Natural and Learned Talent
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My daughter loves skating. She takes a class once per week, a 30 minute private once per week, and we try to get her to a practice skate once per week. She's 8 years old and at Basic 7 level after two years. I'm happy with her progress, but it is obvious that there is no "Natural" talent there. She always manages to learn the elements required, but there is no "grace" in them. She's not flexible and just doesn't use her upper body correctly. No matter how many times her coach tells her to put her arms and head up she does not do it. It seems she is simply not capable of using her legs and arms at the same time. This problem is most apparent during spins where she doesn't use her arms at all. I'm wondering if this kind of "grace" and "coordination" is something that typically comes later, like when they begin to put moves together a in routine or should she be able to handle this at her current age and level? Thanks for your Column, it's very interesting and helpful. Kathy |
Linda says:
It is interesting to see the difference in skaters and notice how some seem to be so much more graceful and co-ordinated. I think part of that may be a 'natural' talent, but a part of it is also learned. You may want to look into dance classes especially ballet.
Most of the co-ordinated, graceful skaters have taken years of dance always including ballet. If ballet classes are not offered at the rink, there may be a dance school nearby. If your daughter is going through periods of rapid growth, the co-ordination will be that much more difficult for her. It may be part of the reason many skaters seem to improve as they get older. It is very difficult for a skater whose body is growing/changing. It is great that your daughter is so enthusiastic.
Amanda'sMom says:
Every child progresses as his/her own pace. But as a skater matures, so does his/her coordination. Many top skaters have had years of dance and/or "Off-Ice Ballet" classes. If your rink/club offers off-ice ballet classes, consider enrolling your daughter in these classes as these will help in her coordination as well as her flexibility.
Marie says:
Some kids are more coordinated than others (I have one of each). Skating is one of those sports that teaches good spacial awareness -- like knowing what one's arms and legs are doing without looking at them. With time I believe that your daughter will catch on. Have you taken a video of her that she can watch and see how she looks like? I've found that helps sometimes.