spin

ice skating

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

In ice skating, a spin is a rapid turning motion on the ice, typically performed on one foot. Skaters use spins as a way to demonstrate agility and control, often incorporating them into routines.1

There are various types of spins:
* Sit spin: Executed while sitting on one skate, with the other leg extended.2
* Layback spin: Performed upright, with the skater arching their back and dropping their head towards the ice.3
* Camel spin: Characterized by one leg extended parallel to the ice.3
* Scratch spin: An upright spin where the skater may use their toe pick for balance.3

Skaters create centrifugal force by pulling in their arms and free leg, allowing them to spin rapidly. Combination spins involve changing feet and positions during the spin. Spins are a key element in figure skating, alongside jumps and footwork.34

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figure skating
Spins
Spins are generally performed on either the back outside or the back inside edge of the blade. A sit spin is done in sitting position, with the body supported by the leg that controls the spin as the free leg extends beside the bent…
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Spins are generally performed on either the back outside or the back inside edge of the blade. A sit spin is done in sitting position, with the body supported by the leg that controls the spin as the free leg extends beside the bent…
Read More