Training To Do It Wrong

Today I went in to practice and realized that I've got something wrong with my CCW back crossovers. I can't get the legs to scissor properly. The outside leg just doesn't want to cross in front of the inside leg. CW works fine. No problemo.

I gave it a few tries. Sat deeper on the edge. Worked my upper body position. Tried it on a circle. Tried it alternating with CW back cross. No go.

So I stopped practicing them.

I know. I know. There's this mantra of "practice till you get it right." But what if you don't get it right? What good does practice do?

If you fail over and over again, the same way, at the same task, you run the risk of training yourself to do it wrong. Practice is supposed to wire your brain to do a skill, so you can do it fluidly and naturally without thinking about it. Practicing a skill wrong, programs your brain to do it wrong.

Fortunately, I have a lesson tomorrow with Madam Mim. We'll work through it and she'll tell me how to fix it.

This is why we have coaches. Sometimes, we have non obvious reasons why we're failing a skill.  My coach has to look at what I'm doing wrong, and work with me to correct whatever position, edge, or other error I've worked into habit. Then fix it.

And hope I remember it....When I practice.

Things that Scare Me About Figure Skating

People in flip flops crowding the gate--or anywhere near the gate
Cause one trip on my part could result in this
(Don't click on that link unless you're one tough cookie!)

Yes, this the first thought thru my  head every time a coach says:
"You need to try Champion Cords."

Seeing a coach look like this as I skate towards them.
What's coming up behind me!

Witnessing a HORRIBLE fall!

This expression on a judge's face during my test!

AND THE WORST FEAR OF ALL!