Thanks for the explanation, especially the tips on skating on one skate.

Patrick

No apologies needed! In regards to your questions:

1) Take it slow. Begin by performing an inside edge, then gliding for a second to regain your balance and stability. Then, perform an outside edge and glide to regain balance. As you continue to progress, you’ll be able to shorten the time between edge transitions. Also, make sure you’re not allowing your ankle to “flop” over and be supported solely by the boot of your skate. If you allow the ankle to flop, you will find it next to impossible to make the transition back to both edges – let alone to the opposite edge. Finally, make sure you don’t allow your stick to get behind you – keep it in front or slightly off to the side. If your stick ends up behind you, you’re unconsciously allowing it to draw your shoulders out of your turn – so you end up with your upper body fighting your lower body.

2) By “dip” I mean, keep them relatively parallel to the ice surface. If you’re turning left, don’t allow your left shoulder to drop down (which is natural). This will cause your weight to be leaned too far forward and will put you off balance.

3) When I say “toe”, I’m referring to the “ball of your foot” – not quite the toe. If your weight ends up too far forward, you will (like you mention) most likely be leaning forward. Same thing when I say “heel” for forward skating.

Hope this helps!

-Kevin

I’ve watched your other skating videos, and this seems great. I’m still learning and have some questions.

[1] I find it very difficult to do that one skate thing. I’m watching it over and over, but when I get on the ice, it just doesn’t work for me. Any advice for someone just starting off? I remember seeing a video about jumping on one skate to help, but anything else?

[2] What do you mean by “don’t let your shoulders dip”? How would I know if my shoulders are straight while doing this skating practice?

[3] Am I understanding correctly, there are three parts of a skate – the toe, middle, and the heel? So, when you say the “toe” part, how does it feel within the skate? Would it be like pressure on the first third part of you feet? I ask since, I feel I’m leaning forward too much and lose balance.

Sorry still learning.

Thanks!