How to Complete a Lutz

The lutz jump originated in Austria in 1913, when Alois Lutz initially performed the jump. During that time, many ice skaters took the lutz to an extreme level by practicing it in opposite rotation of their other performance jumps. Today, the lutz is practiced in the same rotation as the other jumps, but the bar is still high. It's an incredibly difficult jump and many an ice skater has taken a tumble upon execution. Its characteristic movements include using the toe pick as an assist to the jump, entering from the back outside edge of the ice skate and landing on the back outside edge of the opposite foot. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Complete a Technically Beautiful Lutz

1. Decide on the type of rotation to be used. Lutz jumps are performed in both counterclockwise and clockwise motions on the ice.

2. Perform a wide arc on the left back outside edge (counterclockwise lutz) towards the corner of the ice rink. You'll do the opposite for a clockwise lutz.

3. Maintain a long, sweeping glide. This will assist you with the deep left outside edge needed to complete a lutz and it helps to build your rotation.

4. Reach backwards with your right arm and foot simultaneously. You vault into the air using your toe pick, or the teeth at the front end of the ice skate.

5. Perform a complete rotation in the air. Landing occurs on the right back outside edge of your ice skate.

Add on to Your Lutz

6. Use a footwork entry, especially during performance. The mohawk or 3 turn add several distinct steps prior to the lutz and both enable you to enter the lutz from the center, rather than the corner, of the rink.

7. Defy the odds. The lutz is one of the most complicated jumps in figure skating, due to its counter-rotation upon entry. Most skaters are not able to avoid veering off towards the outside edge, usually at the last second before the jump.

8. Deepen your weight on the outside edge. This is crucial if you plan to build up to a double or triple lutz.

9. Try to break an historical record. Not a single figure skater has been able to successfully land a smooth quadruple lutz in competition.

Tips & Warnings

• The lutz is not seen as an appropriate jump for newer figure skaters. It's best utilized in the advanced stages of skating.
• In the beginning, prepare for bruises from falling on the ice by wearing extra padding or durable leggings.

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