The Professional Skater's Magazine Publishes Dr. Miczak's Nutrition Article
Mood:
lyrical
Now Playing: Choreographing a Skating Program to Music
Greetings Everyone,
The current November-December edition of the Professional Skaters Association official magazine, The Professional Skater, has published my article, "Why Figure Skaters Have Better Figures". The article was geared towards helping coaches through up to date training videos, the latest most comfortable boots, proper stretching and soothing sore muscles. Information provided in this article can also be found in my next book, The New Woman's Herbal & Nutritional Guide published by Lotus Press and due out in 2004. It also contains an extensive chapter on skating for fitness. Click on the magazine below and it will take you to the Professional Skater's Association homepage:
Right now, our super skatewear model, Magda is very busy working on her Winter Exhibition program. She and coach Reiss went through it several times today and she knows her steps, turns and where she needs to be on the ice at specific points in the music.
Just what goes into choreographing a good ice program? Well, judges as well as the audience are looking for
"the complete package". This means for ladies, neat hair with minimal ornaments. An appealing outfit, tasteful yet not gaudy. Over the boot tights are often used to give a longer leg line and cover minor boot scuffs. Dancability, strong body lines and flow with feeling for the music. Classical elegance prevails in the most memorable programs today and many skaters are returning to them.
First you'll need to start with good music from a
professional music editor such as Dave Hurwitz of ClassicsToday.com who specially did Magda's music for her program, (See the Classics Today link to your left). Much precious time is wasted pouring over pieces of music, splicing them together and still ending up with a mediocre result. Have a professional like Mr. Hurwitz do it for you. This makes it easier for the coach to then focus soley on choreography. The style of music will likewise dictate the movements. Top level choreographers like Dr. Ricky Harris have written many books on the subject to assist coaches and skaters alike. Dr. Harris' latest offering,
Coach's Manual: Choreography and Style for Skaters, was published in June with a forward by Coach's Hall of Fame inductee, Frank Carroll. Ann Margaret Frei has videos with manuals particually
The Magic of Style which shows ballet, lyrical and jazz arm movements to go along with 3 turns, jumps and spins. Complete reviews of both works will be available at Suite 101's Figure Skating Guide. Check out the upcoming article as well for insider secrets! Having all of these elements helps you to put together a well rounded package for an enjoyable and equally successful program.
Warmest wishes,
Dr. Marie Miczak
Editor-Suite 101's Figure Skating Guide
PHOTO: Magda is ready to go on the ice and practice her Winter Exhibition program. Red Velvet Dress and Peacock Blue wheeled pullman skate bag, courtesy of Jerry's Skate World.