Looking back at last month, things are mostly going okay. I still don't have my change foot spin and my salchow jump is a hit-or-miss, but I'm gradually getting stronger, skating with better form, developing better edges, etc. I've had one lesson so far for the new year, my coach was very happy with how much better my one foot spin got since my last lesson six weeks prior. I've actually had a break through with that spin, thanks to the word "table top" at my last lesson. My coach is having me think "table top" with my arms to keep them strong and steady as I push and rotate into the spin. With using that, my spin has more power into it, better rotation, better centering, and not on my toe pick nearly as much. So, I've pretty much been taking that idea and running (spinning?) with it. :) As for my salchow and change foot...those will get better over time. Maybe I just need a magic word with the change foot, and it's just a matter of finding it.
My BIG plus for last month was that I skated in the Polar Ice Classic at the Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena near Chicago. This was the second time I've ever competed, and I competed in two events (FS 2 solo and compulsories). Although I was competing "against the book" in both events, I'm VERY happy to say that I scored a first place finish in both events! I even did my solo with only a 30 second warm up on the ice. What happened was that the competition got behind schedule, so my coach thought that we had a lot of time before getting onto the ice. So, we were in the dressing room area, doing warm up stuff, and suddenly, someone comes looking for me, as I was suppose to have been on the ice right then. I was in my dress and make up, but didn't have my skates on! I rush into my skates, but by the time I got onto the ice, I had 30 seconds left. I had never been on their ice before, which, of course, feels really different than my home rink. I was also suppose to be the first to go in my group. Needless to say, this rattled my nerves quite a bit. Thankfully, my coach was able to have me be switched to being last, so that I could have a chance to get myself together.
I was nervous when I stepped onto the ice. I was more nervous about skating in front of an unfamiliar audience, and skating well than being judged itself. I had one mistake in my step sequence in the beginning of my program, but knowing that I had a second shot with it (due to the choreography), I took a moment to glide on an outside edge, tell myself that I KNOW that sequence, let the last one go, and give it another shot. I did the sequence right the second time around, and continued to skate a clean program after that. I even got cheers for my spiral, which felt really good. Before I knew it, my solo was over. I always find it hard to believe on fast something flies by when you're out there on the ice. In regular FS sessions, I will do my solo, but it feels like it takes much longer than when I'm performing in front of an audience. It simply just flies by. With getting through that, I wasn't at all worried about my compulsories.
For my compulsories, I almost missed part of my warm up again, but I was able to get there in time for my five minute warm-up. Next time, I'm going to make sure that I'm ready to go at least 10-15 minutes beforehand, so that I'm not rushing onto the ice. I had to do a ballet jump, 1/2 lutz jump, and a one foot spin. Knowing that I could do my solo well under pressure, I wasn't nearly as nervous doing my compulsories, so I was able to keep my focus really well. I was the only one on the ice at that time, but I took my time through my elements. I came off of that ice feeling like I did well, but it was still really nice to see that first place score posted later on. The first place rankings got me a high five from my coach, so I was very happy with how I skated, despite my nerves, and I'm looking forward to competing again in March for our Illini Ice Competition.
As for a more recent event, I will be trying out for a "specialty number" for our rink's spring exhibition skate in May. The try outs are next Saturday, and all of the skaters are trying out with using "You've Never Had a Friend Like Me" from Aladdin. For this number, each of us designed our own routine, and we'll be skating it in front of the exhibition coordinators for a chance at either a solo, duet, or trio. With this, we have absolutely NOTHING to lose, as we will all get something, so it's a win-win situation.
As for other goals, I have started working on the Pre-Bronze MITF (just started working on the stroking sequence), and I have hopes to put together a bronze level program for the March competition. I'm also skating to a new practice routine, which is majorly helping me stay focused, and I'm sure it will help me with making some much needed progress. The scary part is doing my jump sequences, as I have to approach them with more speed, I build up the speed, set up for the jump, and things MAJORLY slow down...argh! It WILL get better!
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year to all of my fellow skaters of all skating levels and ages out there. I have high hopes for this year to be a good one in everyone's lives. Looking back, I think I've had a pretty awesome year. In case you missed them, here are some of the highlights:
1. Got a new skating coach who has been nothing but fantastic.
2. Passed BOTH FS 1 and 2
3. Learned, and landed, a salchow and toe-loop.
4. Got into MUCH better physical shape, ran a 5k, and got a HUGE hug and an "Oh my god!" comment from my coach the first time that he saw me back on the ice back in August. It sucked to not skate for basically the whole summer, but, all of that off-ice work paid off!
5. Learned a new routine for FS 3, and performed it at our fall exhibition in front of a large crowd, nerves and all!
6. Got compliments from other adult skaters on how much my skating has improved over the year.
7. FINALLY sorting out that freaking 1/2 toe walley jump, and have finally made my peace with it.
8 Decided to try out for a specialty number (solo, duet, or trio) for my rink's spring exhibition. The tryouts are in February.
9. Registered to skate at the Polar Ice Classic at Homewood-Flossmoor on January 11. This will be my second time ever competing.
So, all and all...not a bad year skating wise! Yes, some skating days were harder than others, but the main thing is that I stuck it out. To keep me motivated, I've come up with a list of things that I would like to work on for this coming year. It's not a "must do" list per se, but something for me to work towards.
-Pass FS 3 (planning on testing that in a month or so)
-Learn, take, and pass USFS Adult Pre-Bronze MITF and FS
-Get a legit spread eagle and Ina Bauer, and maybe use them in a program
-Land a clean loop and flip jump, both off and on ice...MAYBE take FS 4 late next fall
-Continue to work on overall fitness and flexibility, including the possibility of running a 1/2 marathon in April. :). I also want to get a true center split, and get my right leg split consistent. However, my right leg split is MUCH better than what it use to be!
-Learn the beginning ice dances
-Skate at different rinks if I get the chance, and maybe take a lesson or two in a specialty area from a different coach at said rink.
-Don't be intimidated by the young skaters. A lot of times, we're working on similar, overall ideas, just at different levels. Plus, someone's got to show them that one can skate as a grown up, and be good at it. It might as well be me (and you!).
-Skate more often for the sheer fun of it. Go ahead...laugh with a friend at attempts to do shoot the ducks and landing on your butt.
-Continue to have a positive attitude with my coach, and be willing to try new things
-Continue to conquer the fear of falling by allowing myself to fall. Yes, there is a chance of falling on my front superman style or hitting the back of my head, but I can't let that fear stop me.
-Be proud of what I'm able to do, what I'm working towards, and seeing how far I have come. Come to think of it, I've come A LONG WAY since I started skating classes on January 16, 2011. :)
- DON'T.GIVE.UP! Off-days and bad days are gonna happen, but quitting is NOT an option.
What are YOUR goals?
1. Got a new skating coach who has been nothing but fantastic.
2. Passed BOTH FS 1 and 2
3. Learned, and landed, a salchow and toe-loop.
4. Got into MUCH better physical shape, ran a 5k, and got a HUGE hug and an "Oh my god!" comment from my coach the first time that he saw me back on the ice back in August. It sucked to not skate for basically the whole summer, but, all of that off-ice work paid off!
5. Learned a new routine for FS 3, and performed it at our fall exhibition in front of a large crowd, nerves and all!
6. Got compliments from other adult skaters on how much my skating has improved over the year.
7. FINALLY sorting out that freaking 1/2 toe walley jump, and have finally made my peace with it.
8 Decided to try out for a specialty number (solo, duet, or trio) for my rink's spring exhibition. The tryouts are in February.
9. Registered to skate at the Polar Ice Classic at Homewood-Flossmoor on January 11. This will be my second time ever competing.
So, all and all...not a bad year skating wise! Yes, some skating days were harder than others, but the main thing is that I stuck it out. To keep me motivated, I've come up with a list of things that I would like to work on for this coming year. It's not a "must do" list per se, but something for me to work towards.
-Pass FS 3 (planning on testing that in a month or so)
-Learn, take, and pass USFS Adult Pre-Bronze MITF and FS
-Get a legit spread eagle and Ina Bauer, and maybe use them in a program
-Land a clean loop and flip jump, both off and on ice...MAYBE take FS 4 late next fall
-Continue to work on overall fitness and flexibility, including the possibility of running a 1/2 marathon in April. :). I also want to get a true center split, and get my right leg split consistent. However, my right leg split is MUCH better than what it use to be!
-Learn the beginning ice dances
-Skate at different rinks if I get the chance, and maybe take a lesson or two in a specialty area from a different coach at said rink.
-Don't be intimidated by the young skaters. A lot of times, we're working on similar, overall ideas, just at different levels. Plus, someone's got to show them that one can skate as a grown up, and be good at it. It might as well be me (and you!).
-Skate more often for the sheer fun of it. Go ahead...laugh with a friend at attempts to do shoot the ducks and landing on your butt.
-Continue to have a positive attitude with my coach, and be willing to try new things
-Continue to conquer the fear of falling by allowing myself to fall. Yes, there is a chance of falling on my front superman style or hitting the back of my head, but I can't let that fear stop me.
-Be proud of what I'm able to do, what I'm working towards, and seeing how far I have come. Come to think of it, I've come A LONG WAY since I started skating classes on January 16, 2011. :)
- DON'T.GIVE.UP! Off-days and bad days are gonna happen, but quitting is NOT an option.
What are YOUR goals?
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Gradually making progress
Well, I finally did it. I skated a solo in an exhibition skate! This program was a whirlwind program that my coach and I put together in just a few weeks, and the program is mostly an FS 3 level. I was really nervous about doing the program the night before, and my coach could see the panic in my face. It also didn't help that I took a hard fall right on my tush, and ended up on my back. My coach didn't see the fall itself, but heard the impact, and saw me on my back, which was enough to scare anyone. I considered that skate my "rough skate," so I was just getting the jitters and the falls out of the way. As a musician, I've had MANY times in which I would have a rough practice/rehearsal, and the performance would be fine.
As for the show itself, I'm super proud that I did it. I skated to Henry Mancini's "Love Theme" to Romeo and Juliet, and felt as pretty as Juliet on the ice in my lavender colored dress that I stoned myself. I had never stoned a dress before, and to say that I learned a few things along the way is an understatement. Essentially, patience is key, along with using large enough stones (at least 12 to 16ss), and using a good glue. I had a bit of an adventure with stoning the dress because I bought crystals that were standard sized (ss) 8, 10, and 12. The stones were MUCH smaller than I anticipated! Plus, I initially used "hot fix," swavorsky cyrstals, which required this special type of glue gun, which ended up not working at all. I couldn't get the stones to stick to my dress to save my life, yet the glue gun almost burned a hole in my dress--YIKES!! I finally caved and bought "gem tac" glue from a craft store, but initially didn't use enough of it. I eventually DID get the stones to stick, but I think I must've re-glued each stone about 4-5 times in the process. Unfortunately, I am still finding some of the stones that I dropped along the way. However, the dress was worth it, and I got a ton of compliments on it. I do plan on using the dress for some future competitions this spring.
As for the exhibition itself, as I said, I'm very proud of what I was able to do. It wasn't perfect by any means, but my biggest accomplishment was not panicking during the performance. I had a few instances when things didn't go right, but would just "Nope. You're not going to panic. Just keep going, and pretend that Romeo is dancing with you." We had a really nice crowd, and it felt nice to get cheers from the audience for my routine. :)
Now that the show is over, I had been focusing on trying to get all of my elements down to pass my FS 3 test. I had initially thought I would test this coming week. However, a few days ago, I made the decision to not test as I'm honestly not ready for it. It's mostly due to not having my change foot spin, which is just an awkward spin to do. I had been stressing myself out over it, and finally came to the conclusion that I'm just not ready to test yet, and, THAT.IS.OKAY! My coach is also totally cool with my decision, as I would much rather test when I'm confident on the elements, and get good scores, especially since they're the backbone to future elements that I will be working on. I've decided that I will keep working on my FS 3 elements, but do the test at a later point...maybe in a month or two.
In the meantime, I've also decided to enter my first skating competition since competing at the Delta level a few years ago. I'm planning on competing at the ISI Polar Classic in the Chicago area in January. For this competition, I'm planning on doing compulsories and my FS 2 level solo. Then, depending on how things are coming along for me FS 3 wise, I may do the Sweetheart Open competition, also in the Chicago area, in February, at the Open Bronze level. Then, depending on when I decide to take my FS 3 test, I may skate at the FS 3 level or Open Bronze level for my rink's competition. In addition, I will also be trying out for my rink's spring showcase (assuming that I will at least be in the adult number), and starting to work on USFS Pre-Bronze MITF this next semester. So, although I'm not testing my FS 3 as I originally planned, I have enough on my plate to keep me challenged, and when I am ready to take that test, I'm determined to do well on it.
For your viewing pleasure, you see my program to the exhibition skate through this link below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x60ZKB5gAY
Picture of my skating dress:
Don't look down, and keep on skating!
Janet
As for the show itself, I'm super proud that I did it. I skated to Henry Mancini's "Love Theme" to Romeo and Juliet, and felt as pretty as Juliet on the ice in my lavender colored dress that I stoned myself. I had never stoned a dress before, and to say that I learned a few things along the way is an understatement. Essentially, patience is key, along with using large enough stones (at least 12 to 16ss), and using a good glue. I had a bit of an adventure with stoning the dress because I bought crystals that were standard sized (ss) 8, 10, and 12. The stones were MUCH smaller than I anticipated! Plus, I initially used "hot fix," swavorsky cyrstals, which required this special type of glue gun, which ended up not working at all. I couldn't get the stones to stick to my dress to save my life, yet the glue gun almost burned a hole in my dress--YIKES!! I finally caved and bought "gem tac" glue from a craft store, but initially didn't use enough of it. I eventually DID get the stones to stick, but I think I must've re-glued each stone about 4-5 times in the process. Unfortunately, I am still finding some of the stones that I dropped along the way. However, the dress was worth it, and I got a ton of compliments on it. I do plan on using the dress for some future competitions this spring.
As for the exhibition itself, as I said, I'm very proud of what I was able to do. It wasn't perfect by any means, but my biggest accomplishment was not panicking during the performance. I had a few instances when things didn't go right, but would just "Nope. You're not going to panic. Just keep going, and pretend that Romeo is dancing with you." We had a really nice crowd, and it felt nice to get cheers from the audience for my routine. :)
Now that the show is over, I had been focusing on trying to get all of my elements down to pass my FS 3 test. I had initially thought I would test this coming week. However, a few days ago, I made the decision to not test as I'm honestly not ready for it. It's mostly due to not having my change foot spin, which is just an awkward spin to do. I had been stressing myself out over it, and finally came to the conclusion that I'm just not ready to test yet, and, THAT.IS.OKAY! My coach is also totally cool with my decision, as I would much rather test when I'm confident on the elements, and get good scores, especially since they're the backbone to future elements that I will be working on. I've decided that I will keep working on my FS 3 elements, but do the test at a later point...maybe in a month or two.
In the meantime, I've also decided to enter my first skating competition since competing at the Delta level a few years ago. I'm planning on competing at the ISI Polar Classic in the Chicago area in January. For this competition, I'm planning on doing compulsories and my FS 2 level solo. Then, depending on how things are coming along for me FS 3 wise, I may do the Sweetheart Open competition, also in the Chicago area, in February, at the Open Bronze level. Then, depending on when I decide to take my FS 3 test, I may skate at the FS 3 level or Open Bronze level for my rink's competition. In addition, I will also be trying out for my rink's spring showcase (assuming that I will at least be in the adult number), and starting to work on USFS Pre-Bronze MITF this next semester. So, although I'm not testing my FS 3 as I originally planned, I have enough on my plate to keep me challenged, and when I am ready to take that test, I'm determined to do well on it.
For your viewing pleasure, you see my program to the exhibition skate through this link below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x60ZKB5gAY
Picture of my skating dress:
Don't look down, and keep on skating!
Janet
Monday, September 16, 2013
Back to it!
Yay! I've been able to get back onto the ice fairly regularly since our rink re-opened in late August. I have to admit, it took me a while to get use to the feeling of being back on the ice (again), but I am beginning to feel that I've already been making progress. I had my first lesson of the season with my coach this past Saturday, and it felt great to be working with him again. The main focus of the lesson was learning warm-up drills to really get my body warmed up, and even to get my mind focused to some degree, especially with doing things on both sides of the body. We also spent some time working on a jumping pattern that he wants me to start incorporating. The jump pattern is very hard for me at this point as I'm building a lot of speed (a good thing), but it makes the actual jump MUCH more difficult.
The bonus feature of this lesson was putting my fear of falling aside (for the most part), and even allowing myself to fall throughout the lesson, and NOT feeling bad about it. This especially came about as we worked on Salchows, and needless to say, I messed up my landings on more than one occasion. However, I did manage to land a few of them, with one or two being fully rotated. Plus, I continued to improve on the Salchow as a whole towards the end of the lesson. My coach was very happy with this, and gave me a high 5. :) My coach is generally very easy going, and so it's not uncommon to hear him shout, "Yes!" throughout a lesson on occasion, but it felt really good to get that high 5 thrown in...definite confidence booster!
In addition, my coach picked out my program music, although he took our suggestions in consideration. I must have sent him about 30 suggestions, but of course, he came up with a piece that I had not even thought about. It's an arrangement of Henry Mancini's "Love Theme" to Romeo and Juliet. I do really like the piece, and have hopes for it to continue to grow on me, and to really develop the ability to make it artistic.
For any of you that interested, here's the warm-up routine that I did the other day. The first few are things that I normally do on my own, while the rest are what my coach threw in.
1. Forward Stroking
2. Forward and Backward Crossovers
3. Forward and Backward edges (Inside and Outside) on a line
4. Forward Inside/Outside 3-turns on a line
Stretching at the boards:
1. Spiral stretches
2. Spread eagle stretch, focusing on having the hips touch the wall/board, and bringing the legs closer together
3. Lunge on both legs
4. Drill (based off of what coach and I worked on)--lunge to spiral. Start in a lunge position, then lift up and forward to a spiral position, without letting the the free leg touch the ground. Do each side 5 times.
My coach's drills along the long axis of the rink:
1. Bunny hops, without letting the free foot touch the ground in between. Do one leg on one side, and the other leg on the other.
2. Bunny hop/lunge combo-same as the previous drill, but adding in the lunge.
3. 2 strokes, bunny hop, lunge--don't let the free foot touch the ground
Dip Drill
1. 2 strokes, bunny hop, dip as low as possible
(hands out in front, one grabbing the other. I was doing it with my left hand grabbing my right)
2. Shoot the duck.
Take several strokes to build speed, dip, and and extend out your free foot. Since I'm a clockwise skater, I balance on my right foot, and kept my left foot out in front. My hand position was the same as above. I was actually able to get pretty low with this, so my coach was happy about that. :)
When going through ALL of these drills yesterday, it took me about 30 minutes, but that was the main focus of my practice. In most cases, I probably shouldn't be spending so much time on these, and will probably shoot to do most of these in about 15 minutes in the future.
Jump pattern:
1. Left over right forward crossovers, starting at my edge circle.
2. Continue crossovers until 1 lap is completed, and head toward the top of the Lutz circle.
3. When in between circles, do an inside mohawk
4. Do backward crossovers about 1/2 away around the Lutz circle, then head towards the center circle, continuing with the backward crossovers to really build speed.
5. Once at the center circle, go into a two foot backward glide, and hold for a few counts (3-5)
6. Open up/Prep the jump
7. Jump
I am not sure if this jump pattern is meant specifically for edge jumps, but we did this with just trying a waltz jump. As I said, it was SUPER hard because I was dealing with a lot more speed than what I'm use to, and it was more straight line.
As for work on doing a salchow, we worked on this drill using a hockey line:
1. Push into a forward outside three turn, hold the 3-turn straight back. You'll be on a slight inside edge
2. Check arms (left arm bent at the elbow if you're CCW, or right arm bent at the elbow if you're CW, opposite arm in back)
3. Swing your free around to gain momentum, crossing arms
4. Bunny hop at the end with landing position.
Since the jump is still technically a half rotation, the kick through/bunny hop is only used to help gain momentum with doing the actual jump. Of course, in the real jump itself, you won't be doing the bunny hop, but landing on the outside edge of the opposite foot. However, DO NOT think that this jump is "just" a 3-turn with a waltz jump tacked on, as this is not the case.
As for doing the jump off-ice it can be done two different ways. Naturally, one way is harder than the other, but they're both worth practicing when you're advanced enough to work on this jump.
Harder way:
1. Start in your take-off position, as if you had finished the 3-turn. Your arms should be checked, with free leg straight, and skating leg well bent.
2. Kick the free leg through and around, so that you do a 1/2 rotation. Think of jumping up and out.
3. Land the jump on the opposite leg on one foot.
4. Hop as needed to complete the rotation and regain balance.
5. Finish in landing position
Easier way:
1. Start in your normal take off position
2. Hop around on your skating leg several times
3. On the last hop, kick the free leg through and around
4. Land on opposite foot. Hop around as needed for rotation and stability.
5. Finish in landing position
Feel free to try the above warm-up drills and adjust them to your needs. As for the jumping, please do not attempt these until your coach says it's okay to do so. I don't want anyone getting hurt for attempting a something that is way beyond your level.
Happy skating, and feel free to check out the link to my program music (has yet to be edited) for this season. Of course, if you have any comments, please feel free to put them down below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-fY0scV6K4
The bonus feature of this lesson was putting my fear of falling aside (for the most part), and even allowing myself to fall throughout the lesson, and NOT feeling bad about it. This especially came about as we worked on Salchows, and needless to say, I messed up my landings on more than one occasion. However, I did manage to land a few of them, with one or two being fully rotated. Plus, I continued to improve on the Salchow as a whole towards the end of the lesson. My coach was very happy with this, and gave me a high 5. :) My coach is generally very easy going, and so it's not uncommon to hear him shout, "Yes!" throughout a lesson on occasion, but it felt really good to get that high 5 thrown in...definite confidence booster!
In addition, my coach picked out my program music, although he took our suggestions in consideration. I must have sent him about 30 suggestions, but of course, he came up with a piece that I had not even thought about. It's an arrangement of Henry Mancini's "Love Theme" to Romeo and Juliet. I do really like the piece, and have hopes for it to continue to grow on me, and to really develop the ability to make it artistic.
For any of you that interested, here's the warm-up routine that I did the other day. The first few are things that I normally do on my own, while the rest are what my coach threw in.
1. Forward Stroking
2. Forward and Backward Crossovers
3. Forward and Backward edges (Inside and Outside) on a line
4. Forward Inside/Outside 3-turns on a line
Stretching at the boards:
1. Spiral stretches
2. Spread eagle stretch, focusing on having the hips touch the wall/board, and bringing the legs closer together
3. Lunge on both legs
4. Drill (based off of what coach and I worked on)--lunge to spiral. Start in a lunge position, then lift up and forward to a spiral position, without letting the the free leg touch the ground. Do each side 5 times.
My coach's drills along the long axis of the rink:
1. Bunny hops, without letting the free foot touch the ground in between. Do one leg on one side, and the other leg on the other.
2. Bunny hop/lunge combo-same as the previous drill, but adding in the lunge.
3. 2 strokes, bunny hop, lunge--don't let the free foot touch the ground
Dip Drill
1. 2 strokes, bunny hop, dip as low as possible
(hands out in front, one grabbing the other. I was doing it with my left hand grabbing my right)
2. Shoot the duck.
Take several strokes to build speed, dip, and and extend out your free foot. Since I'm a clockwise skater, I balance on my right foot, and kept my left foot out in front. My hand position was the same as above. I was actually able to get pretty low with this, so my coach was happy about that. :)
When going through ALL of these drills yesterday, it took me about 30 minutes, but that was the main focus of my practice. In most cases, I probably shouldn't be spending so much time on these, and will probably shoot to do most of these in about 15 minutes in the future.
Jump pattern:
1. Left over right forward crossovers, starting at my edge circle.
2. Continue crossovers until 1 lap is completed, and head toward the top of the Lutz circle.
3. When in between circles, do an inside mohawk
4. Do backward crossovers about 1/2 away around the Lutz circle, then head towards the center circle, continuing with the backward crossovers to really build speed.
5. Once at the center circle, go into a two foot backward glide, and hold for a few counts (3-5)
6. Open up/Prep the jump
7. Jump
I am not sure if this jump pattern is meant specifically for edge jumps, but we did this with just trying a waltz jump. As I said, it was SUPER hard because I was dealing with a lot more speed than what I'm use to, and it was more straight line.
As for work on doing a salchow, we worked on this drill using a hockey line:
1. Push into a forward outside three turn, hold the 3-turn straight back. You'll be on a slight inside edge
2. Check arms (left arm bent at the elbow if you're CCW, or right arm bent at the elbow if you're CW, opposite arm in back)
3. Swing your free around to gain momentum, crossing arms
4. Bunny hop at the end with landing position.
Since the jump is still technically a half rotation, the kick through/bunny hop is only used to help gain momentum with doing the actual jump. Of course, in the real jump itself, you won't be doing the bunny hop, but landing on the outside edge of the opposite foot. However, DO NOT think that this jump is "just" a 3-turn with a waltz jump tacked on, as this is not the case.
As for doing the jump off-ice it can be done two different ways. Naturally, one way is harder than the other, but they're both worth practicing when you're advanced enough to work on this jump.
Harder way:
1. Start in your take-off position, as if you had finished the 3-turn. Your arms should be checked, with free leg straight, and skating leg well bent.
2. Kick the free leg through and around, so that you do a 1/2 rotation. Think of jumping up and out.
3. Land the jump on the opposite leg on one foot.
4. Hop as needed to complete the rotation and regain balance.
5. Finish in landing position
Easier way:
1. Start in your normal take off position
2. Hop around on your skating leg several times
3. On the last hop, kick the free leg through and around
4. Land on opposite foot. Hop around as needed for rotation and stability.
5. Finish in landing position
Feel free to try the above warm-up drills and adjust them to your needs. As for the jumping, please do not attempt these until your coach says it's okay to do so. I don't want anyone getting hurt for attempting a something that is way beyond your level.
Happy skating, and feel free to check out the link to my program music (has yet to be edited) for this season. Of course, if you have any comments, please feel free to put them down below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-fY0scV6K4
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. :)
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