Waltz Jump

Introduction

The waltz jump is considered an entry-level jump in figure skating, yet it serves as a foundational building block for more advanced jumps like the axel. Though it is a relatively simple maneuver, understanding the mechanics and precise execution of each phase of the jump allows for proper skill development. This tutorial provides a step-by-step breakdown of the movement, focusing on the scientific and biomechanical principles that govern its execution.

Understanding the Basic Phases of the Waltz Jump

The waltz jump can be divided into four major phases: the setup (entry), takeoff, flight, and landing. Each phase involves specific body positioning, force application, and motion coordination that are critical for executing the jump correctly. We will examine each of these phases in detail.

The Waltz Jump: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Step 1: Entry and Setup

Before executing the jump, the skater prepares their body and momentum through a series of preparatory movements. The skater enters the waltz jump from a forward outside edge on the left foot.

Body Alignment: The skater's body should be positioned upright with the core engaged, maintaining a neutral spine. The shoulders are parallel to the hips, and the arms are extended slightly outward from the torso to aid in balance and control. The head remains aligned with the chest, facing forward.
Skating Edge: The left skate is placed on the outside edge, meaning the pressure is applied to the outer side of the blade. This edge ensures proper trajectory for the jump. The left knee is slightly bent to lower the center of gravity and prepare for the explosive movement that will follow. The right foot is held off the ice, slightly behind the body, with the knee bent at approximately 90 degrees. This position should be maintained while gliding forward.
Momentum and Glide: Forward momentum is generated during the glide phase. The skater should build speed using crossovers or a strong push-off prior to entering the jump. However, excessive speed should be avoided to maintain control. The key is to manage horizontal momentum so that the energy can be directed into the vertical takeoff.

Step 2: Takeoff

The takeoff is the most critical phase of the waltz jump, where the conversion of horizontal momentum into vertical lift occurs. This phase requires precise timing and coordination of the lower body, core, and arms.

Pre-Takeoff Position: As the skater prepares to leave the ice, they begin by extending the right leg forward in a sweeping arc motion. The right foot leads the rotation and is the first limb to initiate the jump. At this point, the skater's torso remains stable, and the arms are held slightly extended outward to facilitate balance.
Vertical Force Application: The waltz jump relies on the push-off from the left leg to achieve the necessary vertical lift. As the skater transfers weight from the right foot onto the left outside edge, the left knee bends deeper. The skater then explosively straightens the left knee and ankle joint in a coordinated manner, applying downward force into the ice. This downward force generates a reaction force (in accordance with Newton's third law of motion), which propels the skater vertically.
Upper Body Coordination: During the takeoff, the arms play a pivotal role in managing angular momentum. The left arm leads the rotation by sweeping slightly inward as the skater prepares for the rotational component of the jump. The right arm remains extended outward, aiding the forward arc motion of the right leg. The head remains forward-facing, aligned with the body's center of mass.
Timing of the Takeoff: Timing is crucial to achieving a smooth takeoff. The skater must coordinate the explosive push-off with the sweep of the right leg and the arms. The takeoff phase typically lasts only a fraction of a second, but improper timing can result in under-rotation or loss of balance during the flight.

Step 3: Flight

Once airborne, the skater enters the flight phase. This phase involves maintaining balance, controlling rotational forces, and preparing for the landing.

Body Position in Flight: In the air, the skater's body should form a compact position to optimize rotational efficiency. The skater's arms come closer to the body, and the right leg, which was extended forward during the takeoff, is now positioned diagonally across the body. The left leg follows closely behind the right leg, creating a compact and aerodynamic form.
The torso remains upright, and the core muscles are engaged to stabilize the body during flight. The head stays upright, with the skater's gaze focused on a fixed point ahead to maintain orientation and spatial awareness. Any deviation from this alignment could disrupt the rotational axis and cause a wobble or imbalance during landing.
Rotation and Angular Momentum: Although the waltz jump only involves a half-turn (180 degrees) of rotation, proper angular momentum must still be generated to ensure a smooth rotational transition. Angular momentum is primarily achieved through the sweeping motion of the right leg during the takeoff, with the arms and core aiding in the rotational motion.
In accordance with the principle of conservation of angular momentum, the skater's body naturally rotates once airborne. By bringing the arms and legs closer to the body, the skater reduces their moment of inertia, causing an increase in rotational speed. Since the waltz jump does not require rapid rotation, the skater can maintain a relatively open body position compared to jumps requiring multiple rotations.

Step 4: Landing

The landing phase is the final stage of the waltz jump and requires precision to prevent instability or falls. The skater transitions from flight to landing by absorbing the impact forces generated upon contact with the ice.

Preparing for Landing: As the skater nears the end of the jump, they begin to open their body slightly to prepare for a controlled landing. The right leg, which was crossed in front of the body, extends outward and downward in preparation for contact with the ice.
Point of Contact: The right skate blade makes contact with the ice first, specifically the back outside edge of the blade. This edge placement is essential for a smooth transition into the glide following the jump. The left leg remains off the ice, extended behind the body to maintain balance and form.
Absorbing Impact Forces: Upon landing, the skater bends the right knee to absorb the impact. This action is critical in dissipating the vertical forces that result from the jump. If the knee remains too rigid, the skater risks losing balance or incurring injury.
Upper Body Positioning: The arms remain extended outward, aiding in balance. The torso remains upright, and the skater's core continues to be engaged. Proper weight distribution over the right foot ensures stability, and the left foot trails in a poised position, off the ice.

Conclusion

The waltz jump is a fundamental figure skating maneuver that requires precise coordination of body mechanics and an understanding of the physics involved. By breaking down the jump into its constituent phases—setup, takeoff, flight, and landing—we can see how each element contributes to the overall execution of the jump. Mastery of the waltz jump lays the groundwork for learning more advanced jumps with greater rotation and complexity. Each phase must be approached with an understanding of the forces involved, body positioning, and movement timing to ensure successful performance.