarks at bay may have been another reason for losing to Evan, and others feel the skating federation wants "cookie cutter" skaters who say nice things and say what the federation wants them to say.

So, did the wrong guy win the US figure skating title in St. Paul? It all depends on who you ask. If you read the International Skating Union's guidelines, Johnny Weir should have dethroned Evan instead of losing on a tiebreaker when their scores deadlocked at 244.77. Weir's supporters and some mathematically-inclined fans agree.
Some of Weir's supporters feel that Johnny's capabilities are being dismissed while those who are biassed to Evan are buying into the USFS party line about Evan being the great hope because his image is more "masculine" .

To those fans, Weir beat Lysacek at Cup of China this year and actually beat him by 01 point at Nationals despite a computer scoring error which USFS refuses to acknowledge. They fey that the score incorrectly increased Lysacek's free skate score by .01 and as a result it became a tie. So Lysacek was given the gold in a regulations tiebreaker. According to some fans, Weir's programs are better choreographed, and when he is scored by international judges who are not under the influence of USFS and their bias tendencies for Lysacek, he has the upper hand.

Weir scored epic wins at the Cup of China and Cup of Russia, defeating two-time world champion Stéphane Lambiel of Switzerland both times. Weir was magnificent at the U.S. nationals despite finishing second to archrival Evan Lysacek. Probably if Weir had just thrown in a double toe loop at the end of his triple lutz combination, he might have won his fourth crown. In any case, it's too late to do anything about it now, since the rules state that the results are final as soon as the medals are awarded. Weir himself is “ok” with the outcome.

I love them both, While I do feel this season could have been different, all in all, Johnny and Evan gave us the "skate" "we"(the fans) desperately yearned.

Now that Evan has withdrawn from Worlds, it will not be the same jaw tightening, couch gripping, breath holding experience as I was hoping it would be.

The Ladies' event is another story. I may need to be restrained!

SEE YOU ON THE PODIUM

2008-03-11T07:19:00.007-05:00

Show The "World" What You're Made Of Kimmie

2006 World champion Kimberly Claire Meissner has nothing to lose at the world figure-skating championships, which will begin next week in Gothenburg, Sweden. She is not the hunted. She is the hunter.

Hopefully Kimmie has learned something valuable during this season. That is, not to let the pressure get the best of her. I have read articles in which she has declared that she feels no pressure, I hope you really feel no pressure Kimmie, because the press has bestowed it on you.

As you leave for The World Championchips I would like to leave you with the following:

"BE SELFISH"!

Shut down all previous performances.
Don’t let the audience reaction to a performance prior to yours get in the way of your own.

Be confident in knowing you can put down a solid performance.
Don’t get nervous, it will take away from your ability to perform the way you can,
which is your best.

You are in striking position for gold at the worlds this year. You can pull an upset. You have done it before. You have to good programs; you just need to keep your “cool Kid.” You’ve come from behind and worked your way up before. Now you have no where to go but up young lady, and with our support, your fans are there to hoist you up the flag pole.

Regardless of which group you skate in, wether you draw to skate in the first or in the final group, don’t allow yourself to think too much, about the other skaters. Remember, it is all about Kimmie (“yeah you’re hot”) Don’t let it get the best of you.

Your objective is to stay consistent and relaxed. Don’t allow yourself to get uptight; just focus. You can say a little prayer. However, DO NOT concentrate on the outcome of the others who have skated before or after you.

At Nationals, during your free skate, I saw a nervous Kimmie, remember to keep“cool Kid” and go out there and give the skate of your life. “You gotta believe”. You need to keep that attitude when you go in to the world championship."

SEE YOU ON THE PODIUM!
I WILL BE WATCHING!

Day of Reckoning

2008-03-06T17:38:00.008-05:00

Kimmie Is Not About Excuses

All kimmie has to do is to skate two clean and elegant programs at the World Championship in March, then the rest will take care of itself. Kimmie is not the first athlete in the history of the sport who has suffered a setback. Ando did after an explosion to the elite scene in 2004, Arakawa saw her stock in the sport fall at the 2004 world Championship in which she found herself in ninth place.

Just like those skaters previously mentioned, Kimmie will have her day of reckoning as well. Miki Ando had won The Junior Title in 2004, and went on to a fourth place finish at that year’s senior global competition. After that, she had suffered a couple of difficult seasons. Her skating was revamped after switching to a new coach (Morozov) in order to win the World championship in 2007. Arakawa who did very badly at Worlds the year prior to the winter Olympic Games in Torino, walked away with the prize after she had delivered a clean elegant free skate.

Kimmie did not fair quite well at the Grand Prix Final. I have firm beliefs that with the new coach, Meissner will surprise her naysayers and pull another upset as she did in 2006. Let’s not forget this young lady has a triple Axel in her arsenals. She has been working extremely hard. She may blow away the competition by landing a triple Axel or two. Unless Ando feels compelled put in the quad. She has not been successful with it lately. Kimmie has been known to use her mistakes as tools to better herself. She is quite a determine young lady. Quad or not, Kimmie will deliver.

A couple of “disaster” performances might have been what Kimmie needed to get her to revamp her triple Axel, especially if she wants to be on that podium in Vancouver comes 2010. Since figure skating has become a “jumping” contest, ever since the new judging system, Kimmie might as well join the “jumping beams” and leave the artistic part of her skating for exhibitions. Obviously “jumping” trumps art in skating. Everything is calculated. Every skater skates to the same “form” it is no longer a free skate.

If you thought the US Championships Men’s event was sizzling, the world Championship will be the most jaw-clinching, couch-gripping, breath-holding event in the sport in history. Apparently, those who are in disagreement with the age limit imposed by the ISU, and felt that the top three American “women” should have gone to World. They will have their eyes on Kimmie as they anticipate every jump, hold their breath for every landing and clinch their jaw ‘till their teeth grind as they await the final standings.

Kimmie was having a bad day. Mirai Nagasu who was supposedly the favorite to win the Junior World Title, did not deliver as promised. After a beautiful short program, she falters in her free. She was having a bad day. And yet she was full of excuses. Kimmie on the other hand, while she was nursing a sprained ankle during her competitions, has never brought it up.

This young lady is not about excuses. She took matters into her own hands. She took full responsibility, and acknowledged that she can’t continue to go in that direction. She changed coach. Still, I have yet to hear her make excuses.

Kimmie, your stocks may be at a low in the sport at this time, all of that will change when you pull off two clean and elegant programs come March.

“Yeah you’re hot”

A QUANDRY!

2008-03-05T06:57:00.013-05:00

Katrina Hacker is a Star on the Rise

Since I had not really seen The US Championship in its entirety as result of my "mourning", I hadn’t really seen Katrina Hacker in action. However During the Four Continent competitions, I had my chance, and she did not disappoint.

When compared to the more polished Kimmie, Emily, Yu-Na, or Mao, there is still some improvement to be made, but given her beautiful performance at Four Continents: the air position on her jumps, the way she travels across the ice, she just skates beautifully. Her free skate was deliberate and clean. She displayed a nice attitude position into a straight leg position to a lay back. She delivered a splendid program, very artistic; something most programs have been lacking since the introduction of the new judging system. I was very pleased with her performance. Her free, clean, skate has left me with the nagging thought that, just maybe, it might have been a better decision to have included her in the World Team (Kimmie, Ashley, Katrina). Last year, despite the outcome at the Nationals (Meissner, Hughes, Cyzny), I had a nagging feeling that, the World team might have been a better team had it been Meissner, Hughes, and Liang since Cyzny has not been consistent. Well, I am having the same nagging feeling this season; that Hacker would have been a better addition to Meissner and Wagner as opposed to Liang. She (Katrina) has proven how consistent she can be at both Nationals and Four Continents. She was mesmerizing to watch. She was not just "jumping" around. There was an art to her skating.

I really enjoyed Four Continents; and would have prefered a U.S sweep. However, it was a different pressure. Kimmie was not competing. I did not have any favorites. It was equally the same in the men’s competition. Except, I really wanted Evan to win (or Carrirere, or Abbott). However, it was not your usual teeth grinding, spellbinding, couch gripping competition . . . something was missing or was it that someone was not there . . . Now I get it . . . Johnny had withdrawn!

SURREAL

2008-02-21T07:04:00.007-05:00

As with any competition Kimmie is involved in, I usually don’t watch until after I’ve read about the results; or I can fast forward my “Tivo” to the scores to see her standings. Then I decide how to watch that particular event. But this competition was unusual, I had no choice but to endure the anticipation of being in the crowd; part of it. However, it was still too nerve wrecking to watch.

Kimmie was the last to skate. Once she had performed, she sat patiently awaiting her scores. However, her body language spelled anticipation; meanwhile, the commentators, while the viewers and the audience were on an edge, felt compelled to comment on Kimmie’s past performances, from the good ones to her recent “disasters.” Soon everyone stood, wondering what was taking so long; I heard some people say that they were tabulating the scores, while others said they were counting her jumps. This part alone should have told me something was strange because this is not the norm.

A reporter came to the crowd speaking on behalf of Kimmie, proudly saying how he knew she had it in her, when another one of Kimmie’s fans pulled out a recent article written by this fellow discrediting Kimmie. Anticipation had kept me from watching Kimmie’s actual performance. It meant too much. However, my gut reaction was that she had won! I started to dance around, some people chanted with me, others clapped. While some glared. The scores had not come out yet. However, there was this feeling in me that she had won! After all she is a winner!

Soon after the party had simmered down, there was a disquiet in the large arena; Kimmie was being interviewed. She had regained her "World Title." It was exhilirating!

THE INSIDE EDGE

2008-02-20T07:08:00.008-05:00

It's Never a Dull Moment

Figure skating is probably one of the healthiest forms of exercise. It is never too late to start figure skating. As a skater, you learn self-discipline, close attention to detail and the importance of practice. Even if you have never skated, and if skating is a goal you would like to achieve, getting out there and taking some lessons can bring you to the point where you can make it around the rink without falling. Who knows, you may even think of competing one day! The ISU has an Adult Track in which "we" can compete as "elite" skaters do. As an adult skater you can compete at Nationhals, and Worlds.

Skating involves the use of three primary joints: knees, ankles and hips with assistance from the arms and shoulders. Muscles and tendons support provide stability to your joints. A skater needs to strengthen all of their lower body muscles in order to support the multi-joint movements of the knee, ankle and hips in skating. Muscle flexibility parallels the importance of muscle strength. This can be achieved through strength and conditioning training. If you ever want to become serious, then you should get involve in Off-Ice training which can be a combination of strength training, Yoga, Pilates, (and Ballet).

Figure Skating is another way to keep active and fit. Grace belies its difficulty. Just imagine yourself being able to create art on the ice, your self-confidence will skyrocket; and so will your self-esteem. Adult skaters also enjoy acquiring new skills and the challenge of improving their performance. You can burn about 250 or more calories in 30 minutes of figure skating depending on your weight. During figure skating you are using a number of muscle groups : abs, calves, glutes, hamstrings and quadriceps.

Figure skating can improve your mental health as well; when you are on the ice there is this sens of freedom. I know with some of the exercises my coach does with me on the ice, it feels as if a child frolicking in the park; being on the ice is relaxing. You can feel like a kid again.

Another upside of adult figure skating is the social aspect. The camaraderie is exhilirating. Not only your social circle multiplies, you get to meet other adults who enjoy and share your passion for the sport. It is a different world. You can never bore anyone about the latest news in skating. Everyone is on the same page; regardless of who their favorite skater is.

Before you go on the ice to skate, warm up your muscles and stretch them. This can go a long way to prevention injury

On The Edge

2008-02-16T20:58:00.009-05:00

Figure Skating's Big BooBoo

According to Philip Hersh Chicago Tribune Reporter (February 15, 2008) The United States Figure Skating Championships will make a historic schedule change for 2010; that is, Figure skating championships will spread over 9 days, 2 weekends in 2010 as opposed to the five days and one weekend which is the current schedule.

For a sport that is losing widespread appeal to viewers, such decision would be an equally unwelcome one to the fans; despite Mr. Raith’s assurance that it would only occur during the Olympic season. First they did away with the 6.0 system, and now this. While I have to agree the new system (Code of Points)is fair to the athletes; however, it has robbed the sport of its artistry. This Code Of Point, which athletes have to cram as many elements in a program as they can ( jumps, -the more revolution the better-- spirals, spins, footwork) to accumulate points is supposed to discourage judges from cheating. The possibility still exists.

The ISU's objective to totally turn off the fans is working. Not only has it become impossible for a lay person to observe the sport, this decision will make it almost impossible for even some fans with limited vacation time to attend.

Despite the drops in TV ratings and attendance at some events, The 2002 Skate America competition, held in Spokane, Wash., set an attendance record with a total 28,664 people at the four-day event. (3/24/2003 Vicki Michaelis USA TODAY )

That is absurd! It is expensive enough to travel for Senior Nationals to see it all of the events in four days. The number of fans who are willing and able to do that is lessening. Now fans will either have to choose between a Ladies and Men's weekend or dance or pairs which do not draw crowds, as in the singles events. The travel and accommodations’ expenses will be a burden to the arduous fan. I find this thought perturbing. Figure skating's survival worldwide depends on the fans’ interests. This is a truly stupid stupid plan. Some people can only get a certain amount of vacation per year. While this new agenda may not affect a great amount of people, by the same token others will affected tremendously. Skating is very important. I can wager my figure skating boots that no one would even think of tinkering with football!

Before arbitrarily drawing to a conclusion, USFS and NBC really should have surveyed the fans’ opinion prior to launching such plan. Those people really have no clue. This is the final straw. The end is near!

NUTRITION MATTERS

2008-02-16T15:35:00.006-05:00

Nutrition affects performance and Training

Figure skating is a sport that requires both body form and physical endurance, yet many female athletes have diets that are low in energy and nutrients. To meet the nutritional needs of physical activity and health, an athlete's training diet should provide at least 55-60% of total energy from carbohydrate, 12 to 15% from protein, and 25 to 30% from fat. It is important to have healthy eating habits and proper nutrition for optimal growth, development, and performance.
Nutrition is a very important aspect in becoming a well-rounded figure skater. Skaters need lots of carbohydrates, for optimal energy. It's not necessarily good for a skater to be on in any diet. As long as there isn't an abuse of fatty foods. It is better not to eat fried foods.

Nutrition & the Figure Skater

To be successful in ladies' freestyle skating, a skater needs to be able to do triple jumps. Obviously, it is a lot easier to do those moves if you are smaller. This is difficult; however, because if a skater loses too much weight, they will lose muscle, and therefore they are not as strong. The legs which are supposed to look the best on the ice may not have enough stamina to launch the skater high enough into the air! It becomes frustrating.

A typical breakfast for a figure skater should consist of cereal and milk and a piece of fruit, followed with a lot of small meals all day. Any athlete --skaters, or otherwise, for instance --who is practicing two or three hours a day may require 4,000 calories, while a non athlete may not need half that many. An athlete who is active burns up the calories really quickly.
The objective is getting enough to eat, You need vitamins, and if you don't get enough calcium for instance, there is chance of stress fractures and slower healing of bones. With low calorie intakes, iron and zinc are particularly low. The skaters feel sluggish and have lower aerobic capacity. They are more prone to injury. There is no need to deprive yourself.

Figure skaters and other athletes should replenish calories after performing or practicing, wether they feel like eating. Spacing meals is important, as well. If an athlete starts to tire out midway through a game or competition, it's probably due to little nnutrition.

Nutrition and physical training are connected.In order to maintain optimal hydration status and the onset of fatigue,The athelete must be properly fueled; and this will enable him/her to train longer. Also, although the stress of exercise training stimulates physiological improvement, adaptations to physical stress actually occur in the recovery period following the exercise sessions. Satisfying an athlete's needs for refueling, and rest are essential components of the recovery process.

The BYOP of Figure Skating

2008-02-16T11:25:00.003-05:00

The Importance of Off-Ice Training

Ballet: provides strength, balance and extension.
Yoga: teaches body awareness the mind-body connection.
Off-ice Training: will decrease risk of injury.
Pillates: increases both strength and flexibility

Skating has its own unique physical requirements. In order to perform all skating elements, skaters need to be well prepared both physically and technically. Certain off-ice training methods will transfer themselves on-ice to produce a better athlete. While other training methods have very little value to the skater, it is well to relate an off-ice conditioning to the individual skater and the demands of the sport. Off-ice Training improves flexibility, cardiovascular conditioning strength, power and endurance; it increases stroking speed and power and improves posture and body positioning on the ice as well.

Ballet, Yoga, Off-ice Training, and Pilates are required tools for anyone who is serious about Figure skating wether you are an adult or a youngster. Pilates, Yoga and ballet use floor exercises to increase body awareness, centering on core strength. These techniques will greatly improve overall athlete performance and bring them to the next level of sport performance. Ballet and Yoga are not only used to create graceful skaters, but also to avoid injuries. A ballet class can be very helpful. These exercises help teach skaters the importance of posture, technique and expression in their skating and assists them with things as: breaking the habit of looking at their feet, and things such as how to find their shoulders, hips, and feet in a vertical line; an important aspect to skating.
Pilates is an excellent tool for the skater as well. Breath, focus, alignment, abdominal and pelvic controls are a few of the techniques that are unique to

Pilates. Pilates not only strengthens the muscles but stretches at the same time, resulting in long lean muscles. Off ice conditioning including ballet provide figure skaters with that

Figure skating is a captivating sport that integrates showmanship. It can be developed at almost any age for recreational enjoyment, career opportunity, or competitive fulfillment. The figure skating student develops coordination, balance, rhythm, endurance, confidence, and self-expression. Mastering skills through lessons, practice and a complete off ice training routine generates an astute sense of responsibility and self-discipline. Combining specific training programs and techniques will greatly improve overall athlete performance and bring them to the next level of sport performance.

WANTED . . .

2008-02-09T18:39:00.002-05:00

Bring Back the 6.0 System

In 2004, the International Skating Union voted to completely change the way skating is scored, abandoning the traditional 6.0 ordinal systems for a new system called the "Code of Points.” (COP) The idea is that in the Code of Points system, every aspect of the skating is marked individually.

Under the old system, 14 judges gave a skater a single score of up to 6.0 for a program’s technical elements. The COP system, nine judges give a score; however, only the scores from seven of them would count. A computer system would randomly select the seven marks so the judges wouldn't know beforehand whose scores would be used. This new format grants a score for each major move — jumps, spirals, steps, spins. This adds a level of quality to a sport often critiqued for its much subjective scoring. Skaters would get points for those required elements, as well as for execution. All of the judges' scores would be added up and the winner would be determined by the total points.

As a result of this new system, I find that the programs have been standardized. The majority of the programs look the same, with the same step sequences, the same spins, and similar jumps. All of those rules leave no room for creativity. There isn’t much room for choreography.

It's All About Points

The skaters’ objective now is to count how long they have hold a position in a spiral sequence, or how many turns they execute in each position in a spin. This format is much too technical. There is little room for creativity, the emphasis is on analyzing and count which element to execute or to omit in order to accumulate the most points. The skater's goal is to cram as many of elements as possible into a performance without having to collapse into a bout of fatigue. There was nothing wrong with the 6.0 system, just wrong judges.

This is what Sandra Bezic had to say during Emily Hughes' free skate (Skate America 2007); and her views are in total accordance with the above thought:

"The skaters have so much to think about. They have to count for points as they are skating, along with thinking about techniques and performance" Sandra Bezic (Skate America 2007)

We are no longer seeing the skaters’ passion, the skaters’ joy during their performances; we are only seeing skaters struggling to get to the end of overly exhaustive programs; programs are filled up with jumps, jump combinations and sequences, one after the other, and transitions, that are usually slow due to the number of elements that are required. As a result, these artists/athletes are forced to complete all these difficult elements in order to obtain the highest points; however; the quality of skating is suffering; with little room left for the choreography.

Figure skating is no longer an art, nor is it enjoyable to watch unless you are a “fanatic.” I miss those days when skaters could actually skate with flair, as they insert a jump wether it is a triple or quad with just magnificent steps sequences attached to it. However, despite their speed, they had elegance; they floated on the ice; they caressed the ice, and with that they had ability to convey great artistic talent. They became one with ice, one with the audience. We need balance. The old system had balance.

The following quote supports this view"

"It's no longer a free skate. There's so many mandatory things you have to put in the program if you want to be competitive." Scott Hamillton Skate Amrica 2007

Biased Judging

Subjective judging system has long been criticized because it leaves room for improprieties. Skaters can be marked down simply for the aesthetics of their programs. It is true that the new scoring system properly rewards the skaters for what jumps and moves they do on the ice — rather than the old days of the judges voting — but the numbers need to be synthesized back into a 6.0.

According to the ISU the randomness and secrecy are necessary to prevent any accountability of the judges to the public. The Code of Points clearly, makes it harder for the public to really identify instances of cheating or block judging. Judges can still cheat if they want to. The applicable rules -- particularly USFS Rule 3435 -- are vague enough to allow several interpretations of what formula could be applied to make the calculations. That is another way in which the complexity of the sport's new scoring system, is not perfect. The problem is, there will still be self-centered judges making "back room" deals. People are people. Different judging system, same old judges. As far as I can see the judges will still be able to do this under the COP or any system by manipulating "Program Component" marks to make the final point totals work out the way they want them to. There is nothing in the system itself that prevents judges from manipulating their marks deliberately . The new system favors younger, springier prepubescent skaters. The beauty and artistry of the sport have been destroyed.

Recognizing Freestyle Elements

2008-02-09T14:10:00.000-05:00

This short guide will help you to recognize the spins and jumps of freestyle. Jumps

Axel

An Axel jump has an extra 1/2 rotation in the air due to its forward take-off. For a jump with counterclockwise rotation, it has a takeoff from the left forward outside edge and a landing on the right back outside edge; In a triple axel, the most difficult jump in figure skating the skater takes off on a forward outside edge, turn in the air three and a half times, and land on the opposite foot.

Loop

The skater jumps off from and lands on the same foot. This is an edge jump; that is, the skater does not use a toepick to assist in the takeoff, the skater uses the outside edge to lift into the jump. The skater will take off from and land in a backwards-moving position.

Salchow

takes off from a LeftBackInside edge, turns a full revolution, and lands on the RightBackOutside edge. It is most commonly entered from backwards crossovers with a step-forward onto a LeftForwardOutside edge. The skater then does an LeftForwardOutside 3-turn so that he is skating on a LeftBackInside edge. At this point, the skater usually executes a strong “check” for stability, with the right arm extended behind and the left arm extended forward. The free leg (right leg) is held in the air, behind and to the right of the skater. The skater swings the free leg and arm forward, initiating a spinning action, and leaps into the air. The jump is sometimes entered from an RightForwardInside-mohawk (which places the skater directly onto an LBI edge).

Toe Loop

In this jump, the skater will use the toe pick on one foot to lift into the jump, landing on the opposite foot. Most skaters perform the triple toe loop by picking in with the left foot, rotating in a counter-clockwise direction for three revolutions, and landing on the right foot. However,the vast majority of figure skaters rotate in a counter-clockwise direction for jumps and spins.

Flip

Another toe-assisted jump. The skater will use his/her toe pick to push into the three turn to start the jump entrance. The three turn that is performed is called an outside three turn because the three turn starts on the outside edge going forwards and ends on the inside edge going backwards. The jump then leaves off an inside edge.

Lutz

The lutz is similar to the flip jump, with one exception: the skater's foot leaves the ice off an outside edge. You can recognize a lutz by the common entrance: the skater glides backwards for a relatively long time, and then the skating foot leans to an outside edge immediately before the opposite foot picks into the ice to launch the jump. The lutz is a difficult toe-assisted jump because of this outside edge requirement. If you hear the commentator say the jump was a flutz, that means the skater leaned to an inside edge at takeoff, like the flip.

pins

All spins rotate in one direction, most skaters rotate counter-clockwise; for these skaters, forward spins are performed on the left foot while backspins are performed on their right.

Scratch

This is the common upright spin in which the skater wraps one leg around the other, gaining terrific speed. A very fast scratch spin--where you can nearly see the front and back of the skater's head at the same time--is called a blur spin. Dorothy Hamill is famous for these.

Sit

Skater is in a sitting position. The most impressive sit spin is when the skater is in a very low position with the free leg parallel to the ice. This is called a shoot the duck position. When the skater drops his/her head to touch the knee in this position, it is called a cannonball. Other variations of the sit spin include placing the free leg ontop of the knee of the skating leg and the half si? where the skater has a very bent knee but is not in the traditional low position of a sit spin. In the half sit the arms are typically held outstretched to each side instead of together and down in the regular sit.

Camel

In this spin, the skater's body resembles the capital letter T. The body and free leg are held parallel to the ice. The flying camel is when the skater jumps into a backwards camel spin.

Layback

The layback is when the skater has a graceful arch of the back and free leg bent and lifted nearly parallel to the ice.

Beilman

Named after Denise Beilman, the first woman to perform this spin. It requires great flexibility. A skater will typically transition into this spin from a modified camel position, grabbing the free foot with one hand to raise it behind the head. Then the skater grabs onto the skate with both hands and lifts the foot so it is above the head. The back is extremely arched during this spin.

Death Drop

A flying spin in which the skater jumps into a back sitspin. Other Elements

Spiral

Move in which the free leg is held behind the skater. The free leg is typically held very high in the spiral. This move requires tremendous strength and control as the skater transfers the spiral from traveling on an inside edge to an outside edge.

Charlotte

Skater glides backwards on one foot and lifts the free foot to a split position, bowing the head down to nearly touch the knee.

Spread Eagle

Skater glides in a straight line on two feet, toes pointed out in opposite directions. The skater can lean back for an outside spread eagle or forward for an inside one.

Ina Bauer

Similar to a spread eagle, but one leg is usually deeply bent in the front of the skater while the back leg is stretched out into a modified lunge. Almost exclusively performed by women, an arched back is key to a graceful Ina Bauer.

Push Dick's Button Vs. The Truth Booth

2008-02-08T14:52:00.001-05:00

The truth booth, based on a feature in some reality shows, is a place where the skaters talked about their performances. With no one to ask questions, the skaters just rambled on. This technique allowed Johnny Weir, Kimmie Meissner and others to make comments about how they view their program that particular evening. On the other hand, on NBC's USA Network, during the Winter Games 2006, the network had introduced a segment called "Push Dick's Button." Mr. Button gets a nightly e-mail question and the answer session occured during the competition. Some previously selected key questions were answered. I find the "push Dick Button" session very informative. The viewers did obtained some good information; as opposed to the truth booth session.

Dick Button was underused and misused during the U.S Champioships. I would have loved it if they had him do a push Dick's button series with viewers asking questions as he discusses hot topics in skating for instance the scoring system; and how he finds it "constipated, and contrived". Dick's comments and suggestions have always been very helpful to the athletes as well as the viewers.

Over the years, the elite skaters have always paid attention to Mr. Button's constructive criticisms. They have used his comments as a guide to make corrections on elements that needed to be refined. I recalled one of the comments that Dick had made about Kimmie Meissner and the use of her arms in which the pundit had mentioned that she imagined or picture a big beach ball as she skated backwards since she had her arms going in all directions; and Kimmie had taken heed and had apparently fine-tuned and as result the problem was fixed. The elite skaters are keen to his observations; and as if he is "E F Hutton", they listen. Once he makes a recommendation, it is followed.

NBC's "truth booth" was stupid and a waste of time. It was a flop. We are calling for the return of "push Dick Button". NBC should lose lose the Truth Booth all together. As far as the truth booth, it appeared that most of the skaters didn't know what to say or felt it was silly. It was interesting to hear what their thoughts were however. A montage format of the truth booth would have worked well I'd say.

UP COMING EVENTS 2008

2008-02-08T08:45:00.000-05:00

February 4-10: Four Continents Championships in Goyang, South Korea.
February 20-23: U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships hosted by the Colonial FSC, in Providence, Rhode Island.
February 25-March 2: World Junior Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria.
March 8-9: Eastern Adult Sectional Championships hosted by the North Jersey FCS, in Westwood, New Jersey. The top four get to compete in the championship masters and championship gold events.
March 8-9: Midwestern Adult Sectional Championships hosted by the Ann Arbor FSC, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The top four get to compete in the championship masters and championship gold events.
March 8-9: Pacific Coast Adult Sectional Championships hosted by the Oregon Skating Council, Sherwood, Oregon. The top four get to compete in the championship masters and championship gold events.
March 17-23: World Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden.
March 28-30: World Synchronized Skating Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
April 8-12: U.S. Adult Figure Skating Championships hosted by the Olympic Regional Development Authority, in Lake Placid, New York.

MEISSNER LANDS A NEW COACH

2008-02-04T17:06:00.000-05:00

Kimmie Edges Out Pam.

Callaghan is an excellent coach. He is renowned. Kimmie has grown a lot; both physically and athletically ; the time has come for a change in her career. Pam did bring her to the point at which she is right now; however, a plateau has been reached. And, Callaghan is the one to get her over that hump. She has found the right team inn Eldridge and Callaghan.

It will be interesting to see what happens. I am sure we will see a growth in Kimmie that we will appreciate. Wether she makes the podium at worlds’ or not (I am quite sure that is the goal), I am positive that Miss Meissner's performances will definitely improve. In turn she will make herself and America proud. The noise makers will sound once again; the horses will be stationed in front of their chariots, the confetti will be shredded, the instruments will be oiled; the crowd will be ready grinning ear-to-ear awaiting as they rubbed both hands together in anticipation of the fallen star of figure skating who has made a comeback .

Seeing the kind of never ending humility this young lady possesses; she will not chide at the naysayers who had been pessimistic when the chips were down; she’d probably say... “I was determine to prove to myself I can do it because the adversities provided me with the determination to push my self further in order to reach my goals.”

Worlds are rapidly approaching and we may see a more polished Kimmie will be the following season. I am positive that the American teams, especially the women, will deliver, and we won't be disappointed. And, our three spots will be secured for next year's team; it will definitely include Kimmie if her decision is to be on that team.”

Callaghan is an excellent coach. Kimmie is a hard worker. The change might be what she needs. Change for good is good. It worked well for Johnny Weir. Kimmie is conscientious and responsible. She does not pass the buck; she recognizes her mistakes. She works diligently.

Different skaters have used different coaches in the past in order to broaden their exposure. Brian Boitano has always worked with a different coach in the summers off seasons in order to broaden his skills. Sometimes a different coach with different methods can be what a skater needs to improve in the areas in which they are lacking.

Callahan is a jump specialist he is definitely what Kimmie needs. He should be able to help. He is a no-nonsense coach, a technical specialist, who has coached Lipinski to gold at the Nagano Olympics. It goes without saying that something is definitely wrong. Kimmie is not getting the height on her jumps and has lost confidence in them. Part of the problem may that her body is changing and with it her center of gravity. Kimmie needs to regain her balance. She may just need time to adjust; or maybe she needs to talk to a sports psychologist. She can't leave any stone unturned. Coach Callahan has come to the rescue, and he should be able to address most of the issues. The rest is up to Kimmie!

KIMMIE MEISSNER NEEDS A CHANGE

2008-02-02T10:04:00.000-05:00

The Problem

The fact is: Kimmie is not getting the height on her jumps; part of the problem could be due to the fact that her body is changing and with it her center of gravity. It had happened to Michelle Kwan and it took her many months to regain her balance. It had happened to Dorothy Hamill, but the timing was such--and the coverage not as intense--so that it passed unnoticed. And they were not hounded as much by the press.

Another fact is that Kimmie has had a number of not so great performances. Her scores since winning worlds in 2006 have plummeted at each competition. Maybe she needs a new coach (that is not to discredit Pam Gregory); or a new choreographer. Maybe she just needs time to adjust. I'd say she definitely needs to talk to a sports psychologist. The Kimmie I saw who stood in front of the audience prior to performing her long program at Nationals was not the usual confident young lady I know, admire, cherish, and have been inspired by.

The Solution

In order to make the 2010 Olympic team, dropping from champion to seventh place, Kimmie Meissner needs a major overhaul. As much as I think she and Pam have a great thing going, the obvious move for Kimmie would be to obtain a new coach. Needless to say, Pam Gregory, who has coached Meissner to world and U.S. titles, has been instrumental to her success; but, it is obvious something in their relationship is no longer working. No one is to blame for the athlete's performance; however, when Weir felt a plateau was reached in his growth, he felt compelled to make a change because, according to him, his relationship with his former coach was becoming stale, and stagnant; and that move proved beneficial. Maybe the time has come for Kimmie to bid adieu to her childhood coach.

Kimmie's inconsistency in her last performances in the free skate at her last two competitions should send Pam either to look fornew strategies; wether it is cutting down on the strength work in Kimmie’s training program, and obtain the tutorledge of jump coach Richard Callaghan, "the jump doctor" or another coach just as reknowned; or Kimmie and her parents need to start looking for a new coach and choreographer.
.

The Real Truth Behind the so Called Tie-Breaker: Weir vs Lysacek Part II

2008-02-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

"...particularly USFS Rule 3435 -- are vague enough to allow at least two interpretations of what formula could be applied to make the calculations. One interpretation would have given Lysacek one fewer point in the free skate and made Weir the winner." Vagueness in rules tripped up Weir Philip Hersh February 2, 2008

Being a fan of both Evan and Johny, being that it did not matter which one one of them won the prize, provided that they both made the podium (1,2); however, I felt a bit perturbed that this time around the prize had gone to the wrong person . They had both skated with vigor, determination, Passion, and hunger. They both had committed some errors on their jumps. While some would argue that Evan's foot work was more intricate, Johny's music required different kind of foot work; it all depend on who is watching...or who is "JUDGING"

Photos results for Meissner

2008-01-30T17:28:00.000-05:00

"Nagasu takes two in a row"

2008-01-30T09:30:00.001-05:00

She Better be Flawless Always!

I hope she has no weaknesses. Once She starts showing any flaws, the press won't be as kind. Look at how they are treating Kimmie Meissner on her bad days. She better have perfect programs all the time!

Rivalry Aside Get Ready to Make America Proud

2008-01-29T10:07:00.000-05:00

Lycasek; Weir :
Get ready to take on the world

Well, since no American man has won the world since Todd Eldredge; I think it is about time you two lads turn that venging energy you have toward each other against the world.
GO AHEAD SHOW THEM YOUR TRUE COLORS!

"A STROKE OF LUCK"

2008-01-29T08:37:00.000-05:00

"A STROKE OF LUCK"

"Westchester's own Katrina Hacker of Dobbs Ferry
Finishes 6th in US Figure Skating"

"Katrina Hacker, 17, of Dobbs Ferry, outskated Kimmie Meissner, last year's national Women's United States Figure Skating Champion Saturday at the USFS Championships in St. Paul, Minnesota. Ms. Hacker, long a fixture at the Westchester Skating Academy was not selected by USFS to compete in the World Championships in Sweden in March because of her inexperience competing internationally."(January 28, 2008)The White Plains Daily Internet Newspaper

A stroke of luck is what I call it. It was not Miss Meissners' night. She has prove herself umpteenth times. She did not just surface out of nowhere. Here record speaks for itself. When Miss Katrina Hacker has achieved half of what Miss Meissner has than there will will be a logic as of now I see none.

"...Meissner will compete for the U.S. in the worlds, even though Ms. Hacker defeated Ms. Meissner in the standings."
Lack of of experience is the least of it. The world knows Miss Hacker on Miss Meissner any half good day would not have held a candle to her(Kimmie). It is Understood Her spirit has to be lifted. Don't celebrate too long because this sens victory will be short live come March.
For now enjoy your drumming, your cymbals your sirens your noise makers and confetti; they will be short lived. Sweden will tell all!

Selecting a figure skating coach

2008-01-29T05:28:00.000-05:00

How to choose a figure skating coach

Choosing a figure skating coach can be a lot of work depending on your approach to the sport.
Over time, you will develop a relationship with your coach which at times might make it somewhat difficult to sever the tie if ever the need would become a necessity. There may be a myriad of coaches to choose from, and that can be overwhelming. Keep in mind that coaches are different with their own particular teaching styles. Some are hands-on, while some just stand behind the board and teach.

When you are looking for a coach, while a big name coach might be important to some people, however your concern should be on who can have the work done. While an Olympic coach may be a great skater, he might not be the right one for you; especially if you are a beginner.

The coach's teaching ability is of great importance specially if you are a beginner and especially if you are an adult beginner. A talented coach may be nice; however it is a grater assets to have a knowledgeable coach and one who has patience.
You need a coach who will help you set realistic goals. Some may put more pressure, and might work you harder than another; well, the choice is up to you. At the end of the day you are the one shelling out the money, you know your strength, and your limits.

The following guideline may provide some guidance should you decide on obtaining a figure skating coach. It is only a guide.

1. Is the coach available for my time slot?
Some tend to be very popular due to their efficiency, they may not be available to give you all of the time you need. It The choice is up to you to either stay with that coach or move on. Personally, if he is that good I would find at least one session with him/her

2. What is that trainer's approach toward teaching skating?
This is critical. You have to watch out for the coach who chats too much. You are not there too chat. Usually after being with a coach for a while you've developed a camaraderie; remember your session only last for a certain amount of time. Another thing you must keep in mind is the coach who teaches behind the board as opposed to the coach who is hands on. With the most advanced skaters, the coaches usually stay behind the boards, and calls the pupils to give instructions. However if you are not as advanced, there are times, when you may need you coach's assistance.

3. Finding out from previous students about that coach's prowess is important.
The best advertisements are the one coming from former students.

4. If you have important goals they should be realistic. The coaches don't have ultimate power. You must be willing work hard. Coaches don't carry a magic wand that can make you do the impossible; and no they don't have the power to take you to the Championships. It is all up to your hard work. While you may need some talents in the sports of figure skating, however 90%of it is really determination and HARD WORK
NO COACHES HAVE A MAGIC WAND!

When you're looking for a figure skating coach, it is very important that you find someone that suits your personality. There are different coaches out there. It is important to find someone that helps you reach your goals.
The best coaches are the ones who can prepare you for the different testing levels and competition if those are your goals. They understand the pressure. Figure skating skating is about passion, setting goals, the way it feels. It's the greatest sport in the world for exercise and discipline. Enjoy it!

The Real Truth Behind the so Called Tie-Breaker: Weir vs Lysacek

2008-01-28T20:34:00.001-05:00

I have admired both Johnny and Evan for long time now. I find them both to be very talented, charismatic, and great skaters. I love Evan for his humility, his technical abilities on the ice, and the way he goes out to the audience.
Johny, on the other hand, I love for his confidence, his artistic talent, and the way he draws his audience to him.

However, as much as I love both gentlemen, I felt Johnny was cheated at the US Championships. I must agree, last season, Johny's performance was nothing to run home about. This Season, however, this gifted and talented young man has proved to himself and reminded everyone else who Johny is and what he can do.

Evan is a hard worker and equally gifted as well. While he was within his rights last season to obtain that title, I feel that Johny was somewhat cheated. As I watch over and over each performance, I still remain convinced that Johny had a better and a cleaner skate. Sure Johny doublefooted a jump, so did Evan. Some might argue that Evan 's foot work was more intricate or more powerful; while others might argue that Johnny's music called for adifferent type of foot woek.. I would put my "Klingbeil" custom boots, which I consider one of my priceless possessions, on the line, to say under different circumstances, the scores might have been different and Johnny would have won the prize. Johnny's outlandish remarks may have jeopadized his title this season.

Hey some of you reading this entry might not like it as well; those of you who are solely Evan worshipers. I love them both; I can tell it like it is. I can keep an objective view. I was not rooting for anyone of them specifically (I can't say the same about the Women Championships though, I had my favorite.). I wanted them both to do extremely well. Whoever had finished valedictorian or salutatorian would have been fine with me provided that the result was fair; and they were both on the podium.

Johnny will be Johnny. He lives by his own rules. That is just his way.

Well, I am a fan of both; I guess this is one of those situations " one can have her cake and eat it too".

Nagasu Crowned New U.S. Ladies' Champion

2008-01-28T19:31:00.000-05:00

If she loses some of that luster next year; or within the next couple of years, or, if a newer talent comes to the scene all that banter and those symballs will ceased. The charriots will lose their horses, and the fanfare will be no more.I do recall very , a couple of years ago, those same praises were being sung of Kimmie. How easily do we forget. That is what wrong with America, you're only remembered while you are in the spot light. It is a good thing Kimmie has a good head on her shoulders and did not let all of the "hypes" swell her head. I sure hope Mirai can take the hint from the previous so called "future of U.S. figure skating" as coined by the press; 'cause sweetie the moment you are having a bad season or a bad day, you will become yesterday's news.You're only as good as your performance.The moment there is a sign of a streak or a lack of luster; or the season is not up to the press' expectation, the sweetheart now becomes the stepchild. You're only good while "you're hot ". No pun intended , if you catch my drift.

Leave Kimmie Meissner Alone

2008-01-28T18:31:00.000-05:00

The press has been very unkind to Kimmie lately. All of the focus has been on the negative. Not too long ago, it was all hail Kimmie, now, she is being treated like old news. All of these youngsters who are foaming at the mouths now; if they happened to lose some of their luster within next couple of years they will be forgotten just as as well. Kimmie is always number one. It is a hard spot to keep. What goes up must come down. Kimmie has always sets goals which is what skating should be about. Yes it is good to win; and she has never denied that she wants to win, how ever her focus, it appears is to have a clean skate every time she goes out there. I saw and equally felt her disappointments after the Grand-Prix Final and the US Championships. Her composure at the end of her programs revealed all; not because she did not win a medal but because she did not skate clean.The legendary coach Frank Carroll sums it well in the following:
"There's so little room at the top for champions. So you have to get in touch with why you skate. You love to skate, the way it feels. And you set goals and tasks, which is why it's the greatest sport in the world for exercise and discipline and enjoyment."" A victor - even before she takes the ice " Jan 23 St. Paul Pioneer Press

And I find that it has been Kimmie's attitude. So Give the young lady a break; and stop using those comments : "old hat" ; "grandma", and all of these other epithets you guys use. She is a young woman; merely eighteen years of age, with a focus. I wish half of the teenagers in America were as focussed as Kimmie is right now. The media need to grow up.

Letter to Kimmie Meissner

2008-01-28T18:29:00.000-05:00

Dear Kimmie

Kimmie, you have a solid foundation. You stand steadfast on the ground, Your edges are well gripped in the ice. With the support of your family, the help of Ms Gregory, your coach, you'll be able to Axel your way out of any obstacle; lutx your way out of any demons; loop yourself out of injuries and glide your way to the top of the podium because just like your family, your fans support and believe in you; and most importantly you believe in yourself.
So don't get sidetrack by the press' negativity. Remember, you are skating for Kimmie; and everything will fall into place. Keep up with your practice, and we will all be in front of the tube rooting for you, because... "yeah you're hot"

Tests and Skating Levels

2007-03-23T08:05:00.000-05:00

http://www.usfigureskating.org/News.asp
http://www.usfigureskating.org/content/events/200607/worlds/2007%20Worlds%20MG.pdf
http://www.sk8stuff.com/f_basic_ref/intro_to_figure_skating.htm