1. Forward Crossovers
A forward crossover is a basic movement in both figure skating and hockey skating. Forward crossovers are used to build forward momentum while executing directional control.
Start with your feet parallel. Bend your right knee and push your right foot away from your left, using the inside edge of your right skate. Straighten your leg to pull your feet back to shoulder-width apart. This will etch a small half-circle design on the ice. Practice this motion until you feel comfortable. Then begin lifting your right foot off the ice while it is at its maximum distance away from your left foot. Balance your weight on the outside edge of your left skate and lift your right foot up and cross it over your left. From this position, flex your left foot and raise it from the ice, bringing it behind your right foot to set your feet back to parallel and start the whole motion over again.
2. The Three Turn
The "three turn" is performed while gliding on one foot. It may be easier to first attempt the turn on the same foot as your dominant hand. This turn earned its name because it leaves the shape of a "3" etched onto the ice when performed correctly.
The motion employed to execute the turn is a quick swivel of the hips. Take off on a one-foot glide, leaning on the inside edge of your standing foot with your weight balanced between the middle and the ball of your foot. Hold your arms out to the sides for added balance.
As the weight on the inside edge of your skate begins to turn you back towards the direction you started, swivel your hips. This motion will create the middle point on the "3" and you will find yourself skating backwards on your outside edge. This turn can be performed starting on either foot and on either edge.
3. Mohawk Turns
Mohawk turns let you change direction using both feet. They are useful in figure skating if you want to switch standing feet before you take off for a jump. For hockey skating. they are faster than three turns.
Start skating forward on the inside edge of your right foot with your knee deeply bent. Your left foot will be in the air behind you. Place the heel of your left skate at the instep of your right foot. Pivot your balance to the left foot, using the inside edge on the left skate to continue your momentum while cutting through the ice. Lift your right foot and complete the rotation of the turn.
his turn can be performed starting on either foot and on either edge.
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