To do a back camel spin in figure skating, focus intensely on maintaining the correct body position throughout the spin. This involves precise alignment and control to achieve the signature horizontal spiral pose while rotating backward.
Mastering the back camel spin requires a strong foundation in basic spins and a deep understanding of body alignment. It's a challenging variation of the camel spin where the rotation is backward.
Key Elements of the Back Camel Spin
Executing a successful back camel spin depends on several critical components:
- Entry: A controlled entry that allows for a smooth transition into the spin.
- Position: Achieving and holding the core back camel position – the skating leg is straight, the free leg is extended backward at hip level or higher, and the body is bent forward at the waist, creating a horizontal line with the free leg. The arms are typically extended to help balance and control the spin. As highlighted in instructional content like "Lessons With Eye Katie," focusing on the Position is paramount.
- Rotation: Maintaining steady backward rotation on the back outside edge of the skating foot.
- Exit: A controlled and graceful exit from the spin.
Step-by-Step Approach
While specific entries vary, here's a general breakdown focusing on the core elements, emphasizing Position:
- Preparation: Gain speed and execute a controlled entry maneuver (e.g., a forward inside edge approach or a mohawk).
- Entry into Spin: Transfer weight onto the spinning foot, entering the back outside edge. Your body should start to coil or prepare for the extension.
- Achieving Position: As you begin rotating backward, extend your skating leg fully. Simultaneously, lift and extend your free leg directly behind you, striving to get it level with your hip or higher, parallel to the ice. Bend forward from the waist, keeping your back straight and parallel (or slightly above) the ice. This is the core Position you must hold.
- Tip: Focus on pushing your hips forward and extending your free leg straight back, avoiding twisting or leaning to the side.
- Arm Position: Use your arms to help stabilize and control your rotation. Common arm positions include extending them out to the sides, reaching forward, or holding one arm forward and one back. Experiment to find the balance point for your Position.
- Holding the Position: Concentrate on maintaining a strong, stable core and the precise Position of your free leg, body, and arms as you rotate. Small adjustments can be made with your arms and shoulders.
- Spinning: Continue rotating backward on the back outside edge. The speed and control come from the entry and the tightness of your rotation while holding the Position.
- Exit: To exit, typically bring your free leg down and your body upright smoothly, transitioning out of the spin onto an edge.
Important Considerations
- Flexibility: Good hamstring and back flexibility is crucial for achieving the horizontal Position.
- Core Strength: A strong core is essential for maintaining stability and control in the bent-over, extended Position.
- Balance: Practice balancing on the back outside edge while extended. Off-ice drills can help.
- Coaching: Learning a back camel spin is best done under the guidance of a qualified figure skating coach who can provide personalized feedback on your Position and technique.
Mastering the back camel spin is a progression. Start by working on the entry and achieving a basic horizontal position before striving for height and control. Remember that focusing on the correct and stable Position is the key to a well-executed back camel spin.
