Req 2a11 — 180° Turn Around Cone

This requirement tests your ability to control a two-foot glide through a turn. Starting from forward speed, you will drop into a two-foot glide and steer around a cone in a full half-circle — once clockwise (turning right) and once counterclockwise (turning left).

How to Execute a Two-Foot Glide Turn

1. Build speed. Take 4–6 strong forward strokes to build comfortable skating speed.
2. Set feet parallel. Bring feet to a shoulder-width parallel stance and begin gliding forward on two feet.
3. Tilt and steer. To turn right, apply pressure to the right inside edge and the left outside edge simultaneously — this creates a slight right lean. Your body tilts gently in the direction of the turn.
4. Curve around the cone. Maintain that edge pressure throughout the 180° arc. Your body should feel like it is leaning slightly inward toward the cone.
5. Complete the turn. After 180°, you will be heading back the way you came. Straighten your edges to exit the turn.
6. Repeat the full sequence to the left.

Placement

The cone is set at a distance your counselor chooses. Typically you set up 20–30 feet away, build speed, and enter the turn a body-length before the cone so the cone ends up inside your arc.

Common Mistakes

Feet spreading during the turn. If your feet wander apart in the turn, focus on keeping them shoulder-width — the turn happens through edge lean, not foot spreading.

Stepping instead of gliding. The requirement specifies a glide — both feet stay on the ice throughout. If you are picking feet up and stepping through the turn, practice flattening your feet and relying on edge pressure alone.

Losing speed. If you are decelerating too fast in the turn, you may be pressing too hard into the ice. A smooth edge lean, not a skid, is what curves you.

Official Resources