Level: Foundation
Base exercise: Axel walkthrough
Variation: On a circle from standstill
Purpose: Slowly moving through each position of the axel jump--entry, take-off, follow through, and landing--allows skaters to build confidence and muscle memory while learning their axel. Instead of practicing lots of axel attempts that repeat bad habits, taking the time to practice walkthroughs ultimately helps skaters land their axel faster, more consistently, and with better quality.
Helps with these common mistakes: Fear of the axel, inconsistent axel positions, not knowing or not hitting each jump phase in the axel jump. Not having the muscle memory for the jump.
Associated skating element: Axel
Rotational direction demonstrated: Counterclockwise
Equipment: No equipment