The broken leg sit spin is a distinctive and visually appealing variation of the basic sit spin in figure skating, characterized by the free leg extended forward and slightly to the side, creating an angled, "broken" appearance. Mastering this spin requires strong core strength, excellent balance, and precise body control.
Prerequisites for the Broken Leg Sit Spin
Before attempting the broken leg sit spin, ensure you have a solid foundation in the following areas:
- Basic Sit Spin: You should be comfortable and stable in a standard sit spin, able to maintain a low seated position with your free leg extended forward.
- Strong Core: A robust core is crucial for holding the deep sit position and controlling the free leg extension.
- Flexibility: Good hip and hamstring flexibility will allow for a more extended and aesthetically pleasing free leg position.
- Centering Skills: The ability to find and maintain the spin's center is fundamental for all advanced spins.
Step-by-Step Guide to Executing the Broken Leg Sit Spin
Performing the broken leg sit spin involves a controlled entry, a deep and stable spin position, and a smooth exit.
1. Entry and Wind-Up
The entry for a broken leg sit spin begins similarly to a standard sit spin, but with an adjustment for the free leg's unique position.
- Initial Setup: Start with a strong skating edge, preparing to wind up for your spin (typically counter-clockwise for most skaters).
- Wind-Up: Build momentum and rotational speed.
- Prepare to Sit: As you initiate the sit spin, focus on bringing your free leg around to a position that, if visualized on a clock face, would be roughly at three o'clock at your side. This means extending it forward and slightly outwards, rather than straight forward.
- Body Position: As you descend into the sit position, try to stay "open" in your hips and shoulders, allowing your chest to face slightly outwards from the direction of rotation. This helps create the characteristic angle of the broken leg spin.
2. The Spin Position
Once you've entered the spin, maintaining the correct posture and leg position is key to its aesthetic and stability.
- Deep Sit: Bend your skating knee deeply, aiming to get your hips as low as possible, ideally below the knee of your skating leg. Your thigh should be nearly parallel to the ice.
- Free Leg Extension: Extend your free leg firmly, keeping it straight but not stiff. The leg should be angled forward and slightly to the side, creating the "broken" appearance. The height of the leg can vary, but generally, it's held a few inches above the ice, parallel to it.
- Visual Aid: Imagine your free leg is aiming towards a point on the ice slightly to your side, not directly in front.
- Torso and Arm Placement:
- Lean slightly forward, keeping your back straight and your core engaged.
- Bring your arms close to your body, typically crossed or held in a compact position, to increase speed and maintain balance. Many skaters prefer to have their arms forward, mirroring the leg.
- Head and Gaze: Keep your head up, looking straight ahead or slightly to the side, spotting a fixed point to help with balance and prevent dizziness.
3. Maintaining Centering and Speed
- Find Your Sweet Spot: Continuously adjust your body weight slightly to find the precise center of the spin. You should feel balanced, with the spin running smoothly on one spot.
- Core Engagement: Keep your abdominal muscles tight throughout the spin to support your lower back and maintain the deep sit position.
4. Exit
A graceful exit completes the spin.
- Preparation: Gradually shift your weight and begin to extend your skating leg while retracting your free leg.
- Rising: Slowly rise out of the deep sit position, bringing your free leg in.
- Finish: Finish the spin upright on your skating leg, often with the free leg extended back in an arabesque or brought in cleanly.
Tips for Success
- Practice Basic Sit Spin: Ensure your regular sit spin is strong, centered, and deep before adding the "broken leg" element.
- Off-Ice Training: Strengthen your core with exercises like planks, crunches, and Russian twists. Improve flexibility with hamstring and hip flexor stretches.
- Use the Wall: Practice the deep sit position and free leg extension at the rink wall to get a feel for the shape without the added challenge of rotation.
- Video Yourself: Film your attempts to identify areas for improvement in posture, leg extension, and centering.
- Seek Coaching: A qualified figure skating coach can provide personalized feedback and drills to help you master this challenging spin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Sitting Low Enough: A common error that makes the spin look less dynamic and harder to balance. Aim for your hips to be lower than your skating knee.
- Stiff Free Leg: While extended, the free leg shouldn't be rigid. A slight give in the knee can sometimes help with the "broken" appearance and make it easier to hold.
- Looking Down: This disrupts balance and can cause dizziness. Keep your head up and eyes focused.
- Poor Centering: If you're traveling across the ice or wobbling, you're not centered. Focus on drawing in your arms and finding your axis.
- Leaning Too Far Back: This can make the spin unstable and difficult to hold. Maintain a slight forward lean from the waist.
| Element | Standard Sit Spin | Broken Leg Sit Spin |
|---|---|---|
| Free Leg | Extended straight forward, parallel to the ice. | Extended forward and slightly to the side, angled ("broken"). |
| Hips | Typically squared to the front. | Often slightly "open" to allow for leg angle. |
| Visual Appeal | Classic, foundational spin. | More dynamic, advanced, and artistic variation. |
The broken leg sit spin adds an elegant and unique element to any figure skater's repertoire. With dedicated practice and attention to detail, you can master this beautiful spin.
