Friday, August 2, 2013
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
I can't wait for the fall semester!
So a few weeks have gone by, and I have gotten onto the ice ONCE this summer. It was really nice, once I got use to the feeling of being on the ice again. It took me about 10-15 minutes to get use to being on my edges, but shortly after that, I was back up to where I had left off at the end of the semester. I could also feel that my edges were stronger, which means that my off-ice work really does help. It may also been partially due to me having the "whatever happens, happens" attitude at the rink that day. I didn't have high expectations knowing that it had been a while since I've been on the ice, and the first few times back are usually the most awkward.
I've been keeping in close contact with my coach over the summer, and we're planning on starting my Pre-Bronze MITF this fall, which I'm really excited about. He is totally confident that I will be able to pass the test, but we're still going to take our time with it. I'm also wanting to take my Pre-Bronze FS test as well, as their requirements look very do-able.
Since my 5K, I have officially "finished" my C25K program, but my distance needs a bit more work. What I've decided since then is to work with a running program called, "Zombies, Run!" It's not a training program per se, but I am hoping to continue with improving my distance with the program, since each "mission" is about 30 minutes (still not quite getting the 3.1 miles...ugh!). I'm still figuring out things with the program, so it may take me a bit to get use to. However, this is a program that follows an audio story line, and you basically run during the whole program.
Basically, a zombie apocalypse occurs in an area called "Abel Township," in only about 60 people survive. They're in desperate need of supplies to help rebuild their area. Several runners had been sent out, but are killed by zombies, except for you. So, as you are jogging, you get instructions from Abel Township "Base" commanders (so to speak) on where things are at for you to gather and take back to Abel. The problem, of course, is the zombies, and they will "chase" you (as indicated by a beeping sound), and so you have to run like heck to get away from them. This serves as an interval training like program, because you can actually lose items if the zombies catch you! Once you have "finished" the mission, you can return the supplies to build up the "base," and then tackle the other "missions," to help continue to rebuild Abel Township.
I tried the program for the first time a few days ago, and overall really liked it. You can also use music from your ipod with this app, as two or three songs will play before you get the set of instructions. I did run into a few kinks on my end, but I think that's just partially me figuring out how the app works. My biggest bugger right now is figuring out when the mission actually "ends," because it seems to just continue on and on. As much as I like it, I can only run for so long, and I did get attacked by one of the zombie mobs earlier as a result (rats).
As for where to run in this program, I totally recommend doing the run in a fairly populated area (such as a university campus), as it makes it more fun, especially when there are people around. You can pretend much easier that way that they are zombies when that time comes! Plus, it's kinda cool if you're given a landmark (such as a hospital on the left), and there's a building that's big enough to be a hospital. It just adds some visual interest.
I also don't know if this counts for off-ice training, but I also tried my hand at a climbing wall today in a local pool. The climbing wall was in a 12 foot deep pool, and once you get to the top (or decide to stop), you "free fall" into the pool down below. This was a first for me as I have never done a climbing wall before, and I have a fear of heights, when I don't feel totally secure. It's not a huge fear, but I felt the fear kicking in just slightly. I also pictured this wall as sort of like a vertical game of "Twister" because of the different colored knobs that were used ("Left hand, green! Right foot, blue!").
The climbing wall is a A LOT harder than it looks, especially when someone makes a huge splash from the slide just across the ropes. You have to hold on fairly tight to the climbing knobs, be able to use your body weight to reach, pull, and balance yourself up there. However, despite my fear of heights, I gave it a go, and got between 1/2-3/4 way up the wall. If I get the chance to do it again, I want to see how far I can push that fear aside (don't look down!), so that I can get higher, and maybe even reach the top. :)
That's pretty much it for now. More to come next month, so stay tuned!
I've been keeping in close contact with my coach over the summer, and we're planning on starting my Pre-Bronze MITF this fall, which I'm really excited about. He is totally confident that I will be able to pass the test, but we're still going to take our time with it. I'm also wanting to take my Pre-Bronze FS test as well, as their requirements look very do-able.
Since my 5K, I have officially "finished" my C25K program, but my distance needs a bit more work. What I've decided since then is to work with a running program called, "Zombies, Run!" It's not a training program per se, but I am hoping to continue with improving my distance with the program, since each "mission" is about 30 minutes (still not quite getting the 3.1 miles...ugh!). I'm still figuring out things with the program, so it may take me a bit to get use to. However, this is a program that follows an audio story line, and you basically run during the whole program.
Basically, a zombie apocalypse occurs in an area called "Abel Township," in only about 60 people survive. They're in desperate need of supplies to help rebuild their area. Several runners had been sent out, but are killed by zombies, except for you. So, as you are jogging, you get instructions from Abel Township "Base" commanders (so to speak) on where things are at for you to gather and take back to Abel. The problem, of course, is the zombies, and they will "chase" you (as indicated by a beeping sound), and so you have to run like heck to get away from them. This serves as an interval training like program, because you can actually lose items if the zombies catch you! Once you have "finished" the mission, you can return the supplies to build up the "base," and then tackle the other "missions," to help continue to rebuild Abel Township.
I tried the program for the first time a few days ago, and overall really liked it. You can also use music from your ipod with this app, as two or three songs will play before you get the set of instructions. I did run into a few kinks on my end, but I think that's just partially me figuring out how the app works. My biggest bugger right now is figuring out when the mission actually "ends," because it seems to just continue on and on. As much as I like it, I can only run for so long, and I did get attacked by one of the zombie mobs earlier as a result (rats).
As for where to run in this program, I totally recommend doing the run in a fairly populated area (such as a university campus), as it makes it more fun, especially when there are people around. You can pretend much easier that way that they are zombies when that time comes! Plus, it's kinda cool if you're given a landmark (such as a hospital on the left), and there's a building that's big enough to be a hospital. It just adds some visual interest.
I also don't know if this counts for off-ice training, but I also tried my hand at a climbing wall today in a local pool. The climbing wall was in a 12 foot deep pool, and once you get to the top (or decide to stop), you "free fall" into the pool down below. This was a first for me as I have never done a climbing wall before, and I have a fear of heights, when I don't feel totally secure. It's not a huge fear, but I felt the fear kicking in just slightly. I also pictured this wall as sort of like a vertical game of "Twister" because of the different colored knobs that were used ("Left hand, green! Right foot, blue!").
The climbing wall is a A LOT harder than it looks, especially when someone makes a huge splash from the slide just across the ropes. You have to hold on fairly tight to the climbing knobs, be able to use your body weight to reach, pull, and balance yourself up there. However, despite my fear of heights, I gave it a go, and got between 1/2-3/4 way up the wall. If I get the chance to do it again, I want to see how far I can push that fear aside (don't look down!), so that I can get higher, and maybe even reach the top. :)
That's pretty much it for now. More to come next month, so stay tuned!
Saturday, June 22, 2013
First ever 5K-Mission Accomplished!
Well, tonight was the night....my first ever 5k! It was a "pi/pie" run at a local food festival here in town, so the distance was 3.14 miles (*rimshot*). I have to admit that I'm going off an adrenaline rush, so to say that I really had a good time was an understatement. I did not jog the whole time, but I did run for about 3/4 of it...not bad at all for a first time 5k if you ask me. I felt really good about doing this, especially since I had a HARD fall on my run a few days beforehand. I was running in a local park, where I tripped and fell flat on my front. I ended up getting bumps and bruises on my arms and elbows, and really jamming my left hand. Considering that I'm a musician, and write left handed, that was a major blow. Of course, I also know better than tell off Karma that I wans't going to trip (like I did on the run before THAT), because we all know that she is, and what she's capable of doing.
So anyways, I found the whole run to be very fun,and much more entertaining than my usual runs. Everyone was also super supportive, which was great, and it was so nice to hear cheers from the sidelines. As I said, I did walk a few times throughout the race. I mostly walked at the water/pie stop areas (I did have one small slice of pie, as it was a "pie run"), and there was one point where I did get very tired towards the end of the second mile. I allowed myself to walk a few blocks, but when I saw the volunteers towards the end of the race, I made myself jog again, and finished it out. Plus, it also helped that I had a song on my ipod in which the lyrics were, "Don't stop. The party doesn't start until I walk in." (Ke$ha's "Tik Tok"), so those gave me the boost I needed to finish the race.
For those who have never done a 5k, and am considering it...or even just wondering what it's like...give it a shot! I did find it helpful to train with a C25K program on my ipod by ZenLabs (freebie), but do whatever will get you going. I also highly recommend doing an un-timed/fun race for your first time, or maybe first few races. With this race, I found those I was running with to be very supportive and encouraging. Some of the people went by themselves (like myself), and some had a few friends, or even their children. There were a few runners in the front, with most people jogging, and some walkers in the back. It is TOTALLY okay to walk if you need to! If you need to, run with your ipod, but I also found it great to wave at people as they watched us, and even thanking those who were helping direct traffic. This was because without them, the race wouldn't happen, nor be as safe for us. Whatever you do, run through the finish line, and pat yourself on the back for finishing! Trust me, it will be totally worth it. :)
So anyways, I found the whole run to be very fun,and much more entertaining than my usual runs. Everyone was also super supportive, which was great, and it was so nice to hear cheers from the sidelines. As I said, I did walk a few times throughout the race. I mostly walked at the water/pie stop areas (I did have one small slice of pie, as it was a "pie run"), and there was one point where I did get very tired towards the end of the second mile. I allowed myself to walk a few blocks, but when I saw the volunteers towards the end of the race, I made myself jog again, and finished it out. Plus, it also helped that I had a song on my ipod in which the lyrics were, "Don't stop. The party doesn't start until I walk in." (Ke$ha's "Tik Tok"), so those gave me the boost I needed to finish the race.
For those who have never done a 5k, and am considering it...or even just wondering what it's like...give it a shot! I did find it helpful to train with a C25K program on my ipod by ZenLabs (freebie), but do whatever will get you going. I also highly recommend doing an un-timed/fun race for your first time, or maybe first few races. With this race, I found those I was running with to be very supportive and encouraging. Some of the people went by themselves (like myself), and some had a few friends, or even their children. There were a few runners in the front, with most people jogging, and some walkers in the back. It is TOTALLY okay to walk if you need to! If you need to, run with your ipod, but I also found it great to wave at people as they watched us, and even thanking those who were helping direct traffic. This was because without them, the race wouldn't happen, nor be as safe for us. Whatever you do, run through the finish line, and pat yourself on the back for finishing! Trust me, it will be totally worth it. :)
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Off-ice work--it WILL pay off!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Wckn21Bc9chttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zC9p9vKwJ0
Since our rink closed in May for the summer, I've been working on skating-related skills off-ice, and just trying to make myself as healthy as possible. A big accomplishment for me has been running, especially since I've decided to do my first 5K on June 22. I've been using a freebie Couch to 5K app (C25K) from ZenLabs since mid-March. I started the program because I needed something to keep me motivated with running and to some extent, track my progress. Before I started with the program, I tried running laps at the rink. I started off with just running a lap or two, then add on laps each week. However, I found that it wasn't really working for me, so it was hard for me to stick with it, especially since I didn't have a definite plan. So I came across the app and gave it a go. Although I didn't necessarily run every other day as the program recommends, or decided to repeat a day or two because I felt the need to do so, bad weather, schedule conflicts (like the ice show rehearsals), etc., I stuck it out. Basically, I decided when I was ready to do the run on my own terms, but I did shoot for trying to run at least twice a week. I'm not going to lie, A LOT of those runs were really hard, but I also had some really good ones in there as well, and it was an awesome feeling to have that "I rock! I can do this!" feeling.
That being said, I have one last day on my training program, and that's Day 3 of week 8. I'm determined to make it through the full 30 minutes. I hope to make it to the three miles (or at least close), but if I don't, I want to at least be jogging the full time. Unfortunately, now that it's summer, it won't be as cool for me to run in, so I will have to watch it with jogging in the warmer weather. However, I am determined to do it, and actually have at the 5K.
The cool thing about the 5K is that that's a "fun" run/walk event, so if I need to walk, THAT IS FINE (have to remind myself of that). It's a "pi/pie" run through our local park district, so at each of the main water stations throughout the race, there will be also pie served from local bakeries. At the end of the race, I'm choosing to run with "flying pies," which means I can have pies thrown at me as I cross the finish line. I can choose to go "pie free." However, the former sounds a lot more fun! Plus, this event is un-timed, which is PERFECT for a first time 5K jogger like myself. A few weeks ago, if you were to ask me if I was ever going to do a 5K, my answer would've been a quick, "no!" I knew I should've kept my mouth shut with that one.... :)
When I'm not out running, I've been either doing off-ice stuff at home or at a local indoor track. Since I live in an upstairs apartment, I refrain from working on jumping. so that I don't make my neighbor mad with all the thumping around. However, I have been working on things like a "check in/check out" drill with weights, holding a plank position, tricep push-ups, modified and regular push-ups, rotating push-ups, sit-up/crunches and their variations, beginning sit spin positions (those are HARD), along with stretching. Stretching wise, I pretty much have my left leg split, center is getting better, and right split still needs A LOT of work. My right leg is much harder for me to get into that stretch, partially because it feels awkward. Plus, I'm having to be careful with the hamstring area, as I've noticed that it just only wants to go so far, and I really just can't (and shouldn't) fight it. So, I'm doing what I can to work with it, and it will gradually get better. For those of you who may want a good stretching video on splits, feel free to check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvEC3x603Gc&list=PL-foYRcy0Hoo8fr20gxZAC-dL7CnsZwQo. She has "follow along" videos that you can try to help leg strength and flexibility. I will say that for the leg flexibility, please be aware you may be sore the next day, and your legs may feel like jello for a while afterwards.
When I am at the indoor track, I'm including more plyometric work (such as jumping or hopping off of benches), and recently started working on getting full rotations in the air while jumping. It's still a MAJOR work in progress, I have been able to a full rotation jump in my normal clockwise direction, and in the counterclockwise direction. Although I'm just on two feet now, my hope is to eventually do them on one foot, with good body poise and check-out. If you want to see the clips that I have on them, you can see them on my youtube channel (jfluter).
Last but not least, despite all this hard work that I know I'm putting in with my off-ice training, I sometimes ask myself, "Am I really getting better? Will my hard work be noticeable when I get back to the rink?" I think this is because I sometimes (okay, a lot), expect too much out of myself, even if I'm just a beginner at something. For instance, I literally just working on the sit spin position a few days ago. I know I have the flexibility to get down lower, but the strength is a totally different story, especially since I'm essentially balancing on my toe, trying to get my butt lower. I have to keep reminding myself that just because I'm not getting the full position now, doesn't mean I won't, and heck, that spin itself is at least one level higher than what I'm currently skating at, so it's going to take a lot of patience. However, the OTHER things I've been doing (running, rotational jumps, push-ups, etc), there's NO WAY that I could've even done vast majority of those things for a full minute a few months ago, let alone do some things like a set of rotating push-ups, plank hold, and push-ups back to back for a minute each like a I did tonight. Plus, on my "check in/check out" drill, I added a full pound wrist weight, in addition to my regular 5 pound weights that I've been using. I'm even thinking of starting to include my balance disc for more balancing drills (maybe even the check in/check out one), so if that's not progress, someone please that questioning part of my brain because it needs to shut up!
Stay strong and keep skating (off or on-ice)!
Since our rink closed in May for the summer, I've been working on skating-related skills off-ice, and just trying to make myself as healthy as possible. A big accomplishment for me has been running, especially since I've decided to do my first 5K on June 22. I've been using a freebie Couch to 5K app (C25K) from ZenLabs since mid-March. I started the program because I needed something to keep me motivated with running and to some extent, track my progress. Before I started with the program, I tried running laps at the rink. I started off with just running a lap or two, then add on laps each week. However, I found that it wasn't really working for me, so it was hard for me to stick with it, especially since I didn't have a definite plan. So I came across the app and gave it a go. Although I didn't necessarily run every other day as the program recommends, or decided to repeat a day or two because I felt the need to do so, bad weather, schedule conflicts (like the ice show rehearsals), etc., I stuck it out. Basically, I decided when I was ready to do the run on my own terms, but I did shoot for trying to run at least twice a week. I'm not going to lie, A LOT of those runs were really hard, but I also had some really good ones in there as well, and it was an awesome feeling to have that "I rock! I can do this!" feeling.
That being said, I have one last day on my training program, and that's Day 3 of week 8. I'm determined to make it through the full 30 minutes. I hope to make it to the three miles (or at least close), but if I don't, I want to at least be jogging the full time. Unfortunately, now that it's summer, it won't be as cool for me to run in, so I will have to watch it with jogging in the warmer weather. However, I am determined to do it, and actually have at the 5K.
The cool thing about the 5K is that that's a "fun" run/walk event, so if I need to walk, THAT IS FINE (have to remind myself of that). It's a "pi/pie" run through our local park district, so at each of the main water stations throughout the race, there will be also pie served from local bakeries. At the end of the race, I'm choosing to run with "flying pies," which means I can have pies thrown at me as I cross the finish line. I can choose to go "pie free." However, the former sounds a lot more fun! Plus, this event is un-timed, which is PERFECT for a first time 5K jogger like myself. A few weeks ago, if you were to ask me if I was ever going to do a 5K, my answer would've been a quick, "no!" I knew I should've kept my mouth shut with that one.... :)
When I'm not out running, I've been either doing off-ice stuff at home or at a local indoor track. Since I live in an upstairs apartment, I refrain from working on jumping. so that I don't make my neighbor mad with all the thumping around. However, I have been working on things like a "check in/check out" drill with weights, holding a plank position, tricep push-ups, modified and regular push-ups, rotating push-ups, sit-up/crunches and their variations, beginning sit spin positions (those are HARD), along with stretching. Stretching wise, I pretty much have my left leg split, center is getting better, and right split still needs A LOT of work. My right leg is much harder for me to get into that stretch, partially because it feels awkward. Plus, I'm having to be careful with the hamstring area, as I've noticed that it just only wants to go so far, and I really just can't (and shouldn't) fight it. So, I'm doing what I can to work with it, and it will gradually get better. For those of you who may want a good stretching video on splits, feel free to check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvEC3x603Gc&list=PL-foYRcy0Hoo8fr20gxZAC-dL7CnsZwQo. She has "follow along" videos that you can try to help leg strength and flexibility. I will say that for the leg flexibility, please be aware you may be sore the next day, and your legs may feel like jello for a while afterwards.
When I am at the indoor track, I'm including more plyometric work (such as jumping or hopping off of benches), and recently started working on getting full rotations in the air while jumping. It's still a MAJOR work in progress, I have been able to a full rotation jump in my normal clockwise direction, and in the counterclockwise direction. Although I'm just on two feet now, my hope is to eventually do them on one foot, with good body poise and check-out. If you want to see the clips that I have on them, you can see them on my youtube channel (jfluter).
Last but not least, despite all this hard work that I know I'm putting in with my off-ice training, I sometimes ask myself, "Am I really getting better? Will my hard work be noticeable when I get back to the rink?" I think this is because I sometimes (okay, a lot), expect too much out of myself, even if I'm just a beginner at something. For instance, I literally just working on the sit spin position a few days ago. I know I have the flexibility to get down lower, but the strength is a totally different story, especially since I'm essentially balancing on my toe, trying to get my butt lower. I have to keep reminding myself that just because I'm not getting the full position now, doesn't mean I won't, and heck, that spin itself is at least one level higher than what I'm currently skating at, so it's going to take a lot of patience. However, the OTHER things I've been doing (running, rotational jumps, push-ups, etc), there's NO WAY that I could've even done vast majority of those things for a full minute a few months ago, let alone do some things like a set of rotating push-ups, plank hold, and push-ups back to back for a minute each like a I did tonight. Plus, on my "check in/check out" drill, I added a full pound wrist weight, in addition to my regular 5 pound weights that I've been using. I'm even thinking of starting to include my balance disc for more balancing drills (maybe even the check in/check out one), so if that's not progress, someone please that questioning part of my brain because it needs to shut up!
Stay strong and keep skating (off or on-ice)!
Friday, May 3, 2013
All good things sometimes have to come to an (temporary) end
My rink has closed for the summer, which means I may very likely be skating a lot less frequently. Looking back on this year, I have to admit that I'm very happy with what I've been able to accomplish. I do have hopes to skate at least a few times this summer, but it would be at a rink that's about a hour away. My ability to skate will depend on my work schedule, and carpooling issues. In the meantime, my hope is to continue with off-ice work by running, stretching, swimming (soon---yay!), and maybe take some other type of recreational class, such as a dance classes, pilates, or even yoga. I have yet to decide on all of this. In addition, chances are that I will be working for a summer camp for youth with disabilities, so there will be physical activities involved with that as well.
Since my last posting, I have passed FS 2 with good marks, and I'm looking forward to FS 3 in the fall. In addition, I've decided to join USFS, and will be starting to work on the Adult Pre-Bronze level. I also want to seriously learn ice dancing/MITF, and take as many other skating-related classes as possible. I've come to realize that I actually don't like the idea of rushing through things, so my plan is to take things at my own speed and get things really consistent. Once that consistency is achieved, then my coach and I can discuss what to do next. I know that I tend to be very ambitious (maybe a bit too much), so I have remind myself that there's nothing wrong with taking things slower if one wants to. Even re-visiting previously worked on ideas isn't a bad idea because it helps refresh one's mind, yet allows for those ideas to move forward, as you're building upon those basic ideas.
For instance, as a musician, I've been trained/drilled scales and arpeggios, which are the basic compositional ideas for western classical music (Bb concert scale anyone?). Even though I've been playing for many years, I STILL go back to those on a regular basis, using them as warm-ups in various ways, and may even just practice those "basic" elements on a day when things are just out of whack. It's the same thing, I think, with skating. We all have elements to work on, and sometimes, it's just best for us to slow things down, so that we can get everything together. From there, a skater can build upon those ideas, which creates progress. Sometimes, that progress seems slow, and sometimes, it seems to be fast. It's a totally individual thing.
Keep skating and have fun!
Since my last posting, I have passed FS 2 with good marks, and I'm looking forward to FS 3 in the fall. In addition, I've decided to join USFS, and will be starting to work on the Adult Pre-Bronze level. I also want to seriously learn ice dancing/MITF, and take as many other skating-related classes as possible. I've come to realize that I actually don't like the idea of rushing through things, so my plan is to take things at my own speed and get things really consistent. Once that consistency is achieved, then my coach and I can discuss what to do next. I know that I tend to be very ambitious (maybe a bit too much), so I have remind myself that there's nothing wrong with taking things slower if one wants to. Even re-visiting previously worked on ideas isn't a bad idea because it helps refresh one's mind, yet allows for those ideas to move forward, as you're building upon those basic ideas.
For instance, as a musician, I've been trained/drilled scales and arpeggios, which are the basic compositional ideas for western classical music (Bb concert scale anyone?). Even though I've been playing for many years, I STILL go back to those on a regular basis, using them as warm-ups in various ways, and may even just practice those "basic" elements on a day when things are just out of whack. It's the same thing, I think, with skating. We all have elements to work on, and sometimes, it's just best for us to slow things down, so that we can get everything together. From there, a skater can build upon those ideas, which creates progress. Sometimes, that progress seems slow, and sometimes, it seems to be fast. It's a totally individual thing.
Keep skating and have fun!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Spring Break!
This week, I am on Spring Break, as the high school I work at follows the university schedule pretty closely. So, not only am I on break, but so is the ice arena. Our arena is only open for part of the week, so I'll be making the most of that I can on the ice, as well as some extra off-ice training.
That being said, skating has gone VERY well for me these past few days, and I met my goal of doing a salchow! Jeremy and I started working on them on Wednesday morning, and I took a few spills in the process. I also ended up with a big bruise on my left knee from my landing edge, but man, has it been worth it! I know this jump will take a lot of work for me to get down, but my coach was very happy with me just landing on a 3/4 rotation. We also attempted a few toe loops, but I haven't worked on those much on ice yet, as I've been addicted to getting the salchow down. I worked on salchows at the FS session the next day, and managed to take a video of them. As I've said, I've got a lot of things to work on with this jump, but for doing them for only a day, I was pretty proud of myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoMP0M1T1ME
Off-ice training
I've been making an effort to go our indoor track to practice off-ice several times a week. I'll be honest, my most dreaded thing there is jogging/running. I think it's partially being due to being inside, and feeling like being on that track is like a being in a hamster wheel. I'm hoping that once our weather warms up (I'm in Central-East Illinois), I'll be able to start running at a local park, or throughout my neighborhood. In the meantime, in order to hopefully boost my interest in jogging/running is by using a "C25K" (couch to 5k) from my ipod. I have absolutely NO interest in signing up for a 5k (which is approximinately 3 miles) at this point in time. However, I am hoping that following the training program, which spreads over 9 weeks at 3 days per week, will help build my endurance.
In addition to running, I can really use ideas for plyrometrics, as I'm really needing to work on power and rotation with my jumps. Here's two things that I'm doing for anyone that's wanting some ideas:
Bench Jumps (use a bench that is fairly low, about mid-calf in height).
1. Start with feet facing forward
2. While still on the ground, bend your right knee, other knee up (arms are behind as if to prep for a jump)
3. Hop onto the bench with your free foot landing on the bench. (arms come forward)
4. Use your body weight to step up on to the bench with your left leg (arms begin to cross)
5. Hop with the left leg to change legs, so you land on your right leg. (arms are crossed)
6. Step off the bench with your left leg. (arms back down)
I've been doing these in about 2-3 sets of 10. You can also switch the legs depending on what you need to work on, or whatever you feel like doing.
Stationary Jump
1. Stand with feet shoulder apart
2. Squat down as low as you can with arms behind you
3. Jump up as high as you can, bringing the arms forward and then crossing them.
4. Land on your feet with arms behind you. Do 10 times.
4. On the last time, when you land, instead of landing on both feet, land in your landing position, and hold for 5 seconds.
Circular Jump
1. Repeat the steps from the stationary jump, but for each jump, you rotate 1/4 around. If you want more of a challenge, then go 1/2 away.
One last thing
With doing off-ice work, especially with jogging/running, I find it very helpful to listen to music with a beat, so for me, this means a lot of pop music. As much as I love classical music and other genres, pop music is generally the best for me when I need something with a strong beat. If you're looking for a playlist, feel free to use these as suggestions:
Lady Gaga: Born this way, Judas, You and I, Edge of Glory, Scheibe, Just Dance, Paparazzi, Poker Face, Bad Romance
P!nk: Raise Your Glass, Try, Just Give Me A Reason
Shaikira: Waka Waka (This is Africa)
Madonna: Revolver (feat.Lil Wayne)
Adelle: Rolling in the Deep, Rumour has it
Kenny and the Scotts: I Would Walk 500 miles
Beyonce: Halo, Single Ladies
Kelly Clarkson: Stronger (What doesn't kill you)
Dynamite: Taio Cruz
Happy Skating!
That being said, skating has gone VERY well for me these past few days, and I met my goal of doing a salchow! Jeremy and I started working on them on Wednesday morning, and I took a few spills in the process. I also ended up with a big bruise on my left knee from my landing edge, but man, has it been worth it! I know this jump will take a lot of work for me to get down, but my coach was very happy with me just landing on a 3/4 rotation. We also attempted a few toe loops, but I haven't worked on those much on ice yet, as I've been addicted to getting the salchow down. I worked on salchows at the FS session the next day, and managed to take a video of them. As I've said, I've got a lot of things to work on with this jump, but for doing them for only a day, I was pretty proud of myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoMP0M1T1ME
Off-ice training
I've been making an effort to go our indoor track to practice off-ice several times a week. I'll be honest, my most dreaded thing there is jogging/running. I think it's partially being due to being inside, and feeling like being on that track is like a being in a hamster wheel. I'm hoping that once our weather warms up (I'm in Central-East Illinois), I'll be able to start running at a local park, or throughout my neighborhood. In the meantime, in order to hopefully boost my interest in jogging/running is by using a "C25K" (couch to 5k) from my ipod. I have absolutely NO interest in signing up for a 5k (which is approximinately 3 miles) at this point in time. However, I am hoping that following the training program, which spreads over 9 weeks at 3 days per week, will help build my endurance.
In addition to running, I can really use ideas for plyrometrics, as I'm really needing to work on power and rotation with my jumps. Here's two things that I'm doing for anyone that's wanting some ideas:
Bench Jumps (use a bench that is fairly low, about mid-calf in height).
1. Start with feet facing forward
2. While still on the ground, bend your right knee, other knee up (arms are behind as if to prep for a jump)
3. Hop onto the bench with your free foot landing on the bench. (arms come forward)
4. Use your body weight to step up on to the bench with your left leg (arms begin to cross)
5. Hop with the left leg to change legs, so you land on your right leg. (arms are crossed)
6. Step off the bench with your left leg. (arms back down)
I've been doing these in about 2-3 sets of 10. You can also switch the legs depending on what you need to work on, or whatever you feel like doing.
Stationary Jump
1. Stand with feet shoulder apart
2. Squat down as low as you can with arms behind you
3. Jump up as high as you can, bringing the arms forward and then crossing them.
4. Land on your feet with arms behind you. Do 10 times.
4. On the last time, when you land, instead of landing on both feet, land in your landing position, and hold for 5 seconds.
Circular Jump
1. Repeat the steps from the stationary jump, but for each jump, you rotate 1/4 around. If you want more of a challenge, then go 1/2 away.
One last thing
With doing off-ice work, especially with jogging/running, I find it very helpful to listen to music with a beat, so for me, this means a lot of pop music. As much as I love classical music and other genres, pop music is generally the best for me when I need something with a strong beat. If you're looking for a playlist, feel free to use these as suggestions:
Lady Gaga: Born this way, Judas, You and I, Edge of Glory, Scheibe, Just Dance, Paparazzi, Poker Face, Bad Romance
P!nk: Raise Your Glass, Try, Just Give Me A Reason
Shaikira: Waka Waka (This is Africa)
Madonna: Revolver (feat.Lil Wayne)
Adelle: Rolling in the Deep, Rumour has it
Kenny and the Scotts: I Would Walk 500 miles
Beyonce: Halo, Single Ladies
Kelly Clarkson: Stronger (What doesn't kill you)
Dynamite: Taio Cruz
Happy Skating!
Sunday, March 10, 2013
I did it!!!
Last weekend, I know that I was very frustrated with my skating. As a classically trained musician (flutist/piccoloist/singer), I know all too well that bad rehearsals often lead to excellent performances. We just have to get that one or two really rough rehearsals out of the way. In my experience, skating is the exact same way. I had to get to get that one really discouraging skate out of the way so that I could skate well for my test.
So, back on Wednesday, I tested FS 1. I have to admit, I was very nervous during the FS session right beforehand. I wasn't wasn't shaking from the nerves, but I definitely had the butterflies in my stomach. Since this was an official test session at my rink, I skated in front of three judges, all of which are coaches at the rink. First, they judged me on all of my elements (forward pivot, 2 foot spin, arabesque, backward edges, 1/2 flip jump, waltz jump). During my arabesque, one of my former coaches who was judging me shouted, "That looks so much better!," which was really great for me to hear! When I had worked with her, I could barely get my leg up to the required 90 degree angle, and now, I'm able to get it much higher as I've been working on my flexibility. It was so nice to know all of that hard work on that spiral paid off!
As for my program itself, it went okay, although a few things didn't go as well as I would've liked, particularly with my two foot spin and my 1/2 flip jump. However, I don't think any program goes absolutely 100% perfect. My pivot and spirals went fine, and for once in my life, I went for my waltz jump with more speed and courage. My coach later told me that he had never seen me do that before with the waltz jump, which was a really good thing. I ended my program with a T-stop, and was still standing on two feet. :)
I was not asked to re-skate anything, and when I asked the judges if I passed, they said yes! YAHOO!! My scores ranged from mostly 5/6 from one judge (scores are based from 1-10, with 5 being a pass) who is known to be very tough, but I also got a good dose of 7s,8s, and even a few 9s thrown in for good measure. My 8s and 9s were mostly for my arabesque and pivot. My program scores, in general were decent, but those also showed room for improvement, and I'm totally okay with that. I was more concerned on getting through all of my elements rather than making it look totally pretty and stuff, so it was to be expected. I did 10s for my program length, so I at least don't have to worry about that in the future.
Now that I'm officially in FS 2, I have a whole new set of things to master. I've been working on the FS 2 dance step sequence for a while, but that needs a lot of cleaning up. In addition, I've also been working on my 1 foot spin. Like the dance step sequence, it needs a lot of cleaning up, but it's totally doable, and I hope to have 6 rotations down in just a few weeks. In addition, I started working on a 1/2 lutz jump, ballet jump, and 1/2 toe wally. My coach expects that I'll have these moves down really soon, which makes it that much more exciting for me. This is because I have a huge goal of landing my first full rotation jump by the end of the semester. Our rink closes in early May, so this is something that I'm going to do my best to work REALLY hard for. If I don't do a single rotation jump by the end of the semester, it's not the end of the world, but I know that I'm getting closer and closer to doing it. :)
So, back on Wednesday, I tested FS 1. I have to admit, I was very nervous during the FS session right beforehand. I wasn't wasn't shaking from the nerves, but I definitely had the butterflies in my stomach. Since this was an official test session at my rink, I skated in front of three judges, all of which are coaches at the rink. First, they judged me on all of my elements (forward pivot, 2 foot spin, arabesque, backward edges, 1/2 flip jump, waltz jump). During my arabesque, one of my former coaches who was judging me shouted, "That looks so much better!," which was really great for me to hear! When I had worked with her, I could barely get my leg up to the required 90 degree angle, and now, I'm able to get it much higher as I've been working on my flexibility. It was so nice to know all of that hard work on that spiral paid off!
As for my program itself, it went okay, although a few things didn't go as well as I would've liked, particularly with my two foot spin and my 1/2 flip jump. However, I don't think any program goes absolutely 100% perfect. My pivot and spirals went fine, and for once in my life, I went for my waltz jump with more speed and courage. My coach later told me that he had never seen me do that before with the waltz jump, which was a really good thing. I ended my program with a T-stop, and was still standing on two feet. :)
I was not asked to re-skate anything, and when I asked the judges if I passed, they said yes! YAHOO!! My scores ranged from mostly 5/6 from one judge (scores are based from 1-10, with 5 being a pass) who is known to be very tough, but I also got a good dose of 7s,8s, and even a few 9s thrown in for good measure. My 8s and 9s were mostly for my arabesque and pivot. My program scores, in general were decent, but those also showed room for improvement, and I'm totally okay with that. I was more concerned on getting through all of my elements rather than making it look totally pretty and stuff, so it was to be expected. I did 10s for my program length, so I at least don't have to worry about that in the future.
Now that I'm officially in FS 2, I have a whole new set of things to master. I've been working on the FS 2 dance step sequence for a while, but that needs a lot of cleaning up. In addition, I've also been working on my 1 foot spin. Like the dance step sequence, it needs a lot of cleaning up, but it's totally doable, and I hope to have 6 rotations down in just a few weeks. In addition, I started working on a 1/2 lutz jump, ballet jump, and 1/2 toe wally. My coach expects that I'll have these moves down really soon, which makes it that much more exciting for me. This is because I have a huge goal of landing my first full rotation jump by the end of the semester. Our rink closes in early May, so this is something that I'm going to do my best to work REALLY hard for. If I don't do a single rotation jump by the end of the semester, it's not the end of the world, but I know that I'm getting closer and closer to doing it. :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)