How to Spin in Figure Skating

To learn how to spin in figure skating, start with a two-foot spin. Two-foot spins allows you to get the feel of rotating, but you don't have to balance on one foot. This spin is only used as a teaching tool for more advanced spins and is usually not used in figure skating routines.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stand or glide on the ice with both feet together.

2. Keep your knees slightly bent and your back and neck straight.

3. Extend one arm out to the side and the other straight in front of you. If you are going to turn to the right, put your right arm in front. If you are going to turn to the left, put your left arm in front.

4. Swing your arms in the direction you intend to spin. Once you swing your arms, tuck them in to your chest side-by-side or cross them across your chest.

5. Spin on the ice, keeping your feet together.

6. Open your arms out to the side to stop the spin.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to begin two-foot spins while standing in place and move onto spinning from a two-foot gliding position.
• Once you are comfortable spinning with two feet, you can move onto a one-foot spin. A one-foot spin is similar to a two-foot spin, but with one skate lifted off the ice and tucked in close to your calf.
• Do not attempt to learn figure skating spins without a partner or coach. Spinning properly on the ice requires correct posture and form. A partner or coach can help correct any mistakes early and make spinning easier.

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