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The Toe Loop is the second jump most figure skaters learn, right after the Waltz Jump. Unlike a Waltz Jump, which is a half-rotation jump launched from the forward direction, the toe loop is a full-rotation jump launched from a backwards direction of travel.
A toe loop is a toe-assisted jump. For a counter-clockwise jump, it starts with the right foot on a back outside edge, followed by planting the left toe pick, up into the rotation, and landed again on the right back outside edge.
Steps
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Begin by skating on a right back outside edge, with the skating knee deeply bent. Clockwise jumpers should start on a left back outside edge, and should reverse or mirror the rest of these directions.
- Note that many jumpers find it difficult to simply start the jump from this position --- see the tips below regarding "Jump Preparation".
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Extend your arms into "launch position." The left arm should be straight in front of you; the right arm should be extended at the "5 o'clock" position. Both palms should face downward.Advertisement
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Reach back with your left leg; extend it and point the toe down. Plant the toe pick firmly in the ice, preferably just to the right of the arc of travel of your other blade. Be sure to reach back; you don't want to trip yourself.
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Launch the jump:
- Do not try to make yourself rotate, as it tends to cause an error known as a "toe waltz." The rotation will come naturally. Do imagine using your left leg like a pole vault.
- As the launch happens, both your legs will end up with knees straight. Pull your hands together towards your chest, but leave the upper arms and elbows extended to the 12-o'clock and 5-o'clock positions. (Imagine your arms are two blades of a pocketknife, and you're closing it.)
- Rotate a full 360-degree revolution in the air. This is not as difficult as it seems, once you've properly launched the jump!
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Land on the right foot, on a back outside edge. As you land, extend your arms fully to the sides in normal skating position. Your right knee should be bent and your left leg extended strongly. Arch your back, keep good skating posture, and try to remain on the back outside edge. Smile broadly -- it contributes to your confidence level!
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There are many ways of preparing to enter the jump. You may find that some ways make it easier for you to launch the jump properly and confidently. Here are a few...
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Right inside 3-turn entrance:
- Begin by skating forward on your left foot.
- Put your right foot near the inside of your left ankle.
- Extend the arms into launch position.
- Step forward onto your right foot and execute a right inside 3-turn. [3-turn citation required.]
- End the turn with the right knee bent deeply, the arms in launch position, and the left leg extended.
- Plant the left toe pick and launch the jump.
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Closed mohawk-turn entrance:
- Begin by skating forward on your left foot.
- Step onto your right foot.
- Immediately execute a mohawk, to end skating on a left back inside edge.
- Do a backwards skating stroke. This puts you on a right back outside edge.
- Do the jump.
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Tips
- Practice doing this off the ice in slow motion.Thanks
- Watch other skaters who have truly mastered this jump. Pay attention to the things they do.Thanks
- Don't look down at the ice! It throws off your center of gravity. Keep your head level.Thanks
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Warnings
- Skating can be hazardous. Jumps and other difficult elements should not be attempted if you are not stable and comfortable in skates. Body awareness and control are essential.Thanks
- Watch for others when you practice any jump. Plan ahead for your jump landing and exit. Since a Toe Loop is launched and landed traveling backwards, your free leg and the blade can be a hazard to oncoming skaters.Thanks
- This wikihow entry, or any other, is no substitute for consultation with a qualified professional skating instructor. A coach not only helps you stay safe, but is also a great encourager and can help prevent you from developing bad habits.Thanks
- NEVER try anything that is significantly above your skating level. A Toe Loop should only be attempted after mastering forward and backward skating, and becoming comfortable with performing the Waltz Jump.Thanks
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