What Is a Ballet Jump in Figure Skating?

Ballet

Ballet jumps are one of the most iconic and beautiful elements of figure skating. They have been part of the sport for centuries, and have become an integral part of modern day figure skating competitions.

Ballet jumps are defined as jumps which involve a skater taking off from the ice, rotating in the air, and then landing on their feet with both legs extended. The jump can be done in various positions, including one foot, two feet, crossfoot, and split. The skater can also vary their speed and height depending on the type of jump they’re doing.

A ballet jump requires a great deal of strength and flexibility from a skater. To perform a successful ballet jump, a skater must have strong legs to generate enough power for takeoff, as well as great balance to stay upright once airborne. Skaters must also be able to control their body position while spinning in the air to avoid injury when landing.

The most common ballet jumps used in figure skating are: Axel Jump – The Axel jump is the only single-rotation jump currently accepted into competitive figure skating programs. It involves one full rotation in the air before landing on two feet with both legs extended. Salchow Jump – The Salchow jump is named after its inventor Ulrich Salchow and involves taking off from the back inside edge of one foot and rotating one-and-a-half times before landing on two feet. Lutz Jump – The Lutz jump is named after its inventor Alois Lutz and involves taking off from an outside edge with a full rotation before landing on two feet.Loop Jump– The Loop Jump is named after its inventor Gustav Loop and involves taking off from an outside edge with one-and-a-half rotations before landing on two feet. Flip Jump – The Flip Jump is named after its inventor Peter Krickerl and involves taking off from an outside edge with one full rotation before landing on two feet.

Ballet jumps are essential elements for competitive figure skaters to master if they want to reach higher levels of competition. They require both physical strength and technical skill, making them challenging but rewarding elements for any skater to learn.

Conclusion: Ballet jumps are iconic elements in figure skating that have been part of the sport for centuries.

They involve taking off from the ice, spinning in the air, then landing on two feet with both legs extended. Commonly used ballet jumps include Axel Jumps, Salchow Jumps, Lutz Jumps, Loop Jumps and Flip Jumps – all requiring different levels of physical strength and technical skill that make them challenging but rewarding elements for any competitive level figure skater to master.