The free leg should be higher than the hip level as the move occurs. Some skaters are able to achieve vertical (180 degrees) with this position, but it is not required.
The back should be arched and the free foot should be pointed and turned out. The skating leg is straight and locked (or almost locked), and the free leg is extended.
The use of arms during a spiral can vary. Some skaters hold their arms out to the sides as they do the move; others move an arm in front and hold one in back.
Beginning skaters first learn to do forward spirals in a straight line. Skaters taking the U.S. Figure Skating Pre-Preliminary Moves in the Field test are required to do two forward spirals (one on each foot), down the length of an arena. |