Off Ice Practice

HAPPY NEW  YEAR Everyone!

Well, it's that time of year where we all are anxious and eager to hit the ice and start the season with competitions, shows and exhibitions.  Though you might have your programs ready or not, it is always good to warm up your body, legs and memory by doing "off ice" before entering the rink.

Funny, but when I am driving - I do run throughs in my head with my music playing or in my living room.  Sometimes, I just start doing some off ice jump rotations, spins on my spinner when I know I have practice ice or lesson that day.  

I try to be consistent with off ice - but sometimes there is not enough time in the day.  However, when I get to the ice rink - I warm up and do some off ice for a good five or ten minutes.  The point is by doing off ice practice, it creates "muscle memory" so when you get on the ice, your memory of that moment embedded in your brain....crazy, but it's true!!

1. Jump rotations - from a stand still I bend my knees with my left arm in front, right arm back, I jump up and turn in the air.
2.  Toe loop - just a simple tap - toe in, and hop
3.  Loop jumps - just position the loop and jump.
4.  I like doing waltz jumps too
5.  Squats with free foot in front and hold 5 counts - this helps for your sit spin position and how long can you hold the spin on ice.
6.  Jump and check out practice - when I jump and check out and hold my position (this is an area where I forget so easily when I am on the ice.
7.  Axel jumps - waltz jump/loops - rotations

Whether you're a beginner or elite skater, off ice is very important to your routine and make it a habit to continue with it, it will help you in so many ways. 

Happy Skating

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