How to Do Forward Crossovers in Figure Skating

Competitive figure skaters use the forward crossover to lead or connect other steps such as jumps, turns and spins. A skater must keep his skates on the correct edge and center his weight to keep momentum going and properly perform a forward crossover.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand on the edge of a hockey circle, usually found in the middle of the ice rink. Place the left outside edge of your skate on the circle and place your right skate parallel to your left so that you are facing in a counter-clockwise direction.

    • 2

      Keep your body in line with your feet, with a straight back and neck. Bend your knees.

    • 3

      Extend your right arm directly in front of your torso and your left arm behind you with palms facing down towards the ice.

    • 4

      Push forward with your right skate, using the inside edge of the blade. Lift and extend your right leg behind you. The left outside edge of your left skate should remain on the hockey circle while you glide.

    • 5

      Cross your right skate over your left and place it on the ice so that the right outside edge of your right skate is next to the left outside edge of your left skate.

    • 6

      Slide your left skate back, keeping your weight on the left outside edge. Bring your left foot back up to a parallel position. You should now be in your original starting position, but gliding around the hockey circle on the left outside edge of your left skate and the right inside edge of your right skate.