SKATE TIP OF THE WEEK
Presented by Bont Skates
Inline secrets from the world's top skaters and coaches

This week's tip:
The Skater's Windup

By Randy Plett
Nov. 9, 2007

Imagine a pitcher winding up to throw a fast ball but stopping his arm swing at the top of his stroke before releasing the ball. The result would be a pitch with no power or speed.

No pitcher would do this, yet many skaters do what amounts to the same thing when they set their skates down on the pavement after finishing a stroke. Instead of continuing the momemtum of their recovery loop (which is similar to a pitcher's windup), they simply place their skate passively down next to the other. The result is wasted energy.

Fortunately, it's not difficult to fix this problem. Just follow these steps:

1.) Make sure your stroke includes a recovery loop. After you finish your push, arc your foot back behind your body tracing a quarter circle in the air.

2.) At the end of your recovery loop, drive your knee and leg forward as you set your skate down, as though kicking a ball. This will give your skate speed as you starts its glide phase.

Timing is critical. It's important to shift your weight to the recovery foot as it drives through to start its glide. The key is to practice at slow speeds. It's also helpful to practice the motion with your skates off.

Once you get the hang of the "skater's windup," you will be surprised at the difference it makes in your skating. Suddenly, you'll find it easier to generate speed with less effort.

...

Randy Plett is one of the top pro veteran skaters in North America. He started inline skating in 1994 and has been a member of the Bont North America team for five years. He also skates short- and long-track ice, which, he says, are great for cross-training and to help him refine his technique. He lives in Winnipeg with his wife and three children. He owns Winnipeg's Red River Speed skate shop and works part-time as an oncology nurse.

• Red River Speed
• Bont Skates

Related reading:

• Skate Tip of the Week Archive
• Beginners Guide to Outdoor Racing
• Beginners Guide to Inline Skating