Figure skating requires significant strength and flexibility, so it’s important to train your body regularly off the ice. To improve your performances and progress to higher levels, your core strength has to be on point. To learn more about core training, consider the following guide.

Why Core Strength Is Important

The term “core” refers to your midsection and includes your transverse abdominis, erector spinae, obliques, and lower lats. These muscles stabilize your body, helping you make strong and coordinated movements.

In figure skating, you need core strength to complete high jumps and spins while keeping the body upright. Without adequate core strength, you may have difficulty maintaining balance and good posture, which could put you at risk of injury.

How to Train Your Core

Planks are one of the most effective exercises for building core strength. To perform this movement, get into a push-up position and put your forearms flat on the floor. Keep your torso straight and your abdominal muscles tight. Take slow breaths and stay in this position for as long as you can.

Hanging leg raises can also improve your core strength and improve your figure skating. With your hands shoulder-width apart, hang from a pull-up bar and lift both of your knees until they’re at a 90-degree angle with your torso. Hold the position for a few seconds and stick your legs out below you.

Bridges are a third option to try. Lie on your back with your knees bent and abdominal muscles tight. Lift your hips off the floor until they’re aligned with your knees and shoulders. Hold the position for a few breaths.

If your child wants to try figure skating, turn to the professionals at World Championship Program in Palatine, IL. They offer an in-home figure skating program for people of all ages and provide personalized attention to each student. These skilled instructors will teach your child how to perform a wide range of movements on an ice skating rink, including singles and pairs, and support them each step of the way. For more information about their services, call (872) 221-3557.