How to Do the Three-Turn Exercise in Figure Skating

The three-turn is a basic figure skating turn that you use to change direction on the ice. Unlike the Mohawk turn, which also changes the skater's direction, you do not change feet, but simply spin and use the opposite edge of your blade. You can do three-turns while skating either forward or backwards.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Begin gliding on the inside edge of one skate, with the opposite knee bent and foot lifted off the ice.
2. Keep your back straight with one arm pointed out in front of your torso and the other straight out behind you. If you are skating on your right foot, your right arm will be in front of you. If you are skating on your left, your left arm will be in front.
3. Bring your skating foot onto the flat (the center) of the blade and tuck your bent free leg into your skating leg.
4. Twist your hips in the direction of the circle you are skating. If you are using your right foot and skating on the right inside edge, you will thrust your right hip forward to initiate the turn.
5. Make a 180-degree turn so that you are facing the opposite direction.
6. Continue gliding backwards, keeping the same arm in front of your torso and the same arm behind. You will remain on the same skating foot, but changing directions and using the outside edge of the blade.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your back and neck straight when performing a three-turn. Your hips should do most of the work.