How to do Backward Crossovers in Ice Skating

Similar to climbing stairs sideways, crossovers involve the continuous transfer of weight from one foot to the other by moving in an "X" formation while ice skating. Backward crossovers are the easiest way to turn corners and to build speed in preparation to perform more elaborate skills.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand with your arms stretched out straight with your left hand in front of your body and your right hand behind your body. Your skates should be side by side.

    • 2

      Put your weight on your left skate and push off with your right. Push straight out from your right hip and keep the leg straight. You will begin to move backwards.

    • 3

      Look over your left shoulder so you can see where you're going. Lift your right foot up to knee height and cross it in front of your left foot.

    • 4

      Place your weight on your left foot.

    • 5

      Pick up your right foot return it next to your left so that you are standing as you did in Step 1.