Loop Turns: Secrets to Clean Gliding and Control

Hi skaters! Today we are tackling one of the most tricky but essential footwork elements — Loop Turns.

Many skaters perform loops mechanically, by force, losing flow. But the truth is, a quality loop is the foundation of your edge control. You can't pass your Moves in the Field tests or skate a high-level step sequence without them.

In this tutorial, I’m teaching you how to perform loops on clean edges, with correct posture and flow. We will cover all 4 variations: Forward, Backward, Inside, and Outside.

The Main Secret: Rhythm and Knee Action The loop "lives" in the knee. The rhythm is always: Down — Up — Down.

Entry (Down): Bend your knee deep to load the edge.

Top (Up): Rise up slightly to release pressure and allow the blade to turn.

Exit (Down): Soften the knee again immediately to maintain flow.

The 4 Variations Explained:

Forward Outside: It’s all about the shoulders. You need strong counter-rotation before the turn. Keep your free leg controlled!

Forward Inside: Don't lean into the circle! Keep your back straight and open your chest against the rotation.

Backward Outside: Trust your heel. Keep your weight slightly back to stay off the toe pick. Look where you are going.

Backward Inside: The key is opening the free hip. You must turn your hips out strongly before the entry to create the necessary torque.

Troubleshooting:

Hitting the toe pick? You are leaning too far forward. Find the "sweet spot" on the blade curve.

Pointy shape? Don't rush the turn. Let the edge draw a round entry curve first.

Watch the video closely for the timing demonstration. Practice hard and let me know in the comments which loop is the hardest for you! See you on the ice!