Section-By-Section Analysis
HEAD
Strong Points
Head remains in neutral, in line with the spine
Weak Points
Head is rotating a bit with torso over-rotation
Improvement Opportunities
Keep head anchored, looking straight down (see Rotation)
This may not appear if rotation is controlled to lower angle
SPINE ALIGNMENT / CORE
Strong Points
Spine is straight and stable in lateral (saggital) plane
Weak Points
The spine in the lower body is not aligned (in coronal plane):
The lower back is slightly extended (pelvis is tilted forward)
There is a slight flex at each hip joint (thighs are not straight behind torso)
Improvement Opportunities
Work on stretching out the lower body – level pelvis, straight thighs, using the ‘Tippy Toes’ focal point
Posture exercises, hip mobility exercises and glute strength work might be needed.
On the Video Tutorials page view the Improving Parallel Leg Position and the Hip Mobility and Counter-Balanced Foot Position videos.
ROTATION
Strong Points
Hips and shoulders are rotating together, as a solid unit
Weak Points
Both sides, torso is over-rotating – a bit more on right Skate, especially on L breathing
Improvement Opportunities
See comments on Extension
On the Video Tutorials page you may view the Elbow And Over-Rotation and the Correction For Over-Rotation videos.