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Recognition of Pairs Elements
Pairs skating is similar in
many respects to singles freeskating, except that 2 skaters
perform together. This adds all sorts of opportunities for
new moves, such as lifts, throws, pair spins, and
"death spirals". Of course, pairs skaters can
perform standard singles elements too, but when they do
them, you'll see both skaters performing the element
simultaneously - usually called "side-by-side"
jumps or spins.
The key characteristic of pairs skating is
"unison" - this means that the skaters must look
like one skater. When they stroke, they should stroke
simultaneously, track closely together, and strive for
similar body lines and stretch. When they perform
side-by-side jumps they should take off, rotate and land at
the same time and generally on parallel paths. When they
perform side-by-side spins it is desired that the rotation
should be at the same rate, and the skaters should be facing
the same direction at the same time.
Shown below are a photo and video demonstrating unison
stroking. Side-by-side jumps &
spins, lifts, throws, pair spins, death spirals are described and
pictured on additional pages.
 |
Here
Jeff and Christina demonstrate backwards stroking
with strong unison. Note in the picture that
both skaters have their legs in similar positions,
and have similar body lean and positions.
(double-click the
picture to see a larger version) |
Thank you to the great skaters who demonstrated these elements. Christina Sinatra & Jeff Charbonneau, and Danielle & Steve Hartsell. Both pairs skated at Detroit SC under the direction of Mitch Moyer.