How to Do a Scratch Spin in Figure Skating

The scratch spin, also called the "blur spin," is a classic move in figure skating. Traditionally performed at the end of programs, the spin needs great speed to create a blurry effect. Perform it with perfect execution to "wow" the crowd every time.

Instructions

1. Stand on the ice in your skates completely upright with your arms slightly outstretched in front of you. Slowly extend your free leg forward toward your free side.

2. Pull your free leg in front of your body gradually. Push it down and cross it over your skating leg. Gradually increase the proximity of your free leg to your skating leg. Pull the free leg in tightly to create a faster scratch spin.

3. Bring both of your arms in close to your body at the same time. Push them down toward your hips or raise them up above your head during the scratch spin. Keep your arms over your shoulders if you raise them up. Keep your arms close to your body if you pull them down. Pull your arms in tightly to increase the speed of the spin.

4. Release out of the spin. If spinning on your left foot, touch your right foot down on the ice and shift your weight to it. Bend both knees when the right foot touches the ice and push yourself backward with your left foot, using the inside edge of your skate. Keep your arms in a neutral position and don't allow them to rotate toward the back. If spinning on your right foot, do the opposite.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your eyes level. Don't focus on anything in particular. Look straight ahead and think about the spin.

• Bring your legs and arms in tightly, but gradually, to avoid losing control of the spin. The faster and more controlled the scratch spin is, the more impressive it looks.

• It is always best to learn figure skating skills from an experienced coach. All figure skating skills come with risk of injury. Attempt them at your own risk.

Resources

• See Nancy Kerrigan perform the scratch spin.