Break in New Figure Skates Faster: Expert Tips
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Importance of Breaking in New Skates
- Swizzles: Feeling Your Edges
- Forward Swizzles
- Backward Swizzles
- Power Pulses: Strengthening Edges
- Outside and Inside Power Pulses
- Crossovers on a Circle: Improving Knee Bend
- Forward Crossovers
- Backward Crossovers
- Choctaws: Transfer and Control
- Half Pumps: Feeling the Edges
- Proper care for New Skates
- Conclusion
Breaking in New Skates: A Guide to Faster Comfort
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Are you a skater who just got a shiny new pair of skates? Congratulations! Getting new skates can be an exciting moment for any skater. However, the breaking-in process is crucial to ensure optimal performance and comfort. In this article, I will guide you through some exercises that can help you break in your new skates faster, allowing you to enjoy your time on the ice with ease.
The Importance of Breaking in New Skates
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When you first get a new pair of skates, they might feel stiff and uncomfortable. This is because the materials need time to loosen up and mold to the shape of your feet. Breaking in your skates not only enhances comfort but also optimizes the performance and stability on the ice. It allows you to feel your edges better, maintain proper knee bend, and execute moves with precision.
Swizzles: Feeling Your Edges
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One of the best exercises to get acquainted with your new skates is swizzles. Swizzles help you feel your edges, especially the inside edges, which can be slightly different due to new blades. Start by performing forward swizzles, where you go forwards and focus on getting nice and deep edges. Similarly, try doing backward swizzles to enhance your knee bend and understand your position on the blades.
Power Pulses: Strengthening Edges
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Power pulses are one-footed twizzles that help you feel both your outside and inside edges. These exercises are essential to build strength on your new skates. Remember to start slowly and go at your own pace. Begin with going outside, inside, outside, inside, trying to reach deep edges to strengthen your muscles and feel the knee bend. Repeat the process on both feet, alternating between forward and backward directions.
Crossovers on a Circle: Improving Knee Bend
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Practicing crossovers on a circle is an excellent way to improve your knee bend and enhance your edge control. Whether you prefer forward or backward crossovers, make sure to focus on getting deep edges without slipping off. This exercise will help you familiarize yourself with the unique feel of your new skates and build confidence in executing crossovers smoothly.
Choctaws: Transfer and Control
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Choctaws are more advanced moves that aid in transferring weight and developing control during edge transitions. Start by going from an outward outside edge to a forward inside edge or vice versa. This exercise allows you to establish control and optimize your balance. Feel free to experiment with different patterns while doing choctaws and have fun exploring your new skates.
Half Pumps: Feeling the Edges
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To get a better sense of your edges and reinforce knee bend, try performing half pumps. Begin by moving backward, doing half pumps on one foot. Aim to shift from the outside edge to the inside edge smoothly. This exercise will help you become more aware of your balance and develop control over your edges. Remember to repeat the process in both directions and also practice forward half pumps.
Proper Care for New Skates
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Taking care of your new skates is essential, especially during the break-in period. One important piece of advice is to take your skates off and re-tie them every 15 minutes. New skates can generate heat and create friction, leading to blisters or foot discomfort. By giving your feet regular breaks, you can prevent these issues and ensure a more enjoyable skating experience.
Conclusion
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Breaking in new skates is a necessary step for skaters to achieve comfort, balance, and control. By following the exercises mentioned in this guide, you can expedite the break-in process and enjoy your new skates to the fullest. Remember to start slowly, focus on your edges and knee bend, and most importantly, have fun on the ice. So lace up your skates, practice these exercises, and skate your way to success!
Highlights
- Breaking in new skates is crucial for comfort and performance on the ice.
- Swizzles and power pulses help feel and strengthen edges.
- Crossovers and choctaws improve knee bend and edge control.
- Half pumps provide awareness of edges and balance.
- Proper care, such as re-tying skates regularly, is necessary during the break-in period.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to break in new skates?
A: The duration varies for each skater, but it typically takes around one to two weeks of regular practice to fully break in new skates.
Q: Can I speed up the break-in process?
A: While there is no miracle method, practicing the recommended exercises consistently can help expedite the break-in process.
Q: Should I get my skates sharpened before breaking them in?
A: It's usually best to break in your skates with the original sharpening. However, if you find them too dull or uneven, it's advisable to have them sharpened by a professional.
Q: Is it normal to experience foot discomfort during the break-in period?
A: Yes, some discomfort is common as your feet adjust to the new skates. Taking regular breaks, re-tying your skates, and wearing proper socks can alleviate discomfort.
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