My 5 steps to a Jump:

I remember when passed my LTS class first thing I told my coach was "I wanted to do jumps".  My very first jump was my waltz jump in '07, wow!!  I really felt like a skater - was so excited when I landed that waltz jump, I can still remember even till today!!.

Whether you're are a beginner or an elite skater these 5 steps is the foundation to all jumps from Waltz jumps to doubles and triples.   I want to share these five elements with you because I am implementing them as I am learning new jumps in my journey.  I am not the best jumper!!  However, what ever tips that works I want to share with you.

There are two categories in jumps: 1. Edge Jump and 2. Toe Jump
Edge Jumps: Waltz, Salcow, Loop and the Axel
Toe Jumps: Toe Loop, Flip, and the Lutz

Remember:
If you follow these 5 steps in your skating, most importantly in your free skate program, it will help you achieve the GOE (grade of execution) get you the most points in your jumps - by the execution: pattern, position, take off, air position and the landing.

Lets look at it one by one:  (I will make it short and precise)
1. Pattern:  sometimes this element is omitted - but it is important to keep it in mind when starting your jump. What pattern will you be skating your jump: corner, axis or in a step sequence or in combination. This will determine your setup for the jump.

2. Position:   Correct position of your upper body (shoulders, arms and hands) as well as your skating foot is in the correct entry edge position before your take off.

3. Take Off:  the take off must be precise entry (never altered) correct entry edge (forward or backward 3s or mohawk etc.), strong knee bend and vault upward motion will give you rotation.

4. Air position:   when you have achieved the above three steps - here is where the rotation comes in. With the proper take off - you want to vault yourself up in the air and let your upper body and hip rotate, don't force the rotation - let physics do all the work for you.  Note: free leg and arms are cross in front (not to tight)  I am still working on that!!!

5. Landing: once you have executed your jump now its time for your landing.  Landing on an outside edge, strong knee bend and free leg well extended outwards.

I hope to shed some light to this topic - I am not a coach, merely a figure skater wanting to share my thoughts and experiences.  There is MUCH more to every jump and these are just some pointers to remember, consult with your coach when executing your jumps for safety reasons.  Note: If I missed anything or would like to share with me any of your pointers, please let me know.

You're Never To Old To Learn Something New