libterm.com The triple axel is a highly challenging jump in figure skating that requires a skater to complete three and a half rotations in the air before landing. Mastering this jump involves precise technique, strength, and timing to achieve the necessary height and rotation. Discover how you can improve your triple axel execution by exploring the detailed techniques and training tips in the rest of this article.
Table of Comparison
| Aspect | Triple Axel | Triple Salchow |
|---|---|---|
| Rotations | 3.5 rotations | 3 rotations |
| Takeoff Edge | Forward outside edge | Back inside edge |
| Difficulty | Higher difficulty level | Moderate difficulty |
| Common Usage | Elite figure skating and competitions | Widely used in competitive figure skating |
| Landing | Backward outside edge | Backward outside edge |
| First Performed | By Axels Paulsen, 1882 | By Ulrich Salchow, 1909 |
| Technical Score Value | Higher base value in ISU scoring | Lower base value compared to Axel |
Introduction to Triple Axel and Triple Salchow
The Triple Axel is a highly technical jump in figure skating, requiring three and a half rotations in the air due to its forward takeoff, making it one of the most difficult triple jumps. The Triple Salchow involves three full rotations launched from the back inside edge of one foot, known for its edge precision and smooth execution. Both jumps demand exceptional balance, timing, and rotational speed but differ significantly in takeoff technique and rotational complexity.
Technical Differences Between the Jumps
The Triple Axel involves 3.5 rotations in the air, taking off from the forward outside edge of one skate, making it the only triple jump with a forward takeoff and inherently more difficult due to the extra half rotation. The Triple Salchow requires 3 rotations, launching from the backward inside edge of one skate and landing on the backward outside edge of the opposite foot, characterized by its edge-driven approach rather than a toe pick assist. The Axel's forward takeoff and extra half rotation demand greater height, rotational speed, and precise technique compared to the salchow's edge takeoff with a slightly simpler rotational requirement.
History of the Triple Axel
The Triple Axel, first landed by Canadian skater Vern Taylor in 1978, revolutionized figure skating with its forward takeoff and 3.5 rotations, making it one of the most challenging jumps in the sport. The Triple Salchow, named after its inventor Ulrich Salchow and introduced in the early 20th century, involves a backward takeoff with three rotations, establishing itself as a foundational triple jump. The historical development of the Triple Axel marked a significant technical advance, pushing skaters to achieve greater rotational speed and precision compared to the earlier Triple Salchow.
Evolution of the Triple Salchow
The Triple Salchow has evolved significantly since its introduction, becoming a staple element in figure skating due to its combination of edge control and rotational speed. Unlike the Triple Axel, which requires a forward takeoff and 3.5 rotations, the Triple Salchow takes off from the back inside edge, making it slightly less complex yet demanding precise timing and balance. Advances in jump technique and training have allowed skaters to execute the Triple Salchow with increased height and rotation, enhancing its competitiveness alongside the more difficult Triple Axel.
Difficulty and Scoring Value
The triple axel is considered more difficult than the triple salchow due to its forward takeoff and 3.5 rotations in the air, resulting in a higher base value of 8.0 points compared to the triple salchow's 4.2 points under the ISU judging system. The triple axel demands greater technical skill and athleticism, translating into higher scoring potential when executed cleanly. Skaters often use the triple axel to boost their short program and free skate scores because of its challenging nature and substantial point reward.
Common Mistakes and Challenges
The Triple Axel demands precise timing and a forward takeoff, often causing skaters to under-rotate or fall due to its extra half rotation, while the Triple Salchow, launched from an inside edge, challenges balance and edge control, leading to edge checks or under-rotation errors. Common mistakes for the Triple Axel include inadequate knee bend and poor air position, whereas the Triple Salchow frequently suffers from insufficient toe-pick engagement and weak jump height. Mastery of proper edge use and rotational speed is crucial in overcoming the distinct challenges posed by each jump's unique mechanics.
Famous Skaters Who Landed Each Jump
Midori Ito revolutionized figure skating by becoming the first woman to land a triple axel in competition, a feat later matched by skaters like Mao Asada. Conversely, the triple salchow has been successfully performed by legends such as Michelle Kwan and Evgeni Plushenko, with its execution being a cornerstone of many winning routines. While the triple axel is notable for its difficulty and forward takeoff, the triple salchow remains integral to technical programs for skaters across all competitive levels.
Training Techniques for Mastery
Mastering the triple axel requires explosive forward takeoff drills and strength conditioning targeting quad and hamstring muscles to achieve the necessary 3.5 rotations in the air. Triple salchow training emphasizes edge control and precise timing on the inside edge, incorporating off-ice jump simulations and balance exercises to perfect launch mechanics. Both jumps benefit from video analysis and repetitive practice to engrain muscle memory and enhance rotational speed.
Injury Risks and Safety Considerations
The Triple Axel demands a forward takeoff and 3.5 rotations, increasing rotational velocity and height, thereby elevating the risk of falls and stress injuries in the knees and ankles. The Triple Salchow, with a backward takeoff and 3 rotations, generally produces lower rotational force, reducing impact-related injury hazards but still posing risks to the lower limbs during landing. Skaters must prioritize strength training, proper technique, and gradual progression for both jumps to mitigate concussions, ligament strains, and overuse injuries associated with high-impact landings.
Impact on Figure Skating Competitions
The triple axel, with its 3.5 revolutions and forward takeoff, challenges skaters to demonstrate exceptional athleticism and technical precision, often serving as a decisive element in figure skating competitions. The triple salchow, featuring 3 rotations and a backward inside edge takeoff, is a fundamental jump that provides consistency and technical base value but carries less scoring weight compared to the triple axel. Mastery of the triple axel can significantly elevate a skater's competitive standing due to its higher difficulty and scoring potential under the ISU Judging System.
Triple axel Infographic
