Stefan Lindemann learned this the hard way. Stefan's last placement at a World Championship was 18th! So what did he do differently this time to earn himself a bronze medal at the 2004 world's? Stefan said he had a fresh surge of energy at the start of the season which for him began in May. "I started doing bike training with the speed skaters...between 70 and 110 kilometers a day".
Biking is a great way to improve cardiovascular tone and stamina. I also bike most mornings, taking hills that are getting easier each time. I understand where Lindemann is getting his fresh surge of energy. Our next issue will take us into the fall to explore the cross training advantage of cycling for power and endurance in skating. You'll get a look at the latest top of the line cycling products from Terry Precision Cycling, LOOK, SIDI, Ciclo Master, Easton, Enervit, Pearl Izumi, Shebest, Athleta and much more. If you wish to make a smooth & comfortable transition from the ice to cycling for sports conditioning, don't miss our next issue!
There are also off ice exercises to improve your expression of presentation. I spoke with Paula Wagener, an elite choreographer who has worked with both gymnasts and ice skaters. I took Wagener's "Artistry In Motion" class at the 2003 USFSA Coach's Workshop. It was the only class set to music and Wagener encouraged us all to express ourselves through specific motions in time with the music. Her class was so liberating! It also taught us that skating is not simply a linear activity. There are movements incorporating highs and low positions, jazz hands, clenching, etc. Choreography is the master translator of dance movement. You may not understand the music or the language it is sung in, but the choreography will translate that music into your language. Wagener has a full understanding of this as her mother was a ballet dancer who started her own school and her father was a sculptor. Wagener attended the American Ballet Theater School of Ballet and Evanston School of Ballet. Wagner has also studied abroad in London and spent time working with the Royal Danish Ballet. However it wasn't until 1979 that she began teaching ballet to gymnasts and ice skaters at Northbrook Academy. Although Wagener has worked with many top level coaches, she also enjoys working with younger coaches and their skaters. If you'd like to learn more about Wagener's Artistry in Motion seminars, visit on-line at: http://www.figureskatinginc.com
