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The Push Phase
Last week, I explained how to improve a skater’s basic body alignment and edge control. Now let’s look at technical issues related to the push phase of skating.
Note: The below discussion relates to ‘classic technique’, which takes its roots from ice speedskating.
3) Direction of Push
Many components of speedskating technique are variable. This means that the precise execution of a given technical element has a range of application based on a number of factors. The direction of push is a perfect example of this concept. For example, from a standing start the initial direction of push has to be straight backwards in order to accelerate the body forward. As the skater continues to accelerate the push remains slightly rearward. However, as speed increases the direction of push becomes progressively more sideways. Once at cruising speed, it is imperative that the skater focus on pushing straight to the side. The problem is that there is often a big difference between what an individual thinks he or she is doing and what they are actually doing. This brain/body disparity is common, and is best corrected through direct feedback and video analysis.
The reality is that while coaches should teach a push straight to the side, the position of the foot at the end of the push (at moderate to high speed) is approximately half a frame-length behind the support/gliding leg. However, it is important to note that this is a result of the body’s natural extension of the hip. Also, this slight ‘falling behind’ of the skate does not occur until the very end of the push. Since the majority of pushing force is developed in the first third of the stride, it important that the push start off on the right foot (no pun intended). The initiation of pushing force must be directed straight to the side.
One thing skaters seem to have difficulty with is the transition between extremes. The change in direction of push from zero to cruising speed is a good example. To practice and perfect this important attribute, try performing gradual 100m acceleration repeats from a standing start to near-top speed.
4) Toeing out at the end of the push
Pushing force should be applied evenly using all wheels. When the pushing leg reaches full extension all wheels simultaneously lift off the ground. The skate then moves rearward to initiate the recovery action. Many skaters display excessive toeing out, which is characterized by rotating the foot and/or thigh to the outside at the moment of skate lift-off, causing the toe of the skate to point outwards.
The hip flexor muscles are key stabilizers for push, recovery and glide. There should be no external rotation of the thigh at the end of the push. This results in substantial power loss during the final ‘snap’ of the push. Many skaters seem to think that toeing out is simply an aesthetic issue. The truth, however, is that toeing out is often a symptom of improper body weight distribution, misdirected push, and/or lack of control in the hip muscles. One effective corrective measure is to tell the skate to push ‘more from the heel’. This is an over-exaggeration fix which tends to help the skater prevent the leg/skate from rotating to the outside.
opyright © 2004 Barry Publow. All Rights Reserved.
