It's the Little Things That Count - Five Reasons Skaters Should Practice Basic Skating

Practicing basic skating skills

I’ve been observing skating progress accounts on social media over the past couple of years, and I’ve noticed how much focus there is on “achieving” new tricks. 

I haven’t asked why, but I have a hunch it’s the same reason younger skaters and parents fixate on new jumps…

• Landing a new jump feels like a more tangible measure of progress than power, edge quality, or carriage. 
• New jumps are more recognizable than incredible skating skills, and in some ways, easier than beautiful carriage.
• The brain thinks it’s working hard if you just keep at it–sweating and grunting, jumping and falling. 
• Social media applauds you when you show how hard of a skill you’re working on–each harder jump or spin is like an imaginary milestone. 

​Seasoned coaches will agree, though, that it’s even more important to practice the “simple” stuff. 

Below are five reasons why.

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