Req 2a12 — Forward Crossovers

Forward crossovers are how skaters maintain and build speed while turning. Instead of gliding through a curve, you actively cross one foot over the other to push through each arc. Performing them in a figure-eight pattern means completing a full circle to one side, then reversing through a full circle to the other side.

How Forward Crossovers Work

When turning to the right, your body leans into the right curve:

1. Left foot crosses over the right. Pick the left foot up and set it down across and in front of the right foot, pushing through the outside edge of the left blade.
2. Right foot steps under. The right foot simultaneously steps out to the right to become the new outside foot.
3. Alternate. Keep crossing left over right in a smooth, rhythmic rhythm as you travel around the circle.

The crossing motion provides continuous forward push — each cross-step generates power that keeps your speed up through the curve.

For a left circle, reverse the feet: right crosses over left.

The Figure-Eight Pattern

A figure eight consists of two circles sharing a center point:

• Skate a complete circle (360°) turning in one direction, then pass through the center point.
• Begin the second circle in the opposite direction.
• Complete that circle to return to the starting point.

Your counselor will assess whether your crossovers show reasonable rhythm and edge control — they do not need to be competition-level quality.

Building the Skill

If crossovers are new to you:

1. First practice the lean and glide through a circle without crossing — just step wide on the outside foot.
2. Then add the cross: step the inside foot over the outside foot in a slow, deliberate motion.
3. Gradually speed up the rhythm until the two steps blend into a smooth crossing pattern.

Official Resources