How to Skate a Figure 8

The original focus of ice skating was an intent to carve certain shapes or figures into the ice, such as the figure 8. All later existing ice skating patterns derived from the original figure 8. Considered to be the simplest ice skating pattern, the figure 8 is widely known and has even been incorporated into other sports like basketball. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Skate a Proper Figure 8

1. Keep your blades on the ice. In the figure 8, your ice skate blades will remain on the ice at all times, though you will alternate leaning your weight from one foot to the other.

2. Lean your weight to the outside edge of one ice skate. The other foot should be touching the leading foot.

3. Switch feet. Once you've completed one of the two necessary circles that comprise a figure 8, you'll need to finish the figure by completing a second circle.

4. Pick your back foot up and place it in front after you complete the first circle. Now lead with your new foot in front and remember to lean your weight to the outside edge of the skate as you complete the figure 8.

5. Check your work. You should see an exact replica of the number "8" on the surface of the ice.

6. Learn the art of falling with grace. As you begin to skate a figure 8, the action of leaning to the side of each foot will likely throw off your balance. If you fall, just get back up and try again.

Prevent Dizziness When You Skate

1. Keep an eye on the pros. Figure skaters who've been at it for several years often reveal little tricks and techniques if you watch them skate on a regular basis.

2. Practice spotting. Newer figure skaters are advised to focus on one spot, such as a wall, before entering a strong spin or figure 8 executed at a high speed.

3. Let go of spotting when the time is right. Eventually, you will gain enough experience with skating patterns that you won't need to adjust your eyes to the spinning motion anymore.

4. Keep your skates laced tightly. Loose skates can contribute to feelings of unsteadiness, especially as you complete elaborate skating patterns where your weight shifts throughout the skate.

5. Practice consistently, several times a week. By maintaining a regular practice and slowly increasing your speed, your body should begin to naturally adjust to the movements of ice skating.

Tips & Warnings

• Even dancers are known to use the famous spotting method to combat dizziness.

• Take a break from skating if you feel nauseous or ill.