The topic of ankle strength begins Krissy’s discussion in this video. A skater needs a good flex for quick starts but strength to avoid being “flimsy” on power turns.
In regards to quick starts, ankle flex is important to be able to lean forward and avoid being stiff which pushes the hips too far back. Flex also enables the skater to have a strong first push onto their toe. It’s almost like they’re falling forward on their toes for the first few pushes until they gain speed and begin using more of the blade.
Although ankle flex isn’t usually mentioned for power turns, Krissy does address the fact that ankle strength can help maintain the proper balance on the middle of the blade. Younger skaters can even preform the power turn exercise using only one foot on an outside edge to help with the correct positioning.
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