How to Do Forward Stroking in Figure Skating

Figure skaters often employ forward stroking to move across the ice. It is a side-to-side movement, using both skates to propel a skater forward. Beginner skaters start by mastering swizzles and glides before advancing to this more graceful technique. Skaters also use forward stroking to transition from other advanced techniques during a routine.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stand on the ice with your feet together and your back straight.

2. Extend your arms out to the sides for balance and bend your knees over your feet.

3. Push off with one foot, using the inside blade of your skate. Keep your skating leg in the original starting position, with your skate pointed forward and your knee bent over your foot.

4. Extend your pushing leg out behind you once your skate has left the ice and you are gliding on your skating foot.

5. Point your toe on your extended leg and turn your knee out to the side. Keep your arms out to the sides for balance and the knee on your skating leg bent.

6. Return your skate to the ice so that your feet are together again and your knees are bent. You should be in your original starting position, but gliding across the ice on both skates.

7. Repeat the push, extend and glide with the other foot.

Tips & Warnings

• The toe pick should not be used when forward stroking. Always push with the inside blade of your skates to propel your body forward.

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