This article begins by talking about the blocks that skaters experience. One day a skater can do an element, then the next they can’t even fully attempt it. It frustrates the skater and the coach. The author explains that blocks come from out of control thinking, a “loose mind”. She says that this could be from fear, pressure, or the skater not feeling ready. These are all signs of a lack of confidence and it is important coaches see it right away so they can fix it.
As the article continues she explains that there are 3 important steps to fixing a block. The first two are progressions and repetition. The element should be broken down to easier pieces and these pieces should be repeated again and again. This will help the skater to gain confidence and correct bad habits. Keep increasing the difficulty of the progressions as the skater becomes more confident. These steps not only help take down a block but they also train the skaters to progress and keep working, not to just give up.
To continue the author tells about the hardest part about breaking the block which id the mental aspect. She says there are 3 mental tools to use: mental choreography, visualization, and anchors. The mental choreography is key words the skater can say to themselves as the go into the element. These words will remind the skater of the important aspects of the jump to keep them focused. Visualization is when the skater sees themselves doing the element perfectly. She states that what you think is what you do. The anchors are confidence builders, positive thoughts the skater uses to keep themselves going. She states that the mental aspect of block breaking is often not used even though it is extremely important.
In conclusion, she says that breaking the block is possible! It is important for coaches and skaters to stay positive and don’t stress. Blocks happen to everyone, but once you learn how to break it, it can’t break you.
I completely agree with this article from my experience as both a skater and a coach. Blocks are extremely frustrating and can break even the best skaters. It is so important to get rid of them as soon as possible and the tools this author gives are great. I love that there was so much emphasis on the mental part of breaking down the block. A lot of people don’t realize that skating is as much of a mental sport as a physical one and without a positive attitude your goals will be so difficult to reach. I chose this article because I think it is so important for all skaters and coaches to be aware of blocks and how to fix them. Not only will this help improve skating but it will help with all aspects of a skaters life by giving them confidence and the tools to keep themselves going through hard times.