Turning From Forward to Backward
Turning from forward to backward requires some knowledge of the blade. Figure skating & hockey blades both have a "rocker" - similar to a rocking chair. Using this rocker will help you turn.
To turn from forward to backward, the easiest way is a "Two Foot Turn". Turns such as this are done on curves - it is much easier than trying to force a turn on a straight line. You can use a hockey circle to give yourself a curve to follow.
This first turn will have you turning INTO the circle (if you can't see the middle dot, you'll need to turn the other way!). Hold your arms so that you are hugging the circle (outside arm in front, inside arm in back).
If you can picture the number "3" this next step will make more sense: curving into the circle (first bump of the "3"), rock up to the front of the blade (not the toe pick on figure skates) to the middle of the "3" and then rock back down back the middle of the blade for the second bump of the "3". Bending your knees going in and out of the turn can help with the rocking on the blade.
Once you are backward, the best thing to do with your arms is "check". Checking (not the hockey type!) stops your rotation and keeps you from spinning in circles. To check your arms, you will need to keep them still for the entire turn. For example, if you went into the turn with your right arm in front, when you are backward, you should see your left arm in front. You are basically turning your body between your arms.
Start slowly - standing still is best and build up your speed, a little at at time. The more comfortable you become with your blades and the turn, the faster you will be able to do it!
Happy Turning!
