|
Figures & Loops Ever wonder why there are black Figure 8 circles on a roller skating floor? In competitive roller skating, these figure 8 circles are used for Figures. According to USA Roller Sports*, figures are the basis of all skating, teaching balance, control, and discipline. There are many figures for a skater to learn, starting with the most simplistic, Figure 1, in which the skater attempts to keep the black line in between the wheels of the skate while skating forward on an outside edge. Figures can be performed forward, backwards, or both, using turns to change directions, using outside, inside, or both types of edges. Depending on the figure, turns must be place precisely on the figure circle. They made be placed at the half or 1/3 marks. In some figures, only 2 connected circles are used. Other figures require all 3 connected circles. At competitions, skaters are judged on their tracing of the figure circle, execution of turns and takeoffs, pace, and posture. Judges stand right next to the figure circles as skaters are being judged. Typically 2-3 figures are presented in front of the judges to determine the winner. The smaller black circles, known as limaçons, are used for loops, skated in the forward and backward directions as well as the outside and inside edges. Depending upon age and level, skaters can compete in loop events separate from figures. At the Junior World Class and World Class levels, loops are judge in combination with the figures. For a figure skater to succeed, the skater needs to possess the following characteristics: good body position; excellent body awareness; good control; extreme concentration; dedication; and time. Definitions: Tracing: Keeping the black line of the figure circle in between the wheels of the skate. Outside Edge: Pressing the outside of the foot so that the skate flows in an outward direction. Typically the easier edge to learn and perfect. Inside edge: Pressing the inside of the foot while maintaining a smooth roll. Skating leg: The leg skated on, employed leg, should be slightly bent or “tall” Freeleg: The leg that is in the air, non-employed leg. The freeleg should be as low to the skating floor and as stretched out from the skating leg Takeoff: The change of one foot to another, with a smooth flow, and in a timely manner. Various takeoffs include: forward; backwards; and backwards to forward. Pace: Speed, which should remain consistent throughout the figure. Turn: The action of turning the skater’s foot to change from a forward to backward direction, or vice versa. Types of turns include: 3-turn, bracket, rocker, and counter. Cusp: When completing a turn, the skate should leave the line for only the required amount to complete a turn.
|
