Overview and Focus

This video is the final installment of an introductory figure skating jump progression series. The core focus of the class is understanding and feeling how weight transfers in the air when jumping from one foot to the other—a technique critical for jumps like Waltz jumps, Axels, Salchows, and Toe Loops. The lesson guides skaters through several progressions to help build muscle memory, control, and a strong axis line without losing body posture.

Key Exercises

[00:15] – "March" Foot Transfer Drill:

• Starting from an open backspin position, practice crossing the foot down in front and pulling the other leg up into an open knee, "number four" shape.

• Repeat this marching pattern in place while keeping the ribs in and head tall to maintain posture.

[00:31] – Circular Dribble Hops with Leg Transfer:

• Perform quick, small "dribbling" hops around a circle.

• As you move through two circles, practice sliding one foot down and drawing the other leg up into the air position while staying balanced.

[00:47] – Explosive Stationary Weight Transfer (No Rotation):

• Start stationary in the "number four" takeoff shape with square shoulders and arms in front.

• Rise up explosively, transfer feet in the air, and land on the opposite leg without adding any rotation.

[02:53] – Half-Turn Transfer Jump with Dribble Finish:

• Perform the explosive foot transfer from a standstill, this time adding a half turn.

• Focus on pushing off and lifting the leg to create rotation rather than pulling the knee inward.

• Upon landing, use a quick "dribble" hop to stabilize and recover balance.

[09:17] – Half-Turn Jump with "Snap" (Tight Feet):

• Execute the half-turn jump using a "march, snap, march" rhythm. Push off, bring both legs straight and tight together for a brief moment mid-air, and then pull the landing leg back up.

[05:43] – Final Progression: Dribble Entry to Tight-Axis Half Turn:

• Combine the previous techniques by starting with small dribble hops to build force.

• Take off into the half turn, click into the tight-leg position mid-air, open for landing, and hold your balance while maintaining a tall, centered axis.