A Pancake Spin is a striking and challenging upright spin in figure skating, known for its distinctive position and visual appeal. Here’s a detailed description of the elements and technique involved in performing a Pancake Spin:
Basic Position
- Entry: The skater usually enters the spin through a forward inside edge, transitioning to a backward inside edge to start the spin. This can be from a three-turn, mohawk, or directly from a jump.
- Initial Spin: As the skater begins to spin, they assume an upright position with one leg straight and the other bent. The spinning leg is typically the free leg (the leg not on the ice), which will eventually be positioned horizontally.
Body Positioning
- Lowering the Upper Body: The skater lowers their upper body towards the ice while maintaining balance and control over the spin’s center. The back should be straight or slightly arched to maintain a graceful line.
- Free Leg Positioning: The free leg is brought across and placed horizontally over the skating leg. The knee of the free leg is bent, and the thigh is held parallel to the ice. The foot of the free leg is tucked close to the skating leg's knee or thigh.
- Arm Positioning: The skater’s arms are typically extended outwards or held close to the body to assist in maintaining balance and control. One or both arms may also be wrapped around the body or the free leg to enhance stability.
Maintaining the Spin
- Core Strength: A strong core is crucial for maintaining the low, horizontal position of the free leg and keeping the upper body stable. The skater must engage their abdominal and lower back muscles to hold the position without collapsing.
- Edge Control: The skater must have excellent edge control to maintain the spin on the inside edge of the skating foot. Shifting weight or balance incorrectly can cause the spin to wobble or lose speed.
- Rotation Speed: To achieve the desired speed and aesthetic, the skater uses the initial entry momentum and controls the rotation by adjusting the position of their arms and free leg. Tucking the limbs closer to the body generally increases rotation speed.
Exit
- Exiting the Spin: The exit from a Pancake Spin is typically smooth and controlled. The skater will gradually raise their upper body and reposition the free leg to prepare for a transition into the next element, such as a jump or another spin.
Challenges and Execution
- Flexibility and Strength: Performing a Pancake Spin requires a high degree of flexibility, particularly in the hip flexors and lower back, as well as strength in the core and legs to maintain the horizontal free leg position.
- Balance and Coordination: The skater must have excellent balance and coordination to keep the free leg horizontal and close to the skating leg while spinning at high speeds.
- Aesthetic Quality: The visual appeal of a Pancake Spin lies in the clean, horizontal line of the free leg, the smooth rotation, and the controlled, graceful movements of the upper body and arms.
In summary, the Pancake Spin is a complex and visually impressive spin that requires a combination of strength, flexibility, balance, and precise technique. Skaters often practice extensively to perfect the position and maintain the spin’s speed and control throughout its duration.